POPULARITY
Categories
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Louis Wootton-Davies (@LouisWDavies) Louis Wootton-Davies is an artist whose work is shaped by memory, curiosity and the hidden histories of everyday places. A recurring influence throughout his practice is his father, who owned a scrap car yard and worked hard to provide greater opportunities for his children. Visits to the yard were rare, making those occasions all the more significant. For the young Louis, the site felt both mysterious and captivating: a landscape of twisted metal, discarded objects and untold stories. That sense of fascination has remained an underlying focus within his work. The scrap yard existed as a place that was familiar yet largely inaccessible, encouraging a lasting interest in what lies behind closed doors and beyond immediate understanding. Through his art, Louis explores themes of labour, value, transformation and memory, often drawing attention to overlooked materials and environments.His practice reflects a continuing engagement with the intrigue surrounding his father's world, translating childhood impressions into thoughtful and evocative contemporary artworks. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of Big Blend Radio's “Toast to the Arts” Podcast features debut author Emily Renk Hawthorne who discusses her breathtaking fantasy series "Of Mountains and Seas," inspired by Chinese mythology, folklore, and her Taiwanese heritage. Set in a hidden shapeshifting community along the Northern California coast, "Of Mountains and Seas" explores themes of power, belonging, conformity, generational trauma, and identity through multiple timelines and points of view. Emily shares the creative inspiration behind her multigenerational fantasy world, the importance of authentic cultural representation in storytelling, and how mythology and folklore continue to shape modern fantasy literature. The conversation also dives into Emily's writing journey, character development, diversity in fantasy fiction, and the emotional truths that fantasy can reveal about the human experience. Perfect for fans of Sue Lynn Tan, Axie Oh, and Chloe Gong, this richly layered fantasy series blends magic, mythology, and social commentary into a compelling literary adventure. Learn more about Emily Renk Hawthorne and her work: https://www.emilyrenkhawthorne.com/
In this REWIND episode (released: Jan 2020) Gary Mansfield speaks Wilfrid Wood (@WilfridWoodSculptor) When you view any of Wilfrid's works, a smile is always close by. A prolific drawer from life, Wilfrid invites a sitter to be drawn on a near daily basis. As soon as they cross the studio threshold, they are very definitely entering a new world. His days working on satirical TV show Spitting Image was to stand in good stead in the art of manipulating and distorting the subject before him. Wilfrid creates sculptures using Plasticine as his main material and passes on his knowledge in the many workshops he runs throughout the year. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of Big Blend Radio's “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features members of Cracked Nut Creatives, current National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Blending classical music, multimedia storytelling, and environmental awareness, the artists explore the powerful relationship between music, nature, and place. Through their residency experience, they share how volcanic landscapes, natural soundscapes, and cultural heritage influence artistic interpretation and creative expression. The conversation highlights how engaging with nature can deepen artistic perspective, expand sensory awareness, and foster empathy—an essential element in all art forms. From composing and performing music inspired by the environment to creating immersive multimedia projects, these artists demonstrate how national parks serve as living studios for innovation and storytelling. This episode also underscores the importance of preserving both natural and cultural heritage, and how artist residencies play a vital role in connecting audiences to the landscapes that inspire creative work. FEATURED ARTISTS CRACKED NUT CREATIVES * Carlin Ma (Pianist & Multimedia Artist) Website: https://carlinmamedia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlinma_ * Joshua Nakazawa (Cellist / Composer) Website: https://manamusichawaii.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manamusichawaii/ * Sam Paris & Carlin Ma (Cracked Nut Creatives) Website: https://www.crackednutcreatives.com/
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to the O and A Collective (@OandACollective) O and A collective is a collaboration of UK-based artists Zoe Moss and Jonny Fyvie, two contemporary painters merging two very different styles. Bold graphic acrylic meets photorealistic oil painting. The work exploresa number of themes, within their use of characters from popular culture and juxtaposes with highly detailed realistic elements. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Tamm Reynolds (@MidgitteBardot) Tamm Reynolds is a study in contrasts: grounded, observant, quietly sharp. By day they navigate the ordinary with practiced grace, cataloguing human habits and social theatre; By night they become Midgitte Bardot, their alter ego. Brazen, glittering, unapologetically theatrical. Midgitte turns wit into spectacle, exaggeration into truth, daring audiences to laugh and look closer. Where Tamm listens, Midgitte proclaims; where Tamm edits, Midgitte improvises. Together they form a single creative engine, translating lived detail into performance. One gathers the raw material of life; the other distils it into charisma, comedy, and joy. Exist to survive, subvert expectations, and celebrate reinvention. Tamm Reynolds' latest solo show is ‘Shooting from Below' at the Purcell Room (Southbank) from 9-11 April 2026 For more information on Shooting from Below go tohttps://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/midgitte-bardots-shooting-from-below/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Kellie Miller (@KellieMillerArts) Kellie Miller Arts (KMA) is an artist-owned gallery located in the prestigious, historic heart of the Brighton cultural quarter, a fitting setting for a space sympathetic to the art of storytelling. The gallery houses local, national and international artists, with works that speak of the artistic process, where the hand of the artist can be seen. There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists:1. Sarah Hawxwell - @Salty66452. Ava Brimilcombe - @AveysArt3. Milo Hartnoll - @MiloHartnoll For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Matt Murphy (@MattMurphyArt) Matt Murphy is a professional artist specialising in both watercolours and oils. He is best known for his unique abstract portraits created through a modern, non-traditional approach. With decades of experience, Matt has exhibited in London and across the UK, and his work has been featured in art magazines and podcasts. He has also completed commissions for clients around the world. There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists: 