From Hastings Classroom to the National Portrait Gallery: Alumni Runner-Up for Major UK Photography Prize

East Sussex College is celebrating the success of talented BA (Hons) Photography alumnus Luan Davide Gray, who has been named runner-up in the prestigious Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize 2025 - one of the most respected photography awards in the UK.

Luan’s striking portrait was selected as one of just four finalists from more than 5,900 entries, earning a place in the well-renowned Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London this November.

The prize celebrates outstanding contemporary portrait photography and has previously launched the careers of some of the UK’s most exciting visual artists.

Originally from London, Luan moved to Hastings and began studying at East Sussex College, where he found a new creative direction through photography.

“My partner passed away, and I was practically forced to move to Hastings. It was not a decision I wanted to make, but rather an unfortunate event I had to experience.”

During his time on the BA (Hons) Photography degree, Luan developed a powerful artistic voice, often focusing on stories of identity, love, and belonging. His work frequently highlights the lives of people who are marginalised or overlooked, capturing quiet moments of beauty and truth.

“The portrait in question depicts a gay couple. Its message is simple yet profound: regardless of sexual orientation - something many still fail to understand is not a choice but a way of being born like that - love remains love. We are born the way we are, and everyone deserves to be loved and accepted.

“You must love what you do. It’s like being in love with your life partner - feeling that every second spent together is precious,” Luan told the College. “That’s how I feel about my camera. I love it as if it were a person; through it, I open the doors of people’s souls and make them feel human. That’s why my photographs are so emotional - because they reveal real people. That, to me, is what life is about - in photography and beyond.”

His portrait, praised for its sensitivity and emotional depth, has already drawn national attention - something Luan says comes from a genuine connection with his subjects.

“People should never forget to be kind, to love, and to remain human. Without love in your heart and the courage to face life with openness, you cannot achieve anything on this earth - whether in photography or any other field.”

The announcement of Luan as runner-up was made on Tuesday 11th November, marking an incredible achievement for the East Sussex College alumnus.

“Many people laughed at my photographs and told me, ‘Do you really think that a big gallery will ever choose your work?’ I laughed back and said, ‘Yes, I believe I will be chosen.’ I feel happy, but I don’t see myself as better than other photographers,” said Luan. “Every artist has something unique to express in their own way. It is a wonderful feeling - almost like winning a battle in a long and difficult war.”

For Luan, seeing his work on the walls of the National Portrait Gallery - a place he once visited as a student - marks a full-circle moment.

“It is a truly beautiful moment for any artist to have their photograph selected among so many talented creators.”

Reflecting on his journey, Luan says that the support and creative freedom he experienced at East Sussex College played a huge role in shaping his photography and confidence.

“One person who had a very real and lasting impact on me was Professor Giles Stokoe - an incredibly intelligent and dedicated teacher,” said Luan. “He spent several hours after class helping me understand certain aspects of photography. I have great respect for him.”

Luan added, “I believe that photography, as studied in an art university, should focus more on practical experience rather than endless essays that do not truly help you grow as a photographer. Art galleries select your work based on the strength of your images - no one asks about the essays you wrote in school.”

As he looks ahead, Luan hopes his success will inspire other young photographers to use their work to tell real, human stories.

“I am currently working on ten other projects, but due to various contracts I’ve signed, I am not allowed to speak publicly about them yet!”

The Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize exhibition is now open at the National Portrait Gallery until 8th February 2026, showcasing Luan’s remarkable runner-up portrait alongside the other finalists.

Luan’s story shows how much can grow from a creative community that’s close-knit, supportive, and hands-on. At East Sussex College, students learn in small groups, work closely with tutors who really know them, and have the space to explore what makes their work unique - the same kind of environment that helped Luan find his voice and confidence as an artist.