The Inquisitive Artist Podcast

In this episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I’m joined by Isabel Langtry – monumental sculptor and Principal of Hampstead School of Art. We talk about what it really means to make work at public scale – not just technically, but emotionally and socially too. Isabel shares how her early experiences of moving between cultures and not quite “fitting the mould” helped shape her sensitivity towards peo...

In this second part of my conversation with artist Julie Bancroft, we dive deeper into the emotional and philosophical layers of her work. Julie shares how her online fine art textiles degree became a transformative journey, shaping not just her artistic voice but her confidence and perspective on life. We explore the power of self-expression, the beauty of imperfection, and the importance of just...

In this episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I sit down with artist Julie Bancroft to explore her profoundly personal and multidisciplinary approach to art. From burying fabrics in the earth to using natural pigments and mark-making, Julie shares how her work is shaped by emotion, materiality, and a fascination with impermanence. Join us as we discuss her creative journey, the intersection of writi...

In this final part of my three-part conversation with Court Spencer, we turn the focus to her own artistic practice. Court shares her approach to site-specific work, including her Anastasis project at Left Bank and her personal journey back to Australia, where she gathered materials from her childhood landscapes. We discuss how art and curation intertwine, the importance of networks, and the role...

Part two of my conversation with Court Spencer delves into the importance of space in curating exhibitions—how the right setting enhances the experience of art. Court shares insights into her work with venues like The Eye Room and First White Cloth Hall, as well as her approach to discovering and collaborating with artists. We also discuss open calls, networking, and what makes a great artist-cura...

This is part one of my three-part conversation with Court Spencer. We explore her journey from Australia to Yorkshire, her early creative influences, and how she transitioned from design and marketing into curation. Court shares insights into founding The Art Court , working with artists, and the value of collaboration in the art world. Tune in for an engaging look at the experiences that shaped h...

In part two of my chat with Hester Berry, we dive deeper into her artistic process, her experiences on both Sky Arts Portrait and Landscape Artist of the Year – as a new mother, with a five-week old! – and how she navigates the balance between creativity and commercial success. Hester shares her thoughts on working from life versus photographs, the challenges of commissions, and the importance of...

Join me for an inspiring discussion with award-winning artist Hester Berry as she delves into her creative process, exploring the interplay of light, movement, and atmosphere in her evocative landscape paintings. From her early influences in the rugged beauty of Wales to her transition from a structured, technique-driven education to a more conceptual approach, Hester shares how she balances tradi...

This is a special bonus episode for artists ! If you're listening as the podcast is released, the Old Parcels Office Open Exhibition 2025 is still on – so why not check it out and experience the artwork for yourself? 15th February-9th March, 2025. In this episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I share my experience as one of three selectors for the Old Parcels Office (OPO) Open Exhibition in Scarboro...

In this episode of The Inquisitive Artist , Dan Cook continues the story of how his abstract works have evolved over the years. With a keen focus on the meticulous finish of his paintings, Cook describes how he experiments with various textures and layers, such as beeswax varnishing, to achieve the perfect surface that plays with light and adds depth to his art. He also touches on the challenges o...

In this episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I’m joined by abstract artist Dan Cook to talk about his path from working in illustration to becoming a full-time painter. He shares how his background in drafting shaped his style, why he took the leap into painting, and how he makes it all work as a career. Dan dives into his process – layering oils, resins, and pastels on wood panels – and how his ar...

In the third and final part of this three-part episode, landscape artist Kane Cunningham shares his deep connection to the landscape, discussing how climate change, history, and politics shape his work. From childhood memories of the Lake District to his evolving artistic style, Kane reveals how his paintings are not just depictions of nature but reflections of larger societal themes. The conversa...

In this second part of a three-part episode, I’m joined in my studio by landscape artist Kane Cunningham, whose thought-provoking work examines themes of environment, impermanence, and the human connection to place. Kane shares insights from his rich artistic journey, including his early inspirations, his time as a lecturer, and his evolution into a full-time artist painting in remote, awe-inspiri...

In this three-part interview, I’m joined in my studio by landscape artist Kane Cunningham, whose thought-provoking work examines themes of environment, impermanence, and the human connection to place. Kane shares insights from his rich artistic journey, including his early inspirations, his time as a lecturer, and his evolution into a full-time artist painting in remote, awe-inspiring locations. W...

In part two of our discussion, we continue to dive into some deeply personal and thought-provoking topics including identity, sexuality, and social issues, as well as LGBTQ+ experiences and body politics. From her evocative self-portraits to conceptual collections, challenging societal norms or inspired by personal loss, Melody shares the stories behind her art with vulnerability and passion. Plea...

In this two-part episode, Melody welcomed me into her lovely house in Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, to dive into some deeply personal and thought-provoking topics including identity, sexuality, and social issues, as well as LGBTQ+ experiences and body politics. From her evocative self-portraits to conceptual collections, challenging societal norms or inspired by personal loss, Melody shares the stori...

In this second episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I sit down with Rob Moore – an accomplished artist, curator, and former Dean of Hull College of Art & Design. In part two of our two-part conversation, we dive deeper into Rob’s philosophies on art, the challenges and joys of teaching, and his ongoing projects. Be sure to listen to both episodes for the full story! Find Rob on: Facebook , Instagra...

(Please note: as this was my first attempt, this episode may not be the best start for new listeners – wrong aspect ratio etc! I’m improving my technical and interview skills all the time, please stick with me!) In the inaugural episode of The Inquisitive Artist , I delve into the rich artistic journey of Rob Moore, an accomplished painter, printmaker, and curator. From his early days on a Leicest...

The first episode is due out on January 1st at noon. I’m using this as a pre-launch test, so that on the day, there are no nasty surprises!! Wish me luck!! Subscribe to this newsletter, to be kept in the know of future episodes… If you know anyone who may be interested, please feel free to share… :) (Music – ‘Feb 17th’ by Jamie McGarry) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this w...