1. Sam Telford - @SamTelfordArt2. Kade Tame - @kad25.003. Ryan Holloway - @ RyanHollowayArtist For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.uk Email: ministryofartsorg@gmail.com Social Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Sara Reeve (@sarareevedraws) We are very excited to have Sara Reeve to the Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026 judging panel! As a former runner-up on Sky's Portrait @artistoftheyear Sara knows exactly what it's like to be in a live portrait competition.Now, she's bringing her artistic expertise to @thevenueworthing on 28th March to help us crown Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026 Want to witness the competition live and see Sara in action as a judge? There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists: 1. Tim O'Brien - @ TimOBrien_Artist 2. Chunthu Elgin - @artofit_ 3. Tula Parker - @ TulaParker_Artist For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.uk Email: ministryofartsorg@gmail.com Social Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Celebrate National Reading Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Podcast where we dive into the fascinating world of mystery writing and crime fiction with the Tucson Sisters in Crime who will be attending the upcoming Tucson Festival of Books (March 14-15, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona). Featured guests include writer and editor Eva Eldridge, and authors Marty Eberhardt, D.R. Ransdell, Paula Winskye, and Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski, who share insights into their latest books, the creative process behind crafting crime stories, and the inspiration they draw from real places, history, and human psychology. From the symbolism hidden within mysteries to the role of humor and dark themes in crime fiction, this lively discussion also highlights the power of author networking, the publishing journey, and the excitement surrounding one of the country's premier literary events. LEARN MORE: - Eva Eldridge: https://evaeldridge.com/ - DR Ransdell: https://www.dr-ransdell.com/ - Marty Eberhardt: https://martyeberhardt.com/ - Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski: https://annabartkowski.com/ - Paula F. Winskye: http://www.winskyebooks.com/ The Tucson Festival of Books takes place at the University of Arizona and is one of the largest book festivals in the United States, bringing together authors, readers, and publishing professionals for a weekend of panels, book signings, and literary celebration. More: https://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/ The Tucson Sisters in Crime is a Southern Arizona chapter of the international organization Sisters in Crime, featuring authors, writers, readers, librarians, editors, publishers, agents, and booksellers with a passion for the mystery genre. More: https://www.tucsonsistersincrime.org/
In this episode Gary Mansfield talks to Maggi HamblingMaggi Hambling is a prominent British painter and sculptor known for her expressive, often controversial work. Born in 1945 in Sudbury, Suffolk, she studied at the Ipswich School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art. Hambling's art spans painting, sculpture and public memorials, frequently exploring themes of death, memory and the sea.One of her most famous public works is the Scallop (2003), a steel sculpture on Aldeburgh beach dedicated to the composer Benjamin Britten. The piece sparked debate but has since become an iconic landmark. Hambling also created the Oscar Wilde Memorial Sculpture near Trafalgar Square.Her paintings are often energetic and gestural, reflecting strong emotion and movement.Throughout her career, Hambling has been recognised for her bold artistic voice and her willingness to challenge traditional expectations in British art.To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Calum Hall of Creative Debuts (@CreativeDebuts) Creative Debuts connect artists with brands, businesses, and art lovers - through art rental, commissions, events, and storytelling that sparks real change. Founded in 2013 by Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree Calum Hall, Creative Debuts exists to make the art world fairer, bolder, and more accessible. They're not just an art platform - They're a movement. They give underrepresented artists a platform, and help brands bring creativity and culture into their spaces through budget-friendly, flexible art consultancy services. FACE 2 FACEOn March 5th, Creative Debuts return IRL at Laundry Studios in Hackney, London, for a new chapter of their long-running event series, bringing artists, art lovers, creatives and culture-shapers together once again in a shared space.The exhibition theme, FACE 2 FACE, puts human connection front and centre. For more information on the work of Creative Debuts go to https://www.creativedebuts.co.uk/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ja' Malik is just wrapping up his fourth year as the artistic director of Madison Ballet in Madison, WI, but his path to leadership has been shaped by decades inside the field. A former professional dancer with a 25-year performing career, Malik danced with companies including Cleveland Ballet, North Carolina Dance Theatre, BalletX and Ballet Hispánico, performing a wide range of classical, neoclassical and contemporary repertory. Trained at the Joffrey Ballet School and holding a BFA from The New School, his artistic voice draws equally on rigorous classical technique and socially engaged contemporary practice. He also continues to serve as the artistic director of Ballet Boy Productions, an organization he founded in 2007 that provides young men of color access to classical and contemporary ballet performing opportunities and that also offers training and mentoring.Since arriving in Madison, Ja' has led a period of significant artistic and organizational change, and the results are more than encouraging. At a moment when many ballet companies nationwide are grappling with shrinking audiences, Madison Ballet is growing its own, responding to programming that places contemporary work alongside the classics and reflects the community it serves. Six months into his tenure, Malik also stepped into the additional role of interim executive director, guiding the organization through a demanding transition with a small staff and limited resources.In this interview, Ja' reflects on the risks involved in reshaping a regional ballet company, from extending dancer contracts to rethinking programming and institutional structure. He also speaks candidly about leadership during the in-between phase of change and the emotional, physical and ethical demands placed on artists and arts leaders alike.https://www.madisonballet.org/about/staff/ja-malikHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield talks to sound artist Martyn Ware (@martynware), music producer and founding member of both Human League & Heaven 17. Martyn co-curated ReAnimate, an exhibition of sound spread over several rooms of the National Portrait Gallery where several artists were invited to create sound