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 people, and how that empathy now runs through everything she does.We explore the practical realities behind monumental work – how commissions often begin with proposals and models, how funding can take time to piece together, and why public sculpture is rarely as straightforward as it looks from the outside. Isabel describes the relationship-shift that happens when you work at architectonic sizes (including a major work for Beijing Olympic Park), and the sheer physicality involved – fabrication, transport, teams, and decision-making at scale.We also talk materials and process – bronze, steel, surface, patina, and how time and weather change a sculpture’s presence – alongside the artists who’ve influenced her. And throughout, a clear thread emerges: Isabel’s belief that art is for everybody, and that access to excellent training shouldn’t be limited to those who already have a way in. That ethos sits at the heart of her outreach and inreach work, and it’s also why she launched the London Sculpture Prize – to create more opportunities for sculptors internationally.Links mentioned in this episode* Claire Hankey – Where the Art Began podcast: * Women in Art Prize* Arch Bronze* London Sculpture PrizeCourtesy images (used with permission)Unless otherwise stated, the following images are reproduced courtesy of Hampstead School of Art (HSoA) / the artist / the photographer.Courtesy of Hampstead School of Art (HSoA)* Isabel Langtry with Pop* Hampstead School of Art (building / interior images)* Isabel Langtry unveiling Gravity (Riyadh)* Performance (Andes River, Chile)* Isabel Langtry performance (Spain)* Isabel Langtry with Morphini (Fuerteventura)* Alan Gouk (portrait)* Alan Gouk (painting)* Isabel with Fae* Isabel studio in Hampstead church* Bliss (Beijing)* Serin (Riyadh)* Fae (London)* Petals (Kidderpore Gardens)* Francisco Gazitúa (portrait – if used)* Prado Park, Chile* Tres / Brook Green, London* Isabel in the studio* Isabel drilling Gravity in Riyadh* Isabel with sculpture Gravity,Riyadh* Isabel with Petals* Maquette for Bliss* Pop (Berkeley Square) – multiple stages / angles* Petals – Majorca / in progress* Pop in two pieces* Drilling Gravity in Riyadh* Pop in progress (Hampstead studio)Courtesy of Isabel Langtry* Isabel’s parents in Lagos* Isabel performance art image(s) (Spain)* Isabel as an undergraduate (portrait)Courtesy of Inno Drinks* Inno Drinks images (product / branding)* Isabel with Yulia (Inno Drinks)Permission of the artist* Marco Paniz – Madame Gènée (London Sculpture Prize related visuals)Lindsey Tyson / personal photographs* Hampstead School of Art (photographs) – © Lindsey Tyson* Colours of the Sea (prize-winning exhibition at HSoA) – © Lindsey Tyson* Isabel and Lindsey selfie – © Lindsey TysonSumi Perera * Lindsey Tyson in front of Wednesday (Women in Art Prize) – photo © Sumi Perera* Lindsey Tyson with Sumi Perera and HSoA Trustee Wendy McKinnon – photo © Sumi PereraBarbara Hepworth (editorial / contextual reference)Barbara Hepworth images used briefly for editorial/contextual reference:* Barbara Hepworth, Mother and Child (1934). Image © Bowness / Hepworth Estate – photo: Tate.* Barbara Hepworth working on Oval Form (Trezion), St Ives (1963). Photograph: Val Wilmer – © Bowness / Hepworth Estate.Henry Moore (copyrighted)* Henry Moore, Recumbent Figure (1938). © The Henry Moore Foundation. All Rights Reserved. DACS 2025. Image credit: Tate.Source: https://contemporaryartsociety.org/objects/recumbent-figure-1938Public domain / Open Access museum imagesThe Metropolitan Museum of Art (Open Access / Public Domain)* Standing female figure, Tala-Tonalá (Jalisco, West Mexico), 300 BCE–300 CE. The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Open Access (Public Domain).Source: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/318993* Beaded figure, Yoruba artist (Nigeria), wood and glass beads. The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Open Access (Public Domain).* Twin Figure (Ibeji), Yoruba peoples (Nigeria), 19th–20th century. The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Open Access (Public Domain).Source: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/311121Wikimedia Commons / Geograph (Creative Commons)Lagos / Nigeria (1970s)* “A road in southern Nigeria from Lagos to the north – palms seen through the windshield (1970–73).” Photo: Aart Rietveld – via African Studies Centre Leiden / Wikimedia Commons.Hanging fruit* Mango fruits hanging from a tree – photo by Mihailo Gospodnetic, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mangoes_on_tree.jpgBenin Bronzes* Benin Bronze plaque (Kingdom of Benin, 16th century). Photo via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Benin_Bronzes_at_the_British_Museum_2.jpgHull docks* William Wright Dock, Kingston upon Hull – photo by Bernard Sharp, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (Geograph).Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:William_Wright_Dock,_Kingston_upon_Hull_-_geograph.org.uk_-_5049080.jpgFerens Art Gallery* Ferens Art Gallery, Queen Victoria Square, Hull – photo by Peter Church, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (Geograph).Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ferens_Art_Gallery,_Queen_Victoria_Square,_Hull_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1067215.jpg* Ferens Art Gallery, Hull – photo by Keith D, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ferens_Art_Gallery.jpgHull School of Art & Design* Hull School of Art and Design, Hull – photo by Richard Webb, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Geograph / Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hull_School_of_Art_and_Design_-_geograph.org.uk_-_957870.jpgStonehenge* Stonehenge – photo by Balou46, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:GB-stonehenge-06.jpgVenus of Willendorf* Venus of Willendorf (front view) – photo by MatthiasKabel, CC BY 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Venus_of_Willendorf_frontview.jpgErnst Barlach* Ernst Barlach, Spaziergänger (wood sculpture) – public domain image via Wikimedia Commons.Isamu Noguchi* Isamu Noguchi (photo by Jun Miki, c. 1950–51) – Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.Anthony Caro* Photo by Andrew Dunn (2004), depicting Anthony Caro – Dream City (1996). CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Caro_DreamCity_1996.jpgKatherine Gili* Katherine Gili in her studio (2017) – photograph by Cameron Amiri. CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Katherine_Gili_in_her_studio,_2017.jpgCentral YMCA London* “Central London YMCA, Great Russell Street” – Stephen Richards (Geograph), CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Central_London_YMCA,_Great_Russell_Street_-_geograph.org.uk_-_2649878.jpgAltab Ali Park, Whitechapel* “Altab Ali Park, Whitechapel” – Stephen McKay, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (Geograph).Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Altab_Ali_Park,_Whitechapel_-_geograph.org.uk_-_758890.jpgHammersmith Art College* “Hammersmith West London College, Talgarth Road W14” – Robin Sones (Geograph), CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hammersmith_West_London_College,_Talgarth_Road_W14_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1288255.jpgWhitechapel Gallery (Geograph)* “Whitechapel Art Gallery” – photo © Peter Trimming (Geograph), CC BY-SA 2.0.Source: https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/3805303St Martin’s School of Art (building images)* St Martin’s School of Art building (historic), London – via Wikimedia Commons.* St Martin’s School of Art building (historic), London – photograph by A. Powers, via Wikimedia Commons.(No… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 starting – without waiting for the ‘right time.’ Join us for an inspiring discussion on creativity, resilience, and artistic freedom. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 writing, photography and textiles, and the ways she finds meaning through her craft.Julie BancroftSubstackInstagramLindsey TysonWebInstagram: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 of intuition in the creative process. A fascinating insight into the mind of an artist, curator, and collaborator!Court SpencerWebThe Art CourtInstagramLindsey TysonWeb Instagram: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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-curator relationship. If you're curious about the behind-the-scenes of curation, this episode is packed with valuable insights!Court SpencerWebThe Art CourtInstagramLindsey TysonWeb Instagram: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 her career.Court SpencerWebThe Art CourtInstagramLindsey TysonWeb Instagram: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 staying true to one's artistic vision. We also discuss competitions, gallery representation, and the role of exhibitions in building an artist’s career. Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply fascinated by the art world, this episode offers valuable insights into the dedication and passion behind Hester’s work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 tradition with innovation. She reflects on the importance of observation, her preference for oils, and how she strives for economy in her brushwork – allowing her paintings to retain both expressive energy and a strong connection to the natural world.Throughout the conversation, Hester also discusses the challenges and rewards of a career in art, the impact of teaching on her practice, and the ways she integrates sustainability into her work. She offers a candid look at the solitude of painting, the importance of sketching in the field, and how she continuously challenges her understanding of representation. Whether you're an artist yourself or simply fascinated by the creative process, this episode provides a compelling glimpse into the mind of a painter dedicated to both craft and experimentation.Hester holds regular in-person and online workshops. See her website for more information.She is also the author of Tate: Sketch Club: Life Drawing (ISBN-13: 978-1781576540), a practical and inspiring guide to life drawing, published in collaboration with Tate. The book explores techniques, exercises, and insights to help artists of all levels refine their skills.Find Hester on:WebsiteInstagramFacebookFind Lindsey on:WebsiteInstagramFind The Inquisitive Artist on:SpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeInstagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 Scarborough. Joined by Jacqui Barrowcliffe and Paul Bonomini, we offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenging selection process, discussing what makes artwork stand out, common mistakes artists make when applying, and how decisions are made. Whether you're an artist submitting to open exhibitions or just curious about the curation process, this episode provides valuable insights into the world of art selection.The OPOWebJacquie Barrowcliffe - Artist and OPO TrusteeWebInstagramPaul Bonomini - Sculptor and President of the London GroupWebInstagramThe London GroupLindsey Tyson - ArtistWebInstagramSally Gorham - Chair of the OPOInstagramRob Moore - Artist, Curator and OPO Trustee FacebookInstagramWatermark GalleryThe Inquisitive Artist: InstagramSpotifyApple PodcastYouTube This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com

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 of working with commissions, revealing how his choice of size and composition is influenced by both his creative vision and the practical needs of his clients.Cook also opens up about the nature of his work, explaining how his paintings are often born from fleeting moments and memories, evoked through simple shapes and shadows. These fragments of past experiences, whether joyous or otherwise, become translated into his art – creating pieces that invite viewers to connect with their own emotions. He shares how his use of colour, typically sparing but vibrant, adds emotional weight to his compositions, and reflects the urgency he feels in capturing the essence of his thoughts before they fade away.This thoughtful and insightful conversation offers a deeper understanding of the dedication and thoughtfulness behind Cook's creative process and the passion he pours into every piece of his art.Find Dan on:WebsiteInstagramFind Lindsey on:WebsiteInstagramFind The Inquisitive Artist on:SpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeInstagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theinquisitiveartist.substack.com