Local students help transform departure lounge with creative new art project
Students from Cambridge Regional College (CRC) have teamed up with London Stansted Airport and assisted travel provider ABM to launch a new art project now on display at the airport.
The artwork, created over the past year, was produced by Visual Communications students from CRC’s Cambridge campus and Supported Learning students from Huntingdon.
Each student designed a poster-style piece based on the theme of travel, using their own unique style. Some also included ideas around accessibility, to reflect the different needs of passengers.
The finished pieces are now on display in the airport’s newly updated assistance lounge, which is used by passengers who need extra support when flying.
The airport hosted a launch event on Tuesday 10 June, attended by the students, the airport’s Managing Director, and CRC Assistant Principal Jeremy Lloyd.
Gareth Powell, Managing Director at London Stansted, said:
“It’s fantastic to be here today to celebrate our partnership with Cambridge Regional College and ABM and unveil this fabulous new artwork. This project is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the creativity and diversity of local students while also enhancing the experience for the millions of passengers who pass through our airport. It’s a great example of how working closely with local organisations like CRC and ABM can help us build an even more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who travels through London Stansted.”
Jeremy Lloyd, Assistant Principal – SEND at CRC, added:
“As a forward-thinking institution of learning and inclusion, we are always looking for ways to provide real-world experiences for our students, and thanks to the visionary conversation between Louisa Marnoch and Steve Laird, that dream has become a reality.
This project has given our talented artists the chance to create a stunning visual story - one that captures the essence of aviation and travel from the perspective of artists who have overcome challenges on their own learning journey. Thank you to everyone who has made this possible—and thank you to the world for landing on our doorstep!”
Steve Laird, Manager of Learning & Development at ABM said:
“ABM works with millions of passengers requiring assistance in airports every year across the country; and we know how important it is to deliver an experience that is as comfortable and inclusive as it can be. The creation of this inspirational lounge at London Stansted is the result of true collaboration, with all parties going above and beyond to make it a space which will enhance the travel experience for the anyone requiring assisted travel. I can’t wait to see the difference it makes to the passenger journey.”
The new artwork is now permanently on display in the assistance lounge in the main departure area for all passengers to enjoy.