portraits, as part of the Late Shift Extra events. For The National Trust's One and All project Martyn created What Does the Sea Say?, an interactive soundscape housed within a typical British beach hut. Although recordings were made by the sea, this work travelled around the UK. Martyn's latest creation is an urban soundscape is entitled; Everything Old is New Again which accompanied the visual experience of the Forest of Imagination in Bath during the summer of 2019, where statements made by the old were read aloud by the young and vice versa (a link for which is found below).https://soundcloud.com/martynware/everything-old-is-new-again-stereo-binaural For more information of Martyn's sound installations, past and present visit; www.illustriouscompany.co.uk Martyn is touring throughout 2019 with Heaven 17 To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Let me know what you think and what you wanna hear next.text me if you wantSupport the showThank you for listening!! Like, Share, Subscribe Buy some merch if you want to support the Pod or if you Love me https://cine-ops-shop.fourthwall.com feel free to reach out, share, and followPodcast YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheCine-OpsPodcastEmail: cineopspod@gmail.comIG: just_alvi21My YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoh517UWLGsZ_HyNvg33fog
What if the hardest days in the studio are not detours, but the path itself? We open up about the real fight behind the work—those sessions where flow vanishes, doubt gets loud, and the canvas refuses to cooperate—and why that tension can become your most reliable teacher. Drawing from Rashid Johnson's candid reflection with Carrie Scott on battling the work, we unpack the difference between inspiration and perspiration and why chasing “perfect” kills momentum.Along the way, we trade tools and stories: turning fight-or-flight into practical choices, switching pieces to redirect energy, and using rituals like Morning Pages, breath work, and device-free sessions to clear mental noise. Sun Tzu helps us name the real enemy—resistance expressed through fear and comparison—while Julia Cameron and Nick Cave remind us to cooperate with process, loosen our grip on control, and operate under the “cloud of artistic unknowing.” We talk about repainting, scrapping, and starting over, not as failure but as fidelity to the work's evolving voice.The thread tying it all together is permission. You don't need a bigger studio, pricier materials, or the perfect plan to make authentic art. You need consent to be where you are, to use what you have, and to let mystery lead when the plan breaks. If you've asked yourself, “Have I lost it?” you're in good company—and you're exactly where growth happens. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a review telling us how you keep the conversation with your work alive.The Episode from Carrie Scott with Rashid Johnson.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c41I_sre-UkSend us a message - we would love to hear from you!Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast
For over 150 years, photography has played a powerful role in shaping how Indigenous peoples of the Americas are seen and too often misunderstood. Images made about Indigenous communities rather than by them have circulated widely in museums, textbooks and popular culture, reinforcing narratives of disappearance, distance or anthropological extraction. “In Light and Shadow,” the ambitious new book by photographers Brian Adams and Sarah Stacke, directly challenges that legacy, not by rejecting photography's past but by radically re-centering who controls the archive, who tells the story and who the work is for.Adams, an Iñupiaq photographer based in Anchorage, and Stacke, a Brooklyn-based photographer, writer and archival researcher, approach photography less as image-making than as long-term relationship-building and storytelling. Their collaboration grew out of “The 400 Years Project,” an expansive initiative marking the anniversary of the Mayflower by foregrounding Indigenous photographers across generations, geographies and the full range of photographic practice — from 19th-century studio portraits to contemporary conceptual work.In this interview, Adams and Stacke discuss the ethical and logistical choices behind “In Light and Shadow,” the politics of archives and representation and what it means to be storytellers accountable to the people whose lives and histories they photograph.https://brianadams.photoshelter.com/indexhttps://sarahstacke.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Pure Evil (@MichelleHeron.art) Michelle Heron is best known for her evocative paintings of shop-fronts, which capture the quiet character of everyday streets.Working primarily in oil, Heron focuses on independent shops, cafés and small businesses, often depicting them closed, weathered or slightly worn. Her work is less about commerce and more about memory, place and passing time. By isolating shop-fronts and removing figures, she invites viewers to reflect on changing high streets and the social histories embedded in familiar buildings. Her muted colour palettes and careful attention to signage, reflections and typography give each painting a strong sense of atmosphere. Through these seemingly ordinary subjects, Heron elevates overlooked spaces into thoughtful, nostalgic portraits of contemporary British life. Thank you to Tani Burns for making this conversation happen For more information on the work of Michelle Heron go tohttps:// MichelleHeron.co.uk To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For more than a decade, conceptual artists Jennifer Dalton and William Powhida have collaborated on sharp, often darkly funny critiques of the art world's economic and political machinery. One of their earliest projects together, a satirical telethon staged during the Great Recession, planted a seed they later returned to: What would happen if you ran an art fair where every work of art was free? That question eventually evolved into Zero Art Fair, a real, fully functioning event that uses a radically different contract to redistribute both artworks and power within the art market.Zero Art Fair invites participating artists to place selected works into a five-year “store-to-own” agreement with collectors who take the work home at no cost. During those five years, ownership vests gradually; if a collector later decides to sell the work, the artist receives half of the sale price as well as a 10 percent resale royalty. The result is a system that clears storage, builds new relationships across class lines, and asserts one of the Fair's core beliefs, namely that price does not equal value. So far, Dalton and Powhida have staged two editions — the first in a barn in the Hudson Valley as part of Upstate Art Weekend, the second this fall at the FLAG Art Foundation in Manhattan — together seeding more than 400 works of contemporary art into new homes.In this interview, Dalton and Powhida explain how the Fair's unconventional contract works, why prioritizing access for people who “need help to live with art” reshaped their second New York edition, and what kinds of unexpected relationships and ripple effects have emerged along the way.https://www.zeroartfair.