Creating designs with distinction

Creating designs with distinction has led to a place at the Northern School of Art for talented textile artist Stacie Guest.

The 20-year-old recently started her BA (Hons) degree in Textiles & Surface Design there after passing her Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Art and Design at Bishop Auckland College with a distinction.

Stacie, from Shildon, had previously secured a triple distinction in her Level 3 and described her time at BAC as “a wonderful experience”. She graduated at a ceremony held at Durham Cathedral last Thursday night.

Stacie said: “The college was a place I felt comfortable at and where I was encouraged as an artist to create my own style. It was a wonderful experience in which I met many incredible artists with different styles that inspired me every day. Being on this course allowed me to grow and not only understand myself as an artist, but also as a person.”

The former Sunnydale School pupil paid tribute to fellow students who gave her much needed support as she combined her studies with caring for her mam Kelly.

She added: “At the start of my HND my mam's health became a worry and I became a young carer. I really struggled to adjust to this but my peers really supported me through tough situations which I will forever be grateful for.

“I still struggle to find time to get everything done between my education and caring for her sometimes, but this has helped me mature and grow.”

And as for her longer-term ambitions, Stacie said: “Career-wise I’d like to go on to complete my Masters degree and move on to either do my teacher training or work in the design industry.”