BA (Hons) Modelmaking students from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) have achieved an unprecedented historic victory at the prestigious New Blades 2026 competition, taking home every single award available at the UK's premier modelmaking expo.
The annual showcase, which brings together the very best graduating talent from universities across the country, saw a complete overhaul this year.
Under new organisers and sponsors, the event introduced a refreshed format, a venue change, and a redefined awards structure. Designed to celebrate the highest tiers of industry excellence, the newly consolidated categories now reflect specific, high-level industry demands, ranging from sustainable practices to technological innovation.
Despite an exceptionally high standard of work from all exhibiting universities, AUB students were recognised in all eight major accolades.
The top honour of the night went to AUB’s Abi Page who was awarded Best in Show, with classmate Esther Grew securing the Runner Up spot, as well as The Mastery Award for the highest standard of finished quality.
“It’s an absolute dream come true and it’s still sinking in," says Abi. "The standard of work across the entire exhibition was incredible, and being surrounded by so much talent from all the different universities was so inspiring. To have my work recognised by industry professionals in this way is the perfect conclusion to my time at AUB. It’s already opened doors to exciting opportunities that I never expected.
“I’ve absolutely loved my three years on the Modelmaking course and have had the best time. A huge thank you to Paul, Claire and the rest of the Modelmaking staff for their support, guidance and encouragement throughout my time there. Winning this award is the perfect way to round off an amazing three years and celebrate everything I’ve learned along the way.”
Esther adds, “To come away with both the Best in Show Runner Up and The Mastery Award is incredibly rewarding and I am beyond grateful. The work demonstrated at the show this year was of such a high standard, so it is such an honour to have my work recognised by industry professionals.
“The atmosphere at New Blades this year was amazing and being surrounded by and having conversations with so many creatives was truly inspiring. Every university did exceptionally well; however, seeing AUB take home every award was the ultimate proud moment, it really reflects the dedication, sleepless nights, and craft that our entire cohort poured into their final projects.
“My time at AUB has been beyond rewarding and I owe that to the incredible team of staff that have pushed my creative abilities and supported me along the way. Both the Modelmaking team and my peers have made my time at AUB so enjoyable.”
On the monumental achievement, Paul Johnson, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Modelmaking at AUB, comments, “This year’s New Blades was a phenomenal success all round, attracting a record-breaking footfall and an incredible high standard of craftsmanship across the entire exhibition; the effort and dedication displayed by students from all participating universities was truly impressive.
“For AUB to come away with every single award under these newly refined, highly competitive categories is an absolute testament to the exceptional skill, creativity, and rigour of our graduates. We are immensely proud of their hard work and this historic clean sweep.”
- Best in Show – Abi Page
- Best in Show (Runner Up) – Esther Grew
- The Mastery Award (recognising the highest standard of finished quality) – Esther Grew
- The Pioneer Award (awarded for innovation through materials, process or technology) – Nina Hill
- The Interaction Award (awarded for successfully using interaction to engage an audience) – Rachel Hemming
- The Storyteller Award (awarded for outstanding narrative communication and theme) – Ella Ireland
- The Compass Award (recognising a project exemplifying an ethical, social, and environmental approach) – Lola Lowe
- People’s Choice Award (awarded to the public’s personal favourite of the exhibition) – Dylan Shaw