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this REWIND episode (recorded: Feb 2019) Gary Mansfield speaks to Katie Piper OBE (@katiepiper_) Katie Piper OBE is popular TV presenter/personality, model, writer, activist and a whole lot more.In 2008 she was horrifically attacked with acid, severely scarring her face and chest; she also lost the sight of her left eye.Katie later founded the Katie Piper Foundation, helping others' deal with living with such injuries. In 2018, Gary Mansfield created an exhibition called FaceValue, where 30 artists would donate a piece of artwork, and I would deface it [aesthetically] in some way. The question was asked, “If something/one has their identity changed by a third-party, are they devalued by society, or viewed as unique?” The artists' collectively donated the works to the Katie Piper Foundation. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if paint is the vehicle and you are the medium? We dive deep into Jack Whitten's Notes from the Woodshed with guest host Jamel Wright Sr., tracing how a life shaped by the Jim Crow South, pre-med rigor, and carpentry precision produced a studio practice built on invention. From the famed developer tool to a crow's nest for high vantage points, Whitten redesigned the act of making—choosing systems over spontaneity and treating process like a living experiment.Jamel brings a rich perspective as an Atlanta-based artist and professor whose work spans Georgia red clay, Dutch wax cloth, and large-scale textiles. Together we map the long road to abstraction—Turner's atmospheres, Monet's shadows, Cézanne's form, and the New York School's debates—while centering the Black artists too often written out of the frame. We talk Norman Lewis, Joe Overstreet, Sam Gilliam, and the way community quietly powers discovery, even as art remains a solitary grind. The result is a candid look at research, journaling, and “recipes” that transform failed trials into the first real painting, then the next ten that lock in the language.Along the way, we wrestle with Whitten's audacity—“May the history of Western painting die within me”—and why abstraction can be activism: engineering new tools, removing gesture, and insisting on thought as freedom. If you've ever wondered how to balance materials, memory, and ambition without losing your voice, this conversation offers a field guide. Press play, then tell us what rule you're ready to break. If the episode resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps more artists find their way.Follow Jamele Wright, Sr. at https://www.instagram.com/artthenewreligion Send us a message - we would love to hear from you!Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast
In this episode Gary Mansfield talks to Emily Malice (@emilymalice)Emily Malice is one of the most sort-after artists in the UK, she is one of the many bold and powerful women that are rebalancing the gender scale of the once heavily male orientated industry.She is famed for her linear style mouth design, smiling or snarling and showing braces fixed to the teeth.As well as selling prints of her designs, along with her close friend Stephanie she has started the ethical clothing brand FILTHYCUTELDN. For full line up of confirmed artists go to www.mizogart.com Email: podcast@mizogart.com Social Media: @mizogart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For more than two decades, Ariel Fristoe has been at the center of one of the country's most inventive experiments in how theater can live inside a community. As the artistic director of Atlanta's Out of Hand Theater, she has shaped an organization known not for occupying traditional stages but for embedding performance inside civic life, partnering with schools, nonprofits, public agencies and neighborhood groups to spark dialogue and move people toward collective action.Out of Hand's work is now studied and replicated across the country, in part because it offers an alternative path at a moment when many arts organizations are searching for new models. Instead of focusing on season planning or ticket sales, Ariel and her team design programs that integrate theater with data, storytelling with civic participation and performance with tangible next steps for audiences who want to make change in their communities.In this interview, Ariel reflects on how this approach emerged, how her own leadership evolved alongside it, and why she believes artists are uniquely equipped to work on the most urgent social issues of our time. She also gives a glimpse into Out of Hand's next chapter — including a major 2026 national initiative — and shares what she's learned about building trust, building partnerships and sustaining purpose-driven work over the long haul.https://www.outofhandtheater.com/Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Catrin Osborne (@CatrinOsborne) Catrin Osborne is a multidisciplinary artist and photographer whose work explores identity, femininity and the shifting nature of the female body. Known for her intimate portraiture and collaborative approach, Osborne focuses on themes often overlooked in mainstream visual culture, giving voice to women's lived experiences. Her projects combine documentary clarity with a gentle poetic sensibility, resulting in images that feel both grounded and emotionally resonant. Osborne frequently works with her subjects over long periods, allowing trust and authenticity to guide her creative process. Her latest book, A Portrait of the Menopause, continues this commitment to honest representation. Through photographs and personal testimonies, Osborne highlights the varied realities of menopause—its challenges, its freedoms and its profound physical and emotional transitions. The book provides a platform for women to share their stories, reframing menopause as a powerful, multifaceted stage of life rather than a taboo. Overall, Osborne's work contributes meaningfully to contemporary conversations about womanhood, aging and visibility. For more information on A Portrait of the Menopause go tohttps://blackdogonline.com/products/a-portrait-of-menopause To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For more than two decades, composer and educator Byron Au Yong has created music that bridges performance, ritual and activism. His highly collaborative works have been presented by such varied institutions as the Seattle Symphony, BAM, the Smithsonian, the American Conservatory Theater and Nashville Opera. Among his many large-scale projects is his long partnership with writer and rapper Aaron Jafferis, with whom he created the “liberation trilogy”: “Stuck Elevator,” “The Ones” and “Activist Songbook.”Byron is also Associate Professor and Director of Arts Leadership at Seattle University, where he's reimagining arts education as a space of equity, imagination and community. His teaching encourages artists to consider leading beyond or outside institutions and to learn from one another as collaborators in liberation. His many honors include a Creative