WHAT'S the difference between an art gallery and the workplace?

Nothing, according to a group of talented fine art graduates from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), who have set up their own company with the aim of bringing art into the office.

'Super 8' is an eight-strong group of graduates from all over the North West who decided they wanted to stay in the area and put their skills to good use after graduation.

Karin Gage, from the group, explained that they are looking for office space to rent in Preston to exhibit their work, with a view to obtaining contracts to 'jazz up' offices and bring art into the mainstream.

Karin, 28, from Rossendale, said: "The general public seem to be put off by museums and art galleries, but still appreciate art. We want to contribute to cultural development within Preston and make art more of a lifestyle thing rather than something which needs seeking out."

The eight graduates, who hail from Freckleton and Chorley among other areas, are also on the lookout for sponsorship from companies interested in helping them up the business ladder.

They plan to create an exhibition of paintings, 3D models, contemporary art and video work in September to show companies what they can do. Karin said: "If they are interested, we will do an 'art audit', looking at their office and specifications, and will create artwork especially catering for their needs.

"We think customising the workplace creates a stress-free environment and shows their customers they are a contemporary business with contemporary ideas," said Karin.

The university is supporting the group through its Creative Industries Development Unit (CIDU), aimed at developing and promoting creative arts and the media in Preston. They are also hoping for help from Lancashire County Council and the North West Arts Board.

Jean Moat from UCLan said: "Last year we had 1,700 students studying creative activities and want to retain them. It's good that they are trying to find a niche in the community and we will try to locate funding for them."

And a spokesman for Lancashire County Council's arts unit said: "It is good to see Lancashire art graduates such as Super 8 remain in the county after university and we welcome this project as an artist-led initiative.

"There is a growing precedent for exhibitions in town centres and a recognition of the significance of such initiatives on the vibrancy and interest that they can bring to the cultural life of urban centres. We are interested in the development of Super 8's initiative and will offer information and advice to enable them to further their ideas," he said.