Ackerman Studios, founded in 2017 by curator Lily Ackerman, brings together over a decade of curatorial experience with a collaborative, independent approach to working with art. The Studio occupies a unique position in the art world, not tied to a single gallery or corporate framework, allowing it to move fluidly between artists, galleries and clients to create projects that are both culturally resonant and deeply personal.
Its work spans sourcing artworks, curating exhibitions, delivering site-specific commissions, and shaping ongoing cultural programming. Ackerman Studios is responsible for the year-round exhibition programmes at 45 Park Lane in London and The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles, alongside delivering private and corporate commissions internationally. Recent projects include large-scale installations for Memorial Houston Medical and collaborations with both established and emerging artists across painting, sculpture, photography, and design.
Known for its close working relationships, Ackerman Studios focuses on narrative-led, immersive experiences, approaching every project through dialogue and creative exchange to ensure the art feels authentic to its place and meaningful to the people who encounter it.
Why did you want to guest curate for Art on a Postcard?
Twofold really. Firstly, Hepatitis C remains significantly underfunded in the UK. Although it is not the most visible or easy cause to raise, the need is there, and greater investment now can make a huge difference in prevention and treatment. Secondly, I love the Art on a Postcard premise. It was one of the first initiatives to put fundraising on the map in a truly creative and collective way. The idea of giving people access to beautiful works by incredible artists, in this more accessible format, is something I really believe in.
Art on a Postcard plays a key role in raising funds and awareness for The Hepatitis C Trust. What makes you want to help fundraise for the charity?
Hepatitis C is one of the few serious infectious diseases that can be cured, but the work to eliminate it relies on awareness and funding. The Hepatitis C Trust is a small charity making a huge impact, and Art on a Postcard gives it a brilliant platform to reach people in a creative and engaging way.
What were the key things you were looking for when selecting your artists for this auction?
For me, it was about bringing together artists I admire and offering others the chance to collect at this level. I also wanted to showcase a real breadth of mediums, from collage and painting to print, making it a rare opportunity to acquire an incredible work from an artist you might not normally have access to.
Do you think it is a challenge for artists taking part to work on such a small medium?
Yes, and a fun one. Often, artists are pushed to go bigger and bigger, but at this scale, you really have to consider every inch of space. It is amazing how impactful the work can be at this size; there is such beauty in the constraint.
What do you hope people take away from the Summer Auction?
An awareness of Hepatitis C and the work of the charity, along with joy and hope from the chance to see and buy such wonderful art. Also, an appreciation of the power of collective action, with each artist and curator collaborating to contribute something meaningful.
Do you think this auction format supports/impacts emerging artists?
The ask is always just an ask, and for emerging artists, it needs to feel right for them. When it does, being seen alongside such established names can be incredibly impactful, and it is a lovely thing to be a part of. I also think being pulled out of your own practice can be a wonderful thing, and being involved in something greater is very special.
What advice would you give to someone buying their first piece of art?
Go with what you love, but stay curious about what is out there. Research galleries you like, look at who they represent, get a feel for different styles, and then go with your gut. Also, it is meant to be fun. Enjoy it!
How does a small-scale format like this appeal to new collectors?
It is a great way of collecting something that might otherwise be unaffordable from an artist who would not usually work at that scale. It is easy to display and helps to build a sense of personal taste and preference.
Do you think there is a shift in how people are choosing to build their collections?
Yes, people are collecting with care. It is a great time to be a collector, with much more accessibility (even in terms of venues), transparency, accessibility, and many more cultural voices.