Capital Award, a Doris Duke Building Demand for the Arts Grant and a Sundance Institute/Time Warner Foundation Fellowship.In this interview, Byron reflects on how his art and teaching are both rooted in listening, whether it's listening through the feet to the language of trees to compose his newest work or listening deeply to students and collaborators to imagine new, more equitable forms of leadership.https://byronauyong.com/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to James Payne (@GreatArtExplained) James Payne is a writer, curator and YouTuber, known for demystifying art via his popular YouTube channel Great Art Explained. His newly released book, Great Art Explained: The Stories Behind the World's Greatest Masterpieces, brings that same clarity to the printed page. It explores 30 iconic works — from Botticelli's Birth of Venus to Monet's Water Lilies and Georgia O'Keeffe's Jimson Weed — unpacking not only their visual features but also the artists' lives and social context. Payne's style is refreshingly jargon-free: he explains what makes each piece “great” through clear storytelling and insight. Stephen Fry has called the book “an instant classic.” For more information on the Great Art Explained: The Stories Behind the World's Greatest Masterpieces go towww.welbooks.co.uk/shop/p/great-art-explained-the-stories-behind-the-worlds-greatest-masterpieces-by-james-payne-signed To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the latest episode of the State of the Arts Podcast, host filmmaker and writer Des Doyle chats with Steven S. DeKnight, acclaimed screenwriter, director, producer, and creator/showrunner behind some of the most influential genre series of the past two decades. Produced in partnership with Film Ireland and supported by Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland through the Screen Stakeholders Funding Scheme, the State of the Arts series explores the creative processes, industry challenges, and new opportunities that both Irish and international creatives face in today's ever-evolving artistic landscapes. In this conversation, DeKnight reflects on his journey breaking into the entertainment industry as a writer on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He discusses his work writing, directing, and producing on iconic series such as Angel, Smallville, and Dollhouse, before creating the hit show Spartacus for Starz and showrunning season one of Marvel's Daredevil. He also talks about making his feature directorial debut with Pacific Rim: Uprising and his return to the Spartacus universe with the upcoming Spartacus: House of Ashur. Follow the journey of State of the Arts here: https://www.instagram.com/sotapod/ Read more about this episode here: www.filmireland.net/state-of-the-arts-podcast-showrunner-steven-s-deknight-spartacus-house-of-ashur-with-host-des-doyle
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Dave Buonaguidi (@RealHackneyDave) Dave Buonaguidi (aka Real Hackney Dave) is best known for his bold, witty, and thought-provoking screen prints that blend vintage imagery with striking typography.Drawing from his background in advertising, Buonaguidi combines humour, social commentary, and nostalgia to challenge conventional ideas of art and communication. He often uses found materials, such as old maps or postcards, overlaid with vivid, hand-pulled slogans that create a playful contrast between past and present. His works explore themes of identity, consumerism, and the power of words, making them instantly recognisable and engaging. Dave has exhibited widely across the UK, earning a reputation for his distinctive style that bridges pop art and street culture with clever, irreverent energy. For more information on the work of Dave Buonaguidi go tohttps://realhackneydave.com/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the latest episode of the State of the Arts Podcast, host filmmaker and writer Des Doyle chats with Catherine Doyle, internationally bestselling and award-winning author of The Dagger and the Flame, The Rebel And The Rose and The Storm Keeper trilogy. Produced in partnership with Film Ireland and supported by Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland through the Screen Stakeholders Funding Scheme, the State of the Arts series explores the creative processes, industry challenges, and new opportunities that both Irish and international creatives face in today's ever-evolving artistic landscapes. In this conversation, Doyle shares insights into her creative journey - from inspirations, to the practical aspects of building emotionally rich, imaginative worlds for young readers, to writing Romantasy books with the City Of Fantome trilogy and co-authoring the bestselling Twin Crowns trilogy. She discusses her journey, becoming successful, and gives helpful insight into how she managed to pen 13 books in a decade. Follow the journey of State of the Arts here: https://www.instagram.com/sotapod/ Read more about this episode here: https://www.filmireland.net/state-of-the-arts-podcast-bestselling-author-catherine-doyle-with-host-des-doyle
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Dave Buonaguidi (@RealHackneyDave) - November 2018.Dave Buonaguidi had literally decided to become a screen-printer overnight. He left his job, in advertising on a Friday, went on a one-day screen-printing course at Print Club London on the Saturday and fell in love with the rapid creative process that day.Dave is best known for laying bold text over found maps, manuscripts and documents. When one of the UK's largest Estate Agents started using adverts very similar the Dave's recent work, Dave responded with a highly amusing barrage of ‘fake' ad's in the guise of those used by the Estate Agents. Whilst now running his own successful advertising agency Dave still finds the time to fulfil commissions and create his own body of work.To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Stefdies (@StefDies) Stefdies is a performance and conceptual artist known for her striking photographic series in which she stages her own “death” in public and private spaces. Her work explores themes of vulnerability, mortality, and absurdity within everyday life.By placing her lifeless body in unexpected environments, she provokes reflection on social norms, detachment, and the human condition. Stefdies' minimalist yet provocative approach merges performance, photography, and satire to question modern existence and visibility To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Where Arts & Adventure summits the airwaves, this is the Ogden Arts & Adventure Show!! I am R. Brandon Long along with Todd Oberndorfer, and we are your hosts for the greatest arts & adventure podcast in all the land. GUESTS: Kase - Utah Humanities - Utah Book Festival Dorie G. - Resident Horror Aficionado, & Bourbon Beer & Books Co-Host Utah Book Festival: https://utahhumanities.org/programs/center-for-the-book/book-festival MORE OAA: https://www.facebook.com/ogdenoutdooradventure https://www.instagram.com/ogdenadventure/ https://www.thebanyancollective.com/ogden-outdoor-adventure-show Thank you to BANYAN1 for powering today's Episode of the Ogden Arts & Adventure Show! Listen and Subscribe to Ogden Arts & Adventure on YouTube! Look for us on Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, thebanyancollective.com, and on the Podbean App for Android & iPhones. DM us on Instagram @ogdenadventure If you found value in this podcast, buy us a beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia OUTDOOR JUKEBOX: Mel Soul & The Heart Heartbeat Watch Van Sessions on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@vansessionspod
