It’s been another successful run at the annual modelmaking expo, New Blades, as several graduating BA (Hons) Modelmaking students from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) took home awards for their work.

Out of a possible 20 awards, AUB students won 10, including Best of Show for Izzi Hopper.

This marks the 16^th occasion an AUB student has won Best of Show at New Blades, following successes such as Ed Allen last year, and Maddie Fuggle in 2023.

Izzi also took home the awards for Best Finish on a Model, sponsored by Atom, and Best Architectural Model, sponsored by Foster + Partners.

"My Final Major Project was a 5:1 scale set of keys," Izzi explains. "At the same time, I put together a normal-scale version with matching objects (people really enjoyed seeing these two together!)

"The model had several separate components made of a range of materials including aluminium, chemiwood, acrylic, PLA 3D prints, epoxy resins, glass beads, embroidery thread. This project used more computer-aided manufacture than past projects and so was very dependent on my CAD skills. Some of the processes used were 3D printing, CNC milling and routing, cold rolling aluminium, moulding and casting, spraying."

Izzi's other models included a 1:100 sectional model of 3 Chamberlain Square in Paradise, Birmingham; a 1:1000 scale masterplan of a kiln museum in Jingdezhen, China, and a theme park prop of a Koopa Troopa shell from Super Mario.

On winning three awards, Izzi describes the experience as surreal.

"I’m very grateful not just for Best of Show, but also for the awards for Best Finish and Best Architectural Model – it was really encouraging to get that kind of recognition from so many people across the industry."

"We’re incredibly pleased with the range and quality of this year’s graduate work," says BA (Hons) Modelmaking course leader Paul Johnson. "The standard at New Blades is always exceptionally high, so it's a real achievement to see our students holding their own with such a diverse and ambitious body of work.

"The exhibition showcased everything from animatronics and programmable electronics embedded in interactive props, to hand-sculpted prosthetics and intricately crafted natural world models. This combination of cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship is what makes our graduates stand out, and it’s all on display in one impressive showcase."

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate I. Hopper holding three trophies in a gallery space with white walls at New Blades Modelmaking expo, London.

A model of a giant set of keys next to the normal-sized original set of keys, displayed on a plain white surface.

Various keychains and model keys scattered on white surface: hands holding green key tag, blue fish-shaped item, red carabiner, keys, whistle, and colourful accessories.

A BA (Hons) Modelmaking student applies a detail to an architectural model on a black stand with a pair of tweezers.

Framed artwork showing four vertical red rectangular sections with grid patterns, displayed with red and grey miniature objects below.

Hand holding green Koopa Troopa shell model with yellow base, white rim, and black holes against grey background.

Wooden architectural model with tiered central structure and surrounding buildings on white surface against grey background.

Giant LEGO minifigure with yellow head and white top next to oversized hot dog in bun with red sausage and yellow mustard squiggles. A miniature LEGO minifigure keyring wearing a hot dog costume sits between the two larger models.

Other multiple award-winners from AUB include Kit Jones, who won both Best Modelmaking and Best Use of 3D Printing, and Inigo Robbins, who took home the Outside the Box Award and Most Ingenious.

Awards also went to Stefanie van Dellen (Best Use of Silicone), Abbie Hume (Best Product Model), and Niamh Sheppard (Sustainability Award).

"We’re incredibly proud to see our students consistently recognised with industry awards at New Blades," says Paul. "Each year the standard of work across all universities seems to rise, so to come away with 10 industry awards this year is a fantastic achievement. Izzi Hopper being voted Best of Show and winning the Foster + Partners award for Best Architectural Model is especially noteworthy given the strength of the competition.

"What’s most rewarding is the breadth of work that received recognition – it really highlights the way the course supports a wide range of specialist interests and career pathways."

Izzi adds, "The course gave me a good solid foundation, especially in understanding materials and processes, and it encouraged a lot of problem-solving, which helped me develop my own way of working.

"But what really stood out was the access to the workshop and the staff – their support and knowledge made a huge difference."

Now due to graduate, Izzi has also taken the next step in her modelmaking career, starting her role as a Junior Architectural Model Maker at Pilbrow and Partners shortly after the New Blades event.

"It was definitely a quick turnaround," she says, "but I’ve settled in with my team and have been learning a lot."

Dr C Holman presenting to seated audience beside "Modelmaking for Industry" banner and "Apprenticeships" screen, with a person in green shirt standing nearby.

Two people with dark hair viewing a giant model key ring with keys and fobs, at New Designers, London.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate K Jones standing behind detailed Gothic-inspired spaceship model on display stand.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate I. Robbins with stands in white room at New Blades Modelmaking Expo with display cases and artwork.

Museum display with miniature dolls, dollhouse furniture, and political figure masks on white pedestals with information plaques.

Yellow submarine model with green fin and red conning tower displayed in glass case at museum exhibition.

Display at New Blades Modelmaking expo with mixed media artworks on white walls and wooden shelves, featuring colourful illustrations and sculptural pieces.

Display cases at New Blades Modelmaking expo containing architectural models and miniature structures on wooden platforms with white pedestals.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate with two visitors at New Blades Modelmaking expo, standing next to a large glass architectural model.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate A. Hume stands by display at New Blades Modelmaking expo with a model pinball machine and other models in the background.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate S van Dellen stands with bakery product models on display, branded packaging, and promotional materials on white table at New Blades Modelmaking expo.

BA (Hons) Modelmaking graduate N Sheppard standing in front of assorted models on display on white pedestals.

Alongside all the wins for this year’s graduating class, New Blades also served as a platform for AUB to announce its brand-new Modelmaking for Industry Degree Apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship offers an exciting and accessible route into the modelmaking profession, as Paul explains:

"It allows students to gain a full degree while working in the industry, removing some of the financial and geographical barriers associated with traditional higher education.

"We hope it will appeal to those who may not have previously considered a university degree, helping us reach new audiences and meet the growing demand for skilled modelmakers.

"Built in close collaboration with industry partners, the apprenticeship maintains the same high standards our full-time course is known for, while offering a practical, work-based alternative."

Also, if you're interested in the Modelmaking for Industry Degree Apprenticeship, either as an employer or as an apprentice, continue to explore our website.