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As a business rooted in Loughborough, Access is committed to investing in the local creative community. Rather than art staying behind gallery doors, it hangs where employees, customers and visitors see it every day. For each graduate involved, that means real exposure and a genuine first step into the wider art world and another way that Access is supporting people at the start of their careers, whether that's a graduate artist or a graduate joining its own teams.
This year's standout is Lottie Hughes, winner of the degree show award, whose two large-scale paintings, 'The Stories We Tell' and 'Moments That Stay', now hang in our offices. Through layered mark-making and vibrant colour, Lottie's work explores the people, moments and emotions that connect us, celebrating the energy and complexity of being human.
Lottie said: “With AI and technology becoming such a big part of everyday life, I've found myself appreciating the time I spend away from screens, getting lost in long days in the studio, making a mess and immersing myself in paint. It's made me think a lot about what really matters. For me, life is about the people we meet, the moments we share and taking the time to appreciate those around us. I'm so grateful that these two pieces have found a new home and I can't wait to get back into the studio and see where the next body of work takes me.”
Alongside Lottie's work, Access is also exhibiting pieces from five other talented graduates from this year's degree show: Abba Austin, Phoebe MacDonald, Madeleine Brooking, Adrianna Wade and Emily Tomkins. Each brings a distinct style and story to the office walls, adding to a growing collection that reflects the breadth of talent graduating from Loughborough University.
Rebecca Cain, Dean, School of Design and Creative Arts, said: “The School of Design and Creative Arts places significant value on its partnership with The Access Group, which has become an important platform for showcasing the exceptional talent of our students and graduates.
These opportunities provide students with meaningful exposure beyond the university environment, enabling them to see their work recognised, selected and displayed within a successful local organisation. Such partnerships play a vital role in bridging the gap between higher education and professional practice. We are extremely grateful for The Access Group's continued commitment to supporting emerging artists from Loughborough University. Their investment in both artwork and artists has created valuable opportunities for many of our students and graduates over the years, helping to raise the profile of creative talent within our region and beyond. The School looks forward to continuing this successful partnership and the benefits it brings to both our students and the wider creative community.”