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Mark Wallinger (recorded: November 2018).Mark Wallinger is known for exploring identity, faith, and politics through diverse media. His Labyrinth (2013) project placed unique labyrinth designs across London's Underground stations, symbolising journeys and introspection. Earlier, his celebrated sculpture Ecce Homo (1999) depicted a life-sized, vulnerable Christ figure on Trafalgar Square's Fourth Plinth, challenging perceptions of power, humanity, and compassion. Wallinger's thought-provoking works continue to engage public spaces and question contemporary British identityTo Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Patrick & Brody join us to chat Weber State Snowboarding Club and Snowboard Movie Night at The Monarch on November 5th. 6pm. FREE ENTRY Where Arts & Adventure summits the airwaves, this is the Ogden Arts & Adventure Show!! I am R. Brandon Long along with Todd Oberndorfer, and we are your hosts for the greatest arts & adventure podcast in all the land. GUESTS: Patrick - WSU Snowboard Club Brody - WSU Snowboard Club MORE OAA: https://www.facebook.com/ogdenoutdooradventure https://www.instagram.com/ogdenadventure/ https://www.thebanyancollective.com/ogden-outdoor-adventure-show Thank you to BANYAN1 for powering today's Episode of the Ogden Arts & Adventure Show! Listen and Subscribe to Ogden Arts & Adventure on YouTube! Look for us on Facebook, Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, thebanyancollective.com, and on the Podbean App for Android & iPhones. DM us on Instagram @ogdenadventure If you found value in this podcast, buy us a beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyanmedia OUTDOOR JUKEBOX: J.Ezra Watch Van Sessions on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@vansessionspod
Coffee, rain, and a table full of half-built ideas set the stage for a candid deep dive into how artists actually move work forward in our second conversation at Poolhaus studio. We trade the comfort of endless polishing for a stubborn rule—get to the next step sooner—and unpack how that one shift stops overworking, preserves strong moments, and helps a real body of work take shape. Along the way, we turn useful decisions into mantras, write them on the wall, and repeat them when stamina dips. The goal isn't perfection; it's momentum with intention.We also open the door on critique: how to build a trusted brain trust, weight feedback from mentors versus peers, and curate with clear eyes when your favorite new experiment ranks dead last. Likes are not the art world, and honest notes from people who know your context can be the difference between a scattered show and a resonant one. Confidence matters too—not as posturing, but as fluency in your own language. We talk about answering tough questions from curators, claiming simple choices with conviction, and studying both your work and the person making it.Life intrudes. A recent loss in the recovery community brings the conversation to grief, meaning, and the privilege of making anyway. Borrowing strength from Nick Cave's reflections on grief as an exalted, remaking state, we choose boldness over hesitation and practice that isn't conditional on perfect circumstances. Stock your studio with wisdom like winter coats: books, notes, mentors, and sentences that steady you when the weather turns. Then finish the damn thing, explore the dancing sparks, and move to the next with courage and care.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with an artist who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review so more makers can find it. What mantra keeps you moving?Send us a message - we would love to hear from you!Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Rod Kitson (@RodKitsonArt) Rod Kitson is an artist known for his expressive portraiture and socially engaged art projects. Kitson's work often explores themes of identity, community, and mental health.His distinctive style combines bold brushwork with a keen sensitivity to his subjects, capturing emotion and character in equal measure. Kitson gained national attention for his live portrait projects, in which he paints members of the public in pop-up studios and public spaces. These sessions not only produce intimate works of art but also encourage dialogue around creativity and well-being. He is particularly recognised for his “100 Heads” initiative, where he painted one hundred people in as many days, showcasing the diversity and stories of his local community. His work has been exhibited across the UK and is often noted for its accessibility and community focus. Kitson continues to blur the lines between artist and facilitator, using portraiture to foster connection and empathy. For more information on the work of Rod Kitson go tohttps://www.rodkitson.com To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Mat Collishaw (recorded: Nov 2018). Mat Collishaw was a key figure in Damien Hirst's legendary Freeze exhibition, as well as Charles Saatchi's controversial [at the time] Sensations exhibition at the Royal Academy. Mat has used the latest VR technology to recreate William Henry Fox Talbot's 1839 photography exhibition, even including the Chartist's prodest. In his 2018 work, Mask of Youth, Mat collaborated with cutting-edge special effect designers to create a 'truer' interpretation of what Queen Elizabeth I may have looked like around the time her Armada Portrait was painted (the two works sit opposite each-other at The Queens House, Greenwich, London). To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Kevin Devonport (@KevinDevonportFineArt) Kevin Devonport is a self-taught British artist whose journey from prison to international recognition highlights the life-changing power of art. Raised in Leeds, he left school without qualifications and served several prison terms for drug-related offences. During a 13-year sentence, he discovered painting through a class run by Care After Combat, a charity supporting ex-service personnel, sparking a profound shift in his life. While imprisoned, Devonport earned a First-Class Honours BSc in Sociology from the Open University, shaping his artistic themes of identity, consumerism, and social structure. His still-life works use everyday objects to tell personal and social stories. Based at Assembly House Studios in Leeds, Kevin exhibits widely and mentors others, particularly ex-offenders and veterans, promoting art as a tool for rehabilitation. For more information on the work of Kevin Devonport go tohttps:// KevinDevonport.com/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Have you ever looked at your work-in-progress and thought it was absolutely hideous? According to acclaimed sculptor Arlene Shechet, that's exactly where the magic happens.In this eye-opening exploration of artistic process, we dive deep into Shechet,'s philosophy of creation, where listening to your work becomes just as important as making it. The American sculptor, whose gravity-defying arrangements have earned places in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney, reveals how embracing the "ugly" phases of creation leads to unexpected beauty."I have to have a real appetite for ugly," Shechet, confesses about her creative process. "There are so many points where this thing is just hideous and yet I have to believe in it." This sentiment resonates profoundly with our own artistic journeys—recognizing that every meaningful piece goes through an awkward adolescence before reaching maturity.What truly sets Shechet, apart is her approach to artistic control. After carefully crafting her ceramic sculptures, she surrenders them to a 2,000-degree kiln where "all bets are off." This balance between meticulous creation and acceptance of unpredictability forms the heart of her practice. She meticulously documents every experiment in notebooks, creating a scientific approach to artistic discovery that allows her work to continually evolve.We're particularly struck by Shechet,'s description of her studio as "both a farm and a factory"—a place that cultivates growth while producing tangible objects. Her commitment to pushing boundaries by creating open systems rather than settling into comfortable patterns mirrors our own philosophy of artistic development. When she declares, "I want to make something more than an idea," she articulates the ultimate challenge facing every serious artist: creating work that resists easy description and demands deeper engagement.Join us in this fascinating conversation about embracing discomfort, fighting against creative stagnation, and finding joy in the uncertain journey of making art that matters. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just beginning your artistic path, Shechet,'s wisdom offers valuable perspective on sustaining growth through perpetual discovery.Please visit:https://art21.org/watch/art-in-the-twenty-first-century/s7/arlene-shechet-in-secrets-segment/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dh_lDHY0ZO4https://www.frieze.com/video/arlene-shechet-and-sheena-wagstaff-frieze-masters-podcastSend us a message - we would love to hear from you!Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Rugman (@@rugmanart) Rugman is known for blending street art with fine art influences. His bold work often combines graphic iconography, stencil techniques, and layered textures. Drawing inspiration from pop culture, politics, and global symbolism, he reimagines familiar imagery with a subversive twist. Rugman frequently explores themes of identity, consumerism, and cultural power. Exhibiting internationally, he has collaborated with brands and musicians, while maintaining a distinct style rooted in urban creativity and visual storytelling. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
PART 2In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Helen Starr (@themechatroniclibrary)Helen Starr, a Trinidadian artist and activist, is known for blending digital technology with cultural storytelling. She explores identity, indigeneity, and spirituality through immersive art, often using virtual and augmented reality.Helen advocates for inclusivity in the arts, challenging colonial narratives and amplifying marginalised voices. Her work connects Caribbean heritage with future-facing media, fostering dialogue on community, environment, and social justice while reimagining how technology shapes human experience.To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Helen Starr (@themechatroniclibrary) Helen Starr, a Trinidadian artist and activist, is known for blending digital technology with cultural storytelling. She explores identity, indigeneity, and spirituality through immersive art, often using virtual and augmented reality. Helen advocates for inclusivity in the arts, challenging colonial narratives and amplifying marginalised voices. Her work connects Caribbean heritage with future-facing media, fostering dialogue on community, environment, and social justice while reimagining how technology shapes human experience. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aspiring podcaster and artist M'Balou Camara interviews me for a special Maryland Art Summit 2025 recording.M'Balou is a former student, current colleague, and emerging podcaster preparing to launch “Heart Reflex,” highlighting voices of the African diaspora in the arts.Our conversation—recorded live at Prince George's Community College—explores our journey from a classroom connection at UMBC to ongoing collaboration, mutual mentorship, and co-leadership in the creative community.I share insights from my nearly 20 years as a podcaster and host of “The Truth in This Art,” focusing on the value of storytelling, reciprocity, and building a living archive for Baltimore's creative voices.We discuss how authentic conversations, trust, and relational support are central to my approach as a host and educator. I break down strategies for fostering access, avoiding gatekeeping, and sustaining creative independence amid funding challenges.Audience questions spark a discussion on practical advice for new podcasters, evolving media formats, and lessons learned from both successes and setbacks.We close with a rapid-fire “reflex round,” reflecting on curiosity, inspiration, and the role of freedom in creative work.Topics Covered:Evolving from instructor-student roles to creative peer collaborationBuilding and sustaining community-rooted podcast archivesThe ethics and art of listening, trust, and relationship-buildingNavigating independence, institutional pressure, and artistic integrityMutual mentorship and non-hierarchical support in the artsPractical strategies for launching and growing a podcastAdapting to changes in media and the podcasting landscapeCentering and uplifting underrepresented stories and artistsReflections on curiosity, inspiration, and freedom through art
REWIND Ep. 14: Bill Daggs - Ministry of Arts PodcastIn this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Bill Daggs (@billdaggs)In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Bill Daggs, a multidisciplinary artist who weaves painting, sculpture, installation, text, moving image, performance and sound into poetic explorations of urban rituals, memory and community.Rooted in a background as an MC, his visually narrative works blend social observation and nostalgic storytelling across media To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Graeme Messer (@GraemeMesser) Graeme Messer is a London-based multidisciplinary artist whose work spans assemblage, photography, text, and performance. Originally from South Africa, he moved to the UK in the 1980s and built a successful early career in theatre, directing works by Shakespeare and Tennessee Williams, and founding the award-winning company Out of Bounds.Since 2010, Messer has focused solely on visual art, bringing his theatrical flair into the gallery space. Messer's work is often autobiographical, exploring themes such as identity, shame, self-worth, and the complex interplay between vulnerability and resilience. He is known for his distinctive mirror pieces—vintage mirrors etched with bold, confrontational or affirming text, illuminated with LED lighting. These works prompt viewers to reflect—both literally and metaphorically—on themselves and the world around them. Messer continues to push boundaries, using art as a means to question, provoke, and connect. For more information on the work of Graeme Messer go tohttps://www.Graeme Messer.com To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Franko B (@franko_b_artist) Franko B is a performance and multidisciplinary artist known for using his body to explore themes of pain, love, and politics. Active since the 1990s, his provocative work spans performance, installation, video, and painting. Often confronting taboo subjects, Franko B challenges perceptions of vulnerability and the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary art. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Haus of Lucy (@HouseOfLucy) Haus of Lucy is a contemporary multimedia artist based in Sussex, celebrated for her unique fusion of traditional art with modern culture, often delivered with a satirical twist. With a background in magazine design, she made the leap to full-time artistry in 2019 following a high-profile commission for the Adidas flagship store in London. This key opportunity proved transformative, sparking collaborations with brands including Footlocker, Lazy Oaf, Primark, and Greggs. Her work cleverly disrupts classical conventions by inserting unexpected, often humorous elements into familiar scenes. A 15th-century landscape may feature an EasyJet aircraft, or a porcelain tureen might be repurposed as a KFC gravy boat.These imaginative juxtapositions invite viewers to reconsider the relationship between fine art and contemporary consumer culture. In addition to her prints, Lucy reimagines discarded ceramic figurines, turning them into provocative modern characters—like a demure Victorian lady armed with a chainsaw or a cherubic baby dabbling in the dark web. These pieces offer wry social commentary while preserving the nostalgic charm of vintage ornamentation.Working from her Brighton studio, Haus of Lucy continues to intrigue and amuse with work that is both visually striking and intellectually playful. For more information on the work of Haus of Lucy go tohttps://pureevilgallery.com/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Alice Maher (@Maher. Alice) Alice Maher is a prominent Irish contemporary artist whose work explores themes of identity, gender, mythology, and the body. Born in 1956 in County Tipperary, Maher studied at the University of Ulster, Belfast, and the San Francisco Art Institute. Her practice spans a wide range of media, including drawing, sculpture, photography, installation, and film. Maher is known for using unconventional materials such as hair, nettles, thorns, and animal organs, challenging traditional boundaries between nature and culture, the beautiful and the grotesque. Her art frequently references Irish folklore, literature, and feminist theory, creating deeply symbolic and often unsettling imagery. Works like The Axe (and the Waving Girl) and Mnemosyne reflect her interest in memory, transformation, and the female experience. In addition to her visual work, Maher has collaborated with writers, musicians, and performers, enriching her practice with interdisciplinary influences. She represented Ireland at the São Paulo Bienal in 1994 and has exhibited widely in major galleries, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Maher remains a vital figure in contemporary art, both in Ireland and internationally. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Artist and provocateur Brian Andrew Whiteley joins The Truth In This Art to talk about creating work that pushes buttons and blurs boundaries. Based in New York, Brian is known for his politically charged performances and installations—from the infamous Trump Tombstone to his leadership at the artist-run Satellite Art Show.In this wide-ranging conversation, Brian reflects on the early days of his work with creepy clown performances, how drawing comics sparked his creative journey, and why art that provokes discomfort can often spark the deepest conversations. He shares the legal and emotional fallout from controversial projects, what it means to stay committed to an experimental path, and how building spaces like Satellite offers artists a way out of the commercial art world's rigid structure.This is an honest, funny, and layered dialogue about creative risk, censorship, and what it takes to build something outside the system.Highlights include:The story behind the Trump Tombstone—and how it led to a Secret Service investigationWhy embracing absurdity became central to his practiceBuilding Satellite Art Show as a true artist-first platformLearning to push past legal threats and backlash to stay true to his ideasWhy success isn't about sales—it's about freedom and community
Have you ever felt like your artwork knows more than you do? In this intimate, unplanned conversation recorded during a Montana retreat, Ty and Nathan explore the vital yet often overlooked practice of soul care for artists.Surrounded by the sounds of birdsong and nestled in Montana's rolling landscape, we dive into what happens when artists intentionally step away from their studios. More than just a luxury, these moments of pause—whether through travel, immersion in nature, or simple daily rituals—fundamentally transform our creative practice and the work that emerges from it.Drawing wisdom from Mary Oliver's poetry collection "Redbird" and Jack Whitten's studio journals, we unpack what it means to create "not for the sake of winning, but for sheer delight and gratitude." Oliver's observation that "it is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world" reminds us that pausing to notice our surroundings isn't just pleasant—it's essential to developing our artistic voice.We share our personal soul care practices, from morning reading rituals and mindful walks to the transformative power of travel and trying uncomfortable new experiences. The conversation explores how these moments help us break free from achievement-oriented creation and return to our work with renewed vision. As Whitten noted, "Nature does not think"—it simply exists. There's profound creative wisdom in learning to sometimes just be rather than constantly do.Whether you're struggling with burnout or simply seeking to deepen your creative practice, this conversation offers practical inspiration for incorporating soul care into your artistic journey. Take a moment with us, slow down, and discover how the small pauses might actually hold everything you need.Send us a message - we would love to hear from you!Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg