Sculpture Vulture: Recent Episodes
Antique Bronze
Interviews and Inspiration From The World of Sculpture.
Join, Lucy Branch, sculptural conservator and author, as she talks to sculptors whose work can be found in public spaces. They discuss their creative journeys, their artistic practice and their shared love for all things bronze. Find the show notes at www.sculpturevulture.co.uk and download your free novel.
Today on the show, Lucy Branch, speaks to Juliet Rix an award-winning writer, editor, and broadcaster about the female figures commemorated in London's public sculpture.
Key Discussion Points:
- The timing of the book: Why statues of women have only really proliferated in the 21st century
- Statistics: Fewer than 1 in 6 of London's commemorative statues were for women as of 2021, but more women than men were commemorated in 2022-23
- Fascinating women featured:
- Allegorical figures: Britannia, Justice, and their historical significance
- Hidden stories: The National Gallery's facade statues (castoffs from Marble Arch), the female Ariel atop the Bank of England
- Controversial works: Discussion of Alison Lapper Pregnant and the Mary Wollstonecraft statue
- The nude in public sculpture: From the erotic Atalanta to the natural "Deliverance"
- Funding challenges: Why public sculpture remains difficult to fund despite public interest
Juliette's Upcoming Events:
- Talk at the National Gallery: 21st October
- More events listed at www.julietterix.com
Connect with Juliette:
- Website: www.julietterix.com
- Instagram: @julietterix
Also in this episode: Martin Jennings interview (Season 1) - Martin has recently won the major commission for the Queen Elizabeth II sculpture in St. James's ParkHost's Details : Lucy Branch MA ACR Email: lucy@antiquebronze.co.ukInstagram/Threads: @lucybranchsculpturevulture
Today on the show, Lucy Branch speaks to sculptor Tom Murphy whose public sculptures celebrate the rich and wonderful history of Liverpool's people.
We discuss his artistic journey and service to those who commission his works.
Join us and Be Inspired By Sculpture
You can see photos of Tom's work and read the transcript at www.sculpturesulture.co.uk
Contact Lucy Branch - lucy@antiquebronze.co.uk
This podcast is created by AntiqueBronze
In this end of season episode, host Lucy Branch, interviews British artist Neale Andrew. Neale shares his journey into sculpture, his epiphany moment and his approach to defining himself as a sculptor.
Lucy also discusses current conservation projects and the recent news in the sculpture world, including the repatriation of the largest ever collection of Benin bronzes. Renowned sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro, is remembered.
00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture
00:35 Challenges in Conservation Work
01:37 Upcoming Projects and Public Interactions
02:45 Significant Sculpture News
04:19 Tribute to Arnaldo Pomodoro
06:52 Interview with British Artist Neale Andrews
25:45 The Compromised Sculpture Idea
26:38 First Public Piece and Artistic Integrity
28:22 Sculpture of Richard Hadley and Jeff Boycott
30:16 DH Lawrence Relief Sculpture
31:57 Abstract Elements in Figurative Sculpture
35:11 Influences and Inspirations
38:43 Public vs. Private Sculpture Work
44:13 Wrapping Up the Season
Please support the show by buying either:
Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles ofBronze Conservation
or
Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For BronzeSculpture
or by buying me a coffee - Buy Me A Coffee.Com buymeacoffee.com/lucybranchLucy Branch is also a fiction author, her fiction always features sculpture.
This podcast is created by Antique Bronze
Ceri Thomas—artist, curator, and son of renowned Welsh sculptor Robert Thomas—joins Lucy Branch to reflect on growing up in a house full of creativity, clay, and community spirit. We talk about his father’s mission to celebrate Welsh life through public sculpture, plans for a centenary retrospective, and the importance of representing working-class figures and women in bronze. Ceri also shares insights from his own creative path and his work on his interest in projects like Monumental Welsh Women and the upcoming Rhodri Morgan statue.
🎨 See Ceri’s paintings: www.cerithomasart.com
See the blogpost with images: www.sculpturevulture.co.uk
Other episodes on Sculpture Vulture about Robert Thomas' Sculpture - Public Sculpture: Coalville To Indianapolis
Please support the show by buying Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax On Wax Off by Lucy Branch - at Amazon UK and can be ordered wherever books are soldThis podcast is created by
Antique Bronze- Conservation and Restoration of Sculpture and Architectural Features.
Today on the show, Lucy Branch interviews Dr. Neil Armstrong, who has created one of Cornwall's most distinctive sculpture parks. What began as a simple need for "proper playtime" evolved into Treemenheere: a sculpture park built upon a philosophy.
This is the story of a man who turned his back on funding bodies and committees to create something purely according to his own vision. As Neil puts it, everything arrives "on the good ship serendipity," and that openness to possibility has created one of Britain's most thoughtful contemporary art spaces.
Find out more: Treemenheere
Key Discussion Points
- From GP to Garden Creator - How a mid-career need for adventure led to creating Treemenheere
- The Holy Trinity Philosophy - Balancing landscape, sculpture and planting in perfect harmony
- Learning What Not to Do - His three-month European sculpture park research sabbatical
- The Committee of One - Why he avoids funding bodies and committees to preserve his vision
- Sculptures Must Earn Their Keep - How artworks function within the landscape, not just decorate it
- The Good Ship Serendipity - His unique approach to discovering and selecting artists
- The Serious Amateur Tradition - Pursuing excellence for love rather than money
- From Personal Passion to Public Good - How a private project became a cultural institution
Please support the show by buying Wax On Wax Off by Lucy Branch - at Amazon UK and can be ordered wherever books are sold
This podcast is created by Antique Bronze
In this episode, Lucy Branch speaks to sculptor and Royal Academician, Nigel Hall, who discusses his lifelong passion for sculpture.
Nigel shares insights into his academic journey and experiences in America that solidified his commitment to sculpture. He delves into his prolific creative process and how he has sustained a successful artistic career over the course of several decades.
Follow Nigel’s journey and discover more about his work on his website and Instagram.
Please support the show by buying Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation
or
Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For BronzeSculpture
This podcast is created by Antique Bronze - conservators of sculpture and architectural features.
Today's episode is an informal yet informative glimpse into host, Lucy Branch's, world behind the bronze as Lucy shares her excitement about completing her latest novel, a 17th-century historical romance.
Lucy discusses the spontaneity of creative projects and answers listener questions about her work, podcast, and life.
There is also bonus material at the end of the episode if listeners would like to hear the first chapter of her previous book, 'Restoration Murder.'
00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture
00:37 Celebrating a New Novel
03:38 Q&A Session Begins
04:24 Eric Gill Sculpture Controversy
07:01 Smart Water for Sculpture Protection
09:39 Journey into Novel Writing
15:01 Public Sculpture Behaviour
20:03 Influential Books and Time Management
Younger Next Year - Chris Crowley and Harry Lodge
Essentialism by Greg McKeown
The Big Leap - Gay Hendricks
24:21 Podcasting Journey and Future Plans
29:01 Sample Reading from 'Restoration Murder'
In this episode, host Lucy Branch, introduces Steven C. Barber, an American filmmaker and producer turned fundraiser for monuments in the US.
Barber has raised millions of dollars particularly championing the creation of monuments to astronauts. He shares anecdotes about his journey from documentary filmmaking to monument creator, his unique perspective on memorializing achievements, and his strategies for securing substantial donations from high-profile figures and organizations.
Barber's stories emphasize the importance of vision, persistence, and the ability to connect disparate worlds in order to achieve monumental goals.
Key Discussion Points
00:50 Vandalism and Restoration Stories
Links Mentioned in this section
Robin Hood and Maid Marrion
Radio Stoke and Leek War Memorial
05:50 Steve Barber's Journey into Filmmaking
10:17 Challenges and Successes in Monument Creation
21:28 Emotional Studio Visit21:56 Meeting the Sculptors
22:25 Building Apollo 11 Monument
24:15 Fundraising for Monuments
26:18 Challenges in Monument Creation
28:12 The Art of Cold Calling
33:38 The President's Monument
35:25 Reflections on Fundraising
42:02 Lucy's Roundup and Future Plans
Connect with Steve C. Barber
Lundeen Sculptors
Please support the show by joining me on Substack - it's free!
or you can buy one of my non-fiction books if you'd like help or advice with caring for bronze
Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation
or
Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture
This podcast is created by Antique Bronze
Scottish sculptor Kenny Hunter joins Lucy Branchto discuss the power of public monuments in our fast-paced world.
From his first transformative touch of clay to his acclaimed public works, Kenny reveals why he sees sculptures as "phantoms looking down on the city" and shares insights on the theatrical quality of public art, where static figures silently observe as life unfolds around them.
This thoughtful conversation explores sculpture as the ultimate "slow art" – work that rewards patient creation and contemplation in an age of instant consumption, inviting listeners to reconsider the quiet monuments we often pass by without notice.
Please support the show by buying one of my books. This episode featured, Restoration Murder
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You canfind images to accompany the episode and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today on the show, Lucy Branch interviews Dr. Susan Owens, author, independent scholar and former curator of paintings at the V&A about her recent article in Country Life magazine titled "Time Stands Still" which takes readers on a tour of Britain through 50 monuments. They discuss the significance of some of the UK's public monuments, their cultural impact, and highlight several remarkable examples.
Key Discussion Points
Dr. Owens' background at the V&A Museum and her transition from 2D to 3D artworks
The challenge of selecting just 50 monuments from Britain's rich landscape of commemorative works
How monuments function as "the collective memory of our country"
The cultural significance of controversial monuments like the Edward Colston statue and Mark Quinn's guerrilla installation of Jen Reid
The lack of proper curation for public monuments and spaces
The ongoing debate about memorializing tragedies like Grenfell
Monuments Highlighted
Penelope Boothby memorial (1791) - A moving marble sculpture by Thomas Banks of a five-year-old girl in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, commissioned by her grieving father
Boudicca monument at Westminster Bridge - Thomas Thornicroft's bronze masterpiece depicting the Celtic queen in triumph, drawing parallels to Queen Victoria
Sir Walter Scott Monument in Edinburgh - A Gothic structure housing not just Scott's statue but figures from his novels, illustrating his influence on historical fiction
Royal Artillery Memorial at Hyde Park - Charles Sargeant Jagger's WWI memorial featuring realistic depictions of soldiers and their equipment, including the controversial fallen soldier figure
About Dr Susan Owens
Author of "Imagining England's Past: Inspiration, Imagination, Obsession" (Thames Hudson, 2023)
Recently published "The Story of Drawing: An Alternative History of Art" (Yale University Press, October 2024)
Instagram: @Susan_x_Owens
Insights
The emotional power of monuments to move us across centuries
Britain's tradition of commemorating beloved animals alongside historical figures
How monuments can become meeting places with personal significance
The human cost of creating monuments, such as the silicosis that killed many workers on the Scott Monument
Please support the show by buying one of my non-fiction books,
Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation
or
Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture
This podcast is created by Antique Bronze
In today's episode, Lucy Branch, speaks with sculptor John Belardo about the remarkable Piccirilli brothers, six Italian immigrant sculptors who revolutionized American monumental sculpture in the early 20th century. John shares his 25-year journey researching these master craftsmen who created some of America's most iconic monuments while remaining largely unknown to the public.
About Our Guest
John Belardo is a New York-based sculptor and educator who teaches at the New York Academy of Art, Art Students League of New York, and Lehman College. With a studio practice in the Hudson Valley, John specializes in narrative sculpture featuring multiple figures that tell stories.
Website: johnbelardo.com
Episode Highlights:
You can find images to accompany the episode and a transcription of the interview at SculptureVulture Blog
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculptureand architectural features. Or, one of several novels about sculpture such as, A Rarer Gift Than Gold, by Lucy Branch.
This episode was brought to you by Antique Bronze, specialising in the conservation and restoration of public sculpture and architectural features
The Art of War with Sabin Howard
In this episode, we sit down with sculptor Sabin Howard, the artist behind America's World War I Memorial in Washington D.C. From an unexpected creative awakening in a Philadelphia woodworking shop to creating one of the most significant public artworks of our time, Howard shares his extraordinary journey and philosophical approach to classical sculpture in the modern world.
Episode Highlights
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How an impulsive decision to quit his woodworking job led Sabin to art school and eventually to becoming one of today's leading classical sculptors
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The massive undertaking of creating the WWI Memorial: 25 iterations, 12,000 reference photos, and a 18m bronze relief
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Working with combat veterans as models and how it transformed his understanding of service and art
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His experience navigating government bureaucracy while maintaining artistic vision
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Why he believes public art should unify and elevate consciousness rather than alienate
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The upcoming documentary "Heroic" chronicling the creation of the memorial (releasing June 2025)
Memorable Quotes
"We need to kick them out of the temple and take back art for we the people and make it go in a direction that's about elevating us and about higher consciousness."
About Sabin Howard
Sabin Howard is a classical sculptor whose work combines Renaissance traditions with contemporary emotional depth. As the sculptor of America's World War I Memorial, he has created one of the largest bronze relief sculptures in history, telling the story of a soldier's journey through 38 figures across 116 feet.
Connect with Sabin Howard
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Website:www.sabinhoward.com
-
Instagram: @sabinhowardsculptures
-
X/Twitter: @sabinhoward
Coming Soon
Look out for the documentary "Heroic: Sabin Howard Sculpting the National World War I Memorial" releasing in June 2025.
Other mentions in the show:Dolphin Square: The Most Notorious Address in the UK
This episode is brought to you byAntique Bronze: THE Business in Bronze Conservation
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It helps other sculpture enthusiasts find our show!
Today on the show, Lucy Branch talks to one of Scotland's most important figurative public sculptors, Alan Beattie Herriot.
In this episode, we explore his journey from playing in bands to fund his art, to creating iconic works like the Robert the Bruce at Marischal College and The Elizabeth Sword for the Scottish Crown.
Together, we explore how his monuments have become beloved landmarks in their communities, creating a must-listen episode for anyone interested in public art, Scottish culture, and the creative spirit.Please support the show by purchasing Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax on Wax Off about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as Restoration Murder by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation.
Today on this solo-show, Lucy Branch, dives into Statumania - a time that saw Britain experience an unprecedented surge in public monument creation. This phenomenon reflected the era's civic pride, wealth, and desire to commemorate historical figures. Join us to be inspired by Sculpture.
The fantastic books used to support this episode were:
London Immortals by John Blackwood
Public Sculpture of Westminster by Philip Ward Jackson
The Colour of Sculpture 1840-1910
Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome Back, Sculpture Vultures!00:56 Reflecting on Goals and Podcasting02:41 Personal Goals and Fiction Writing03:55 Career Reflections and New Technologies07:58 Exploring Public Sculpture and Statumania23:29 The Influence of Neoclassicism35:29 Notable Statues and Their Stories43:02 Conclusion and Support the ShowPlease support the show by buying, Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture by Lucy Branch or, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
A Happy New Year Episode for Sculpture Vultures everywhere.
Host, Lucy Branch, interviews Brett Colbert, co-founder of the The Pneuma Art Foundation based in Florence.
Brett shares his unique journey from medical school and seminary to founding Pneuma with his wife Olivia. He describes how Pneuma supports artists and sculptors in their professional development, providing opportunities for growth and fostering a community.
The interview explores Pneuma's upcoming projects, including an exhibit inspired by Ghiberti's Bronze Baptistry doors.
If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, or Wax On Wax Off, How To Care For Bronze Sculpture . Or, one of several thriller/mystery novels about sculpture such as, Restoration Murder by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
In this special Christmas episode, Lucy Branch is joined by professional sculptor, Ben Broadbent, who runs Apex Art Services and has over 20 years experience in casting and sculpting.
They discuss their shared passion for sculpture, the challenges and rewards of being a sculptor, and how their different art forms offer solace and inspiration.
The episode also delves into their personal experiences with specific sculptures that have had a profound impact on them such as, Ian Rank Broadley's Armed Forces Memorial, Paul Day's, Kiss and others.
If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, or Wax On Wax Off, How To Care For Bronze Sculpture . Or, one of several thriller/mystery novels about sculpture such as, Restoration Murder by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
In this episode, Lucy Branch delves into the artistic journey of Jonathan Hateley, a talented sculptor whose passion for art began early in his life.
Hear about his mentors, his challenges, and the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic career. Jonathan also discusses his unique artistic style, the influence of nature on his work, and the development of his captivating sculptures.
Gain insight into the life of an artist balancing creativity with the business aspects of art.00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture
00:35 Upcoming Trip to Dublin
03:26 Sculpture News and Media
05:03 Interview with Jonathan Hately
06:04 Jonathan Hately's Artistic Journey
10:28 Challenges and Inspirations
22:22 The Role of Mentorship
24:16 Jonathan's Unique Sculptural Style
33:09 Balancing Art and Business
40:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
45:30 Supporting the ShowPlease support the show by buying one of my fiction or non-fiction books or you can Buy Me A Coffee at buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
In this episode of Sculpture Vulture, host Lucy Branch interviews British sculptor Hywel Pratley.
The episode covers Hywel's journey from teaching English to becoming a prominent sculptor, culminating in his recent public commission of a statue of Queen Elizabeth II.
They discuss the challenges and criticisms of public sculpture, the role of art in addressing social issues, and the importance of both teaching and creating art.
Hywel shares insights into his creative process, inspiration, and the significance of public art. Lucy also reflects on the value of dreaming big and Hywel's contributions to the field of royal sculpture.
00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture
00:35 Weather Woes and Work Updates
02:00 Sculpture News: Andy Scott's Loon Bird
03:03 Public Sculpture Criticisms
08:44 Interview with Sculptor Hywel Pratley
09:34 Hywel's Journey to Sculpting
18:46 The Queen Elizabeth II Commission
21:03 Challenges and Triumphs
36:49 Advice for Emerging Sculptors
39:33 Conclusion and Farewell
If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, one of Lucy Branch's Books, there is nonfiction about how to care for sculpture or several novels with art at the heart of the story , the latest of which is Restoration Murder - this novel features, Greyson Perry's vase, Barbaric Splendour
Or, you can support the show with Buy Me A Coffee.Com buymeacoffee.com/lucybranchThis podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch, talks to Jamaican-born sculptor Basil Watson. Known for his dynamic and heroic sculptures, Watson shares his journey from a drawing enthusiast to becoming Jamaica's leading sculptor.
He discusses his creative process, the influence of his father Barrington Watson, and the inspiration drawn from human stories and athletic dynamism. The episode highlights his notable works, including the Windrush Monument in Waterloo Station, London and the challenges he faced in his career.
Watson's insights on the importance of technical mastery, observation of life, and the ebb and flow of the creative process offer valuable lessons for emerging sculptors.
00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture
00:31 Personal Updates and TV Interest
03:37 Remembrance Day and Sabin Howard's War Memorial
05:41 Interview with Sculptor Basil Watson
06:51 Basil Watson's Artistic Journey
07:49 The Influence of Drawing and Movement
16:19 Creating the Windrush Sculpture
19:08 Career Struggles and Public Sculptures
23:02 Inspiration and Creative Process
31:57 Final Thoughts and Reflections
35:37 Support and Closing Remarks
You can find images of Basil's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTUREVULTURE
Please support the show with Buy Me A Coffee.Com
You can also support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels about sculpture such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy BranchThis podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today on the show, we are on to the final episode of our first book club book, Bronze, which accompanied an exhibition by the Royal Academy in 2012. This essay written by Patrick Elliot covers the evolution of bronze in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can findall the past interviews at sculpturevulture.co.uk Please support the show by picking up acopy of one of Lucy Branch’s books
Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze SculptureBronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation
Or Please support the show with Buy Me A Coffee
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today on the show, Lucy Branch, continues to look at the origins of large bronze sculpture through the essays collected in the book, Bronze, published by The Royal Academy of Art in 2012.
Frieze Sculpture EXPO is now in Regents Park and Leonora Carrington's bronze sculpture is there to enjoy.
If you would like to check out the personal development book mentioned in the episode, take a look at Main Character Energy The essays discussed today are:
The Bronze Objects in the Middle Ages, by Ittai WeinrybBronzes mentioned:
Doors at The Cathedral of St Mary, Aachen c800Doors at The Cathedral of St Mary, Hildersheim known as Bernward Doors c1015, due to their being commissioned by Bishop BernwardLorenzo Maitani’s, 14C sculptures of an angel, lion, ox and eagle on Orvieto Cathedral The Renaissance in Italy and Northern Europe by DavidEkserdjian· Lorenzo Ghiberti’sDoors, The Gates of Paradise 1425-52· Donatello David withthe Head of Goliath c1436-38 Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can findall the past interviews at sculpturevulture.co.uk Please support the show by picking up acopy of one of Lucy Branch’s booksWax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze SculptureBronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze ConservationThis podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today is a solo show, Lucy Branch discusses her involvement with the restoration of Robert Thomas's sculpture of Mother and Child in Coalville which was featured on BBC News, and her admiration of the new sculpture by Kimberley Sue McNeelan, The Light Shines Through in Indianapolis.
This is the first episode of The Sculpture Vulture Book Club - Lucy reads and discusses parts of Bronze, by David Ekserdjian (Author), Cecilia Treves (Author) and The Royal Academy of Arts.
Please support the show by buying one of Lucy's Novels
or at Buy Me A Coffee.Com
buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
Today on the podcast, Lucy Branch, speaks to Tanya Russell MRBS, about a life of sculpture, setting up The Art Academy in London Bridge and what it really takes to be a professional sculptor.
In the introduction, Lucy discusses her thoughts on how 'excusitus' can impact big dreams, taken from the book, The Magic of Thinking Big, by David Schwartz
Please support the show by picking up a copy of one of Lucy's Books, such as Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture
Today on the podcast, Lucy Branch, speaks to Romany Mark Bruce about his career and inspiration. The creation of, The Brighton and Hove Aids Memorial, a decade ago was a significant commission for him personally and professionally. Romany reflects on the hand of fate and his life as a professional artist and sculptor.
Romany has an exhibition in Hackney in September alongside the publication of a book. Find Out More Here
Please support the show by rating and reviewing the podcast or with buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
Today, Lucy Branch, speaks to Ray Lonsdale, steel fabricator turned sculptor from County Durham. His works come from a desire to create for emotion rather than function. His sculpture touches people with even his first piece in Co. Durham, Eleven-O-One aka Tommy, being adopted by the locals who couldn't live without it and raised money for its purchase.
You can support the podcast by purchasing one of Lucy Branch's Novels
Today, Lucy Branch, is talking to Orna Ross, about her Kickstarter campaign to create a monument for the social activist, writer and patron, Maud Gonne. She is often seen as WB Yates' muse but Orna discusses how she was so much more than that.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTUREIf you would like to support the show this week, please donate £1 to the Maud Gonne Campaign on Kickstarter
In this episode, host Lucy Branch sits down with acclaimed art historian and curator, Richard Calvocoressi. Richard has held prestigious roles at institutions like Tate, The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and The Henry Moore Foundation, where he served as Director. He shares insights into the important work of the Henry Moore Foundation, which aims to conserve, display, and promote the legacy of the renowned British sculptor Henry Moore. Richard discusses the Foundation's efforts to keep Moore's art and influence visible globally through exhibitions, loans, academic research, and more. He provides a fascinating look at the elements that took this sculptor from a revered professional to a household name.
Please support the show by buying me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
Or, you can purchase one of Lucy Branch's non-fiction books Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture on Amazon UK or Other Online Stores Stores
If you like novels about sculpture, you might enjoy one by Lucy Branch
This podcast was brought to you by AntiqueBronze
London's Edwardian Department Stores are filled with sculpture, craft and design. Today, Lucy Branch and Tessa Boase, discuss their shared love of this subject and the decline of these titans of retail.
If you'd like a copy of Tessa's book - London's Lost Department Stores: A Vanished World of Dazzle and Dreams can be bought here.
You can find the accompanying blogpost and images to the interview at www.sculpturevulture.co.uk
Please support the show by buying me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
Or, you can purchase one of Lucy Branch's non-fiction books Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture on Amazon UK or Other Online Stores Stores
If you like novels about sculpture, you might enjoy one by Lucy Branch
This podcast was brought to you by AntiqueBronze
In this episode, Lucy Branch, delves into the life and legacy of sculptor, Roy Noakes, whose journey from a humble East End background to a profound artist is as inspiring as it is instructive. Our guest, Biddy Noakes, shares her personal and intimate perspective on Roy's evolution as an artist, from his early days as an apprentice carver to his deep exploration of form and light, from traditional carving to innovative sculptural expressions.
Our discussion also touches on a universal challenge that many artists and their families face: managing an artist's legacy. Biddy opens up about her current struggle with what to do with Roy's body of work and how best to honour his artistic intentions.
If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features or Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Sculpture. Or, one of several novels by Lucy Branch where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.
This podcast was brought to you by AntiqueBronze
Today, Lucy Branch brings us an update after a break of almost two years.
Find out what has been occurring since the last interview. Catch-up with show host and hear about what's next for Sculpture Vulture.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.
The books mentioned in this episode are Seven Summers by Paige Toon and Wax On Wax Off - How To CareFor Bronze Sculpture by Lucy Branch
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today, Lucy Branch talks to David Breuer-Weil who is a painter and sculptor. His works have been installed in major public spaces in London including Hampstead Heath, Hanover Square, Grosvenor Gardens, Marble Arch and around the world. His work can’t help but stop you in your tracks – it’s not of this world, it’s fragmented parts, it’s out of another dimension!
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of David Breuer-Weil's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
Today, Lucy Branch, talks to, Nicola Godden, who is a figurative sculptor. Although the majority of her work Is for private owners, she has created well known and well loved monuments including Icarus for London 2012 Olympic Village, Sir Peter Scott sculpture for London Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre in barnes and Hammersmith Man on the Hammersmith fly over among others.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Nicola Godden's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Mark Richardswhose list of public monuments is vast including, The Matthew Flinders Monument in Euston Station, The Vernon monument, Portsmouth, The Roger Casement Statue in Ireland, The Big Tom McBride Sculpture in Co Monaghan among many others. We discuss the role of medieval guilds in his career choice, his moral compass when it comes to serving communities and what it takes to create such a vast body of work.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Mark Richard's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by buying one of Lucy Branch's novels about the dark side of the art world or via https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch
Today, Lucy Branch, discusses Protective Coatings for Bronze, in this practical conservation episode. It's the No 1 question we get asked at Antique Bronze along with, How Frequently Should We Maintain Our Bronze Sculpture? Both questions have lots of factors to consider and, there's no easy answer. Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of the sculptors that have been interviewed this season at the Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, in paperback, ebook or hardback, about the foundations of preserving bronze sculpture and architectural features.
Today, Lucy Branchtalks to Christine Charlesworth who specializes in figurative and portrait sculptures. She's an Elected member of the Society of Women Artists, and The Royal British Society of Sculptors. She was one of the Official Artists with BT from 2010 leading up to and including 2012 Olympics. In 2021 alone, she has completed public commissions for Greta Thurnberg for Winchester University, Dame Ethel Smyth, the English composer and member of the women's suffrage movement for Woking and, Emily Wilding Davison, in Epsom - the activist and suffragette.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Christine's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by buying one of, Lucy Branch's, novels about the dark side of the art world. Her 2021 New Release is Restoration Murder
Today on the podcast, Lucy Branch, talks to Charlie Langton who is one of the most sought-after equine artists of our time. His sculptures revels in the difference in attitude, character and physicality that sets champion racehorses apart. He has undertaken major commissions of famous racehorses including his over-life-size bronze tribute to four-time Gold Cup Winner, Yeats, in the parade ring at Ascot Racecourse. His interview is particularly interesting because his area of work is so niche, anyone who thinks that they couldn’t possibly build a business by focusing on just one thing will be proved wrong by his story.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Charlie Langdon's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation
In today's episode, a VERY special guest and I, discuss themes in sculpture that have arisen for us in 2021. We have our say on the 'retain and explain' policy for historic monuments and discuss the need for standards around commissioning public sculpture. We talk about the do's and don'ts of signing away your copyright and when to be ballsy about business contracts - all this with a glass of gin in hand, at least for Lucy Branch.
Merry Christmas to All The Sculpture Vultures Out There In The World!
Today, Lucy Branch, talks to, David Williams-Ellis, contemporary sculptor whose works are inspired by Romanticism. His work is in private collections all over the world and can be seen dominating public spaces and flagship buildings from Scone Palace in Perthshire to the IFC Building in Shanghai, Swires in Hong Kong and above Gold Beach in Normandy. He continues to sculpt both public and private commissions.
You can find images of, David Williams-Ellis', work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog.
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the principles of preserving bronze sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch.
Today on the podcast, Lucy Branch talks to, James Butler, the legendary sculptor, who has created a dizzying list of magnificent monumental commemorative sculptures in bronze. He was elected a Royal Academician in 1972, a Member of the Royal West of England Academy in 1980 and Fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors in 1981. His portfolio includes The RAF Fleet Air Arm Memorial, London Embankment, Field Marshal Earl Alexander of Tunis - Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London, footballer Duncan Edwards, The Stratford Jester and so many more.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of James Butler's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE.
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch talks to sculptor, Peter Newman, on the podcast. Peter has exhibited in Trafalgar Square, the Royal Festival Hall and the Hayward Gallery in London, the Turner Contemporary in Margate and at the Guggenheim Museum in Venice. His work was projected onto the exterior of the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, in Kanazawa, Japan and can be found all over the world in public and private collections.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Peter Newman’s work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Laury Dizengremel, the international portrait sculptor, who is a finalist in the Emily Williamson campaign. Laury has had a full career and is the creator of many public sculptures including Capability Brown, Tony Byrne the Olympic Boxing medalist and Sir George Carteret in St Peters, Jersey. Laury discusses her creative journey, her drive to become a successful professional and her love for her craft.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Laury Dizengremel's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by buying one of Lucy Branch's novels about the dark side of the art world. Her 2021 New Release is Restoration Murder
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Clare Abbatt, a bronze sculptor who has undertaken commissions for Wicksteed Park, St Mary Magdalene Church, Northamptonshire and All Saints Church, Earls Barton. Currently, she has a bronze sculpture short-listed for the Emily Williamson Campaign. Clare discusses her creative journey, the inspiring story behind her entry in the Emily Williamson competition and her love for the career she's crafted.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Clare Abbatt's work and a transcription of the interview at the Sculpture Vulture Blog
Please support the show by buying one of Lucy Branch's novels about the dark side of the art world. Her 2021 New Release is Restoration Murder
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today on, The Sculpture Vulture Podcast, Lucy Branch talks about what the monument to Oliver Tambo in Haringey can teach sculptors about bronze. This is one of the practical episodes in the series created to educate those in the field of sculpture about what to expect from bronzes located in the public realm.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.
You can find out more about the incredible sculptors interviewed this season at Sculpture Vulture Blog
If you'd like to know more about bronze conservation or - if you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, a guide for custodians and creators about how to conserve public sculpture in bronze and architectural features.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
This week, Lucy Branch, talks to Eve Shepherd, about her contemporary figurative sculpture. They discuss how Eve's journey began with a mouse and the ups and downs of a professional career in sculpture.
Eve has carried out many public commissions including works for The National Maritime Museum and a Portrait of Stephen Hawkins for Cambridge University. Today, she talks about her short-listed entry in the Emily Williamson Statue Campaign and, The Betty Campbell Monument soon to be unveiled in Cardiff.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Eve Shepherd's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from the interview:
The Sculpture Vulture Podcast is back for Season 2 and in this first episode, we catch up with, Lucy Branch, and a sculpture at University College London by Bouke de Vries and what's been going on since Season 1 for some of the sculptors’ interviewed in the previous season including Rodney Munday's Work for Project Blackjack, Amy Goodman's Aborfield Horses and Hugh Chapman's latest work, Transcending, made by Lockbund Foundry. In this episode, Lucy discusses, what conservation is and why it's different to what is done on, the popular show, The Repair Shop. She discusses what conservators do, what their role is and why sculptors and custodians need one!
Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as, Restoration Murder, by Lucy Branch. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch, talks to Andrew Simcock, labour councillor for Didsbury East, who had a realisation that there was something wrong with public sculpture in Manchester: there was only one monument to a woman, Queen Victoria. He decided change needed to happen and threw his energy and entrepreneurial mind into getting a sculpture of, Emmeline Pankhurst, made for Manchester.
He's now onto his next campaign, bringing about a monument to, Emily Williamson, the founder of The Royal Society for The Protection of Birds. Andrew won't stop there, he wants to see 50 public monuments of women created around the country by 2028 to coincide with the anniversary of when Women in England, Wales and Scotland received the vote on the same terms as men (over the age of 21) as a result of the Representation of the People Act 1928.
Andrew's advice to sculptors about what it takes to win a major competition is insightful and valuable to anyone hoping to see their work immortalised in the public realm.
Do Donate to The Emily Williamson Campaign and see this important monument MADE
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find out more about the podcast at SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
This is a special summer episode of the podcast to coincide with an important date for the Emily Williamson Statue Campaign: the release of the short-listed maquettes on July 1st. This campaign is to create a much needed memorial statue of the magnificent, Emily Williamson, the founder of the society for the protection of birds.
Emily Williamson watched her favourite species, the Great Crested Grebe, being hunted to extinction for the plumage trade. Appalled, she begged the British Ornithologists’ Union to take a stand against ‘murderous millinery’. They ignored her letters.In anger, she founded her own, all-women Society For The Protection of Birds. The year was 1889, and the fashion for feathers was reaching a terrible crescendo. The society later became the Royal Society Protection of Birds (the conservation charity we now know and love in the UK!)
Do take a look at https://www.emilywilliamsonstatue.com/ campaign
Join, Lucy Branch, sculpture conservator and author, and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.
If you are looking for a new book, and enjoy thrillers about the dark side of the art world - one of Lucy Branch's novels is currently available free to download from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Lucy Branch's latest novel, Restoration Murder, is published and out now wherever books are sold. She tells us about her most recent moment of clarity and what that means for the podcast, who's coming up in Season 2 and when you can expect it.
This podcast trailer was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Philip Jackson, an award winning, prolific sculptor who has created some of our most well-known and well-loved public sculptures particularly in the UK but also elsewhere in the world including The Bomber Command in Green Park, Bobby Moore at Wembley Stadium, The Manchester United ‘Trinity’ sculpture, The Jersey Liberation Sculpture to name only a few. His creativity knows no bounds as he does an extraordinary amount of private work and exhibitions and in that work shows an entirely different side to his creativity. His distinctive Venice-inspired sculptures are brooding and ominous and for me, who loves the dark side of art, endlessly fascinating.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Philip Jackson’s work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from the interview:
Lucy: I began our discussion today by asking him, if he'd always been creative?
Philip: I think I probably have, yes. I mean, I sort of just decided to be a sculptor at the age of eleven. So I suppose you could say that's for a very long time.
Lucy: And so was it someone at home that encouraged that, or school?
Philip: No, I went to boarding school very early. My parents were in West Africa. My father was in the colonial service. And so I used to go out to Africa every summer, but in the Christmas and Easter holidays, I would be farmed out to my grandmother or my great aunt. They were quite elderly so I had to, as it were, find my own amusement. But they did have very good libraries of books. And so I spent quite a lot of time reading. And I discovered Graeco-Roman sculpture and I thought it was the most extraordinary thing that these wonderful things could be made by the hand of man. And then, I think at the age of 11, I bought what I think was probably my first book, which was a secondhand book on sculpture that was being done by people that were actually still alive. So I suppose the penny dropped that, you know, this wonderful thing called sculpture had been done since Graeco-Roman times and before, right up to the present time. And I thought, well, you know, that's what I want to do. So I suppose that's really how it came about.
Lucy: Right. Did you then start to pursue it more?
Philip: Yes. I mean, my school really didn't teach art in the way that schools teach art these days. And so I, sort of, ploughed a fairly lonely furrow to try and find out how you carve things, how you model things, and all that sort of thing. And then at the appropriate age, I was staying with my great aunt and I said to her, "Look, you know, I think I want to go to art school." And so I went for an interview and everything and got in. And, you know, so it's gone from there.
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Jason deCaires Taylor, who is a sculptor, environmentalist, and professional underwater photographer. He has permanent site-specific work spanning several continents and predominantly explores submerged and tidal-marine environments. He's the only sculptor in the series who does not work in bronze, but I can't hold that against him because his work is utterly fascinating. He has a deep understanding of the crisis that humanity is facing with the damage that they're doing to the environment. The fact he enables expression of this through his underwater sculpture is well worth listening to.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Jason deCaires Taylor's work and a transcription of the interview at the Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze, Specialists in the Conservation and Restoration of Sculptural and Architectural Features
Snippet from the interview:
Lucy: Have you always been creative?
Jason: No, not necessarily. No, I actually started my art career much, much later on in life. I studied sculpture at university, but then, after that, I sort of did a whole range of different professions, none of which were particularly creative. But it was only later on in life that I managed to, you know, make it a full-time profession.
Lucy: What sent you off to art school then?
Jason: Oh, yeah, certainly. I mean I come from a family that...you know, there's many, many painters and sculptors and, generally we've always been involved, in some way, in the creative arts. But yeah, I think it was a really, sort of, natural choice for me to go to university. You know, when you're at that age and you're, sort of, weighing up all the different options of what to do in life, I kind of just went with what I enjoyed the most and what I loved doing, and it was certainly art.
Lucy: So, a family, being artistic, who were quite happy for you to do that. That's not always the case.
Jason: No, I was very lucky. You know, I had parents that really encouraged me to, sort of, follow my own vocation. Yeah, some people are not as fortunate but, for me, it kind of really worked out.
Lucy: What did you do after you left university?
Jason: Many different things. It was quite, sort of, an interesting path. I mean I studied sculpture and ceramics at Camberwell College of Arts. And after that, I actually had that dreaded feeling, like, "Oh my god, you know, how am I going to make a living out of this?" I actually found it quite... you know, the equation of taking on jobs maybe that I didn't like too much but they paid the bills. I always wanted the creative part to be free and not constrained in any way, which, I suppose, everybody does. But, practically speaking, it's not always possible. So, I really turned against that and I thought, "I'm just going to try some other different types of jobs and see what I enjoy doing."
Today Lucy Branch talks to semi-abstract sculptor, Simon Gudgeon about his incredible large-scale bronzes. Simon Gudgeon is based in Dorset, and he and his wife have shaped the land that they bought to give his semi-abstract sculptures the backdrop that they truly deserve. He manages to fuse figurative sculpture with abstract, landscape with fantasy and otherworldliness. He's the kind of sculptor that surprises you with every new work he does.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Simon Gudgeon's work and a transcription of the interview at Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new novel, and you're a lover of adventure and sculpture, you can claim a free book from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from the interview:
Lucy I began our conversation today by asking him if he'd always been creative.
Simon: I think so. Yes. I mean, as a child, I used to like making things, and that's primarily what I love doing. I mean, I'm a sculptor, yes, but I just love making things. So all the pieces in the sculpture park, pretty well I've made. And that carried through...I mean, I did law at university and actually qualified as a solicitor, but retired the day I qualified because I hated it too much. And from there, I went into landscape gardening, garden design, and gradually became an artist in my 30s, painter initially, and then sculpting when I was 40. So I suppose, yes, pretty well everything I've done has been fairly creative. And even when you do something like the law, you’ve still got to be quite creative.
Lucy: Definitely. Just in a different way, perhaps not so much with the physical things. And was it something that you felt was missing from the law? Did you need to do something practical to feel fulfilled as well as sort of mentally creative?
Simon: I don't know. I just didn't like it! I mean, I did three years at university, I went to Law College then I did two years’ articles. I did six years in total to qualify. I think one of the problems with law is that you're essentially always dealing with somebody who's got a problem. And people aren't always at their best with the problem. So it just wasn't being a nice environment. Also, I was brought up in the countryside, and being in an office all day really wasn't for me. I didn't like that side at all.
Lucy: And so was there anybody at home who had that creative urge as well, that sort of "making things" urge that inspired you?
Simon: My grandfather always had a lovely workshop. All his old tobacco tins were painted on the front with all the sizes of screws and nails. And yes, his workshop was wonderful. And he was initially the one who said come into... you know, if we went to stay with him, he would take us into the workshop to make things and show us a little bit. He was mainly woodwork, which I'm not actually. I don't really do much woodwork at all; metal for me now.
Lucy: Yes. Well, bronze is such a beautiful material. I'm a little bit biased. But the thing is that I always look at the other materials and think it hasn't got quite such range.
Continue with the interview and see images at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/sculpture-vulture-blog/
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Louisa Forbes about her public sculpture. Louisa blends themes of religion and mythology into her classical figurative sculpture and is inspired by the idea of a connection with people thousands of years ago. She has exhibited extensively and has permanent public works in many places including Churchill and Trinity College in Cambridge, Chelsea Old Church, and St. Thomas' Hospital in London. Louisa discusses her creative journey in becoming a professional sculptor, her inspiration and love of bronze.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Louisa Forbes' work and a transcription of the interview at the Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new novel and LOVE sculpture, then you can get a free copy of one of my novels about the dark side of the art world from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet From The Interview:
Lucy: I began our discussion today by asking her if she’d always been creative?
Louisa: Yes, basically, in a word. I mean, I started when I was little. I was the fourth child, and I think to amuse myself apart from anything else, I used to go down to a stream at the bottom of the garden and play with the clay. And it just...when I started actually producing things with it and presented them, I got a rather exciting reaction from people. So I think that was an attention seeker as a child, how it started.
Lucy: Well, mud pies are always such fun, but I've never produced anything that was worthy of any merit, not with mud, anyway. And so, was there anyone else in the family quite interested in making things?
Louisa: My grandmother, my father's mother was a very eccentric lady who was a Girton girl and studied Classics, but she also went to the Slade in about 1907.
Lucy: Oh, incredible.
Louisa: And she was there around the time of Augustus John and Professor Tonks. And so I used to go to her when I was stuck trying to draw an ear or something, and she used to, sort of, give me the classical basis of drawing. But, sadly, she obviously passed away. She was quite elderly, I think, when she had her children, so she was a pretty old lady when I knew her. But she was very interesting.
Lucy: And so, was there a school influence as well? Was there a good encouraging art mistress or...?
Louisa: That was my teacher, History of Art A Level. So, I did Classical Civilisation, History of Art, and Art A Level. So it took me from, sort of, 500 BC right up to 1955.
Lucy: Covered all the bases.
Louisa: There was a school trip with the History of Art lady who was a famous History of Art teacher. She was absolutely wonderful, called Susana Svoboda. And she took a gaggle of us awful teenagers off to Florence, bless her, on a couchette, can you imagine?
Lucy: Incredible.
Martin Jennings statues have been commissioned by the UK's greatest institutions: the National Portrait Gallery, St Paul's Cathedral, the Palace of Westminster, the University of Oxford, and many others. His statue of John Betjeman, the driving force behind the saving of St. Pancras station in the 1960s, welcomes visitors from all over the world to the capital city. He won the Public Monuments and Statue Associations Marsh Award for Public Sculpture in 2017.
Join us for a new episode and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.
You can find images of Martin Jennings work and a transcription of the interview at SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from the interview:
Lucy: Today, I began our chat by asking him if he'd always been creative.
Martin: Well, that's a big, open question. I think we all are from birth, and I have, I suppose, been so in different ways. I went to university, studied English literature, and looked at art literature, as it were, from the outside before I went to art school to start making things myself.
Lucy: And so, it was books and literature, words, that drew you before the form and fine arts?
Martin: Yes, it was. I come from a very artistic family. My mother was a painter, and I have several brothers who are writers and journalists, and also painters and good at drawing and that sort of thing, and calligraphy. In fact, what I first studied at art school was calligraphy and lettering. But I came to it rather late in my 20s. So I'd struggled with playing the piano at school, and, as I said, most of my exposure to the arts was through books and reading. But as a visual artist, well, I didn't really start till I was in my early 20s. But it has gone on continuously since then.
Lucy: Was it somebody that influenced the moving towards sculpture, or did it just feel like a very natural progression?
Martin: there was a moment at school I remember, I went into the art teacher's sculpture studio. And as soon as I saw the working life he had, you know, surrounded with blocks of stone, and with dusty books on the bookshelves, and just, sort of, dust everywhere, I came to the conclusion that this was the life for me.
I'd never have to put a tie on ever again. But I then went to university, and it took me until after I left university before I really approached it seriously.
Lucy: With my own children, we have a studio at home, and there's all sorts of projects all the way around them, but because it's so familiar to them, they kind of go against that. They want to do the opposite of what I'm interested in. But for you, I suppose, the familiarity of having your mum painting, and the materials, and those things at home, just felt much more natural to you?
Martin: It certainly seemed like an occupation that could command respect, insofar as my parents were forever talking about art and artists, mainly painters. So where other people
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Paul Day, about his creative journey and inspiration. Lucy: Paul has long been one of my favourite sculptors and is such a self-deprecating character that he says he isn’t even worthy of such a job title. He produces bronze friezes and sculptural works that have such style and imagination that I have found myself lost in the stories they tell for many hours. He has won several competitions and prizes, many of his works you will know like, The Meeting Place, in St Pancras Station where two lovers tower above the public in a clinch that makes everyone long for such a lover. Other commissions include The Battle of Britain, a magnificent war memorial on London Embankment, The Queen Mother Memorial in London and The Urban Comedy in Brussels. Join Us And Be Inspired By Sculpture. You can find images of Paul Day's Work and a transcription of the interview at Bronze Friezes with Paul Day - SCULPTURE VULTURE
If you are searching for your next novel and are interested in the dark side of the art world, you can download one of my novels for free at Sculpture Vulture Books where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.
This Podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze (Experts in the Conservation and Restoration of Sculpture and Architectural Features)
Snippet From The Interview:
Today I began our discussion by asking him, my favourite question, have you always been creative?
Lucy: Have you always been creative?
Paul: As far as I can remember, as a child, I enjoyed from the very beginning drawing, colouring in, painting pictures, and cutting things out with scissors, and I had a mother who was, and is still, very encouraging in arty and crafty things. But also, I was number two to an elder brother who, at three years of age when I turned up, already occupied the main stage in all the family gatherings. He was a natural imitator, raconteur, and loved the limelight.
Lucy: Tough act to follow.
Paul: Well, quite. I was the younger brother who, obviously, with three years less in development of language and everything else, could never keep up with or overshadow this strong and powerful figure in my life. And I think that drawing was the one way I discovered quite early on, to draw some of that limelight and attention onto myself, and to be able to make, for example, members of the family laugh and smile with my pictures, whereas I wasn't able to do that with my oratory or my ability to tell jokes, of which I don't really have an ability to tell jokes.
Today, Lucy Branch, talks to Hugh Chapman, on The Sculpture Vulture Podcast. His abstract, dynamic sculpture plays with light and form and elicits profound reactions from his audience. Hugh's work is part of the magnificent sculpture collection at Canary Wharf, London, and is enjoyed by many thousands of visitors each year. Today we discuss his inspiration, creative life and journey as a professional sculptor. Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Hugh Chapman work and a transcription of the interview at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/abstract-sculpture-with-hugh-chapman If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze Snippet from the interview: Lucy: I began our discussion today with asking my favourite question, which is if he'd always been creative. Hugh: Yes, I have been ever since I was a boy. I always was very interested in painting, drawing, and making models, and that sort of thing. I was very fortunate in the sense that my parents always encouraged creative activities as much as academic ones, which gave me a great breadth of experience. Lucy: What did your parents do? Hugh: My mum is a retired specialist in pediatric dentistry, and she's currently a visiting fellow in School of Psychology at the University of Lincoln. And she does a lot of research into dental phobia and occupational stress to do with the treatment of patients on behalf of the dentists, and that sort of thing. So, it's a pretty... Lucy: Interesting. Hugh: ...pretty interesting career for her. And my father, he's just retired. He was a research and development software engineer in the world of heating and control systems, which is a bit more exciting and varied than it might sound. I mean, Mum's quite creative at sewing and that sort of thing, which she was taught by her mum. And my dad has painted watercolours and that sort of thing for a lot of his life, and he was designing mobile aircraft as a boy and a young teenager. And we, in fact, still, to this day, fly them together. Lucy: Sounds cool. Hugh: Yeah, yeah. It's good until you crash them. But it's a useful skill as a young boy to learn that when you do crash your model, it is possible to put it back together again. But, no, they were very good. And, in fact, they sacrificed a great deal for me, because, well, I am severely dyslexic, and at school, I was basically...it was resigned to the fact that I was thick. And they remortgaged the house to send me to private school, where education in the arts and creative subjects was actually more prevalent anyway. So, I was very fortunate to go to schools where it was understood that academia wasn't everything, although I did struggle with the feeling that...you know, my brother, he's very academic as well, and in my early life, I struggled with the feeling of I needed to do something academic. And I would have been much better off had I, at an earlier age, established that being a creative person was a good thing and equally as merited as being highly academic.
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Amy Goodman, who is probably known best for her Equestrian sculptures such as the much loved, Romsey War Horse and Pegasus and Bellerophon, but to only mention them would do her a huge dis-service as she’s also the creator of some incredible military monuments, portraits as well as breath-taking abstract sculpture. Her focus is always to capture the movement and character of her subjects whether that’s bronze portraiture or a few lines of steel. Join us for a In this episode and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE as Amy discusses her creative journey and motivation to become a sculptor, her inspiration and what it takes to be a professional sculptor. You can find a transcription of the interview and images of Amy Goodman’s work at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/sculpture-vulture-blog/ Get your free novel about the dark side of the art world from https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/a-rarer-gift-than-gold/ This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze Snippet from the interview: Lucy Branch: I began our discussion today by asking her, if she’d always been creative? Amy Goodman: Yes, I’ve always loved art. I love drawing, painting and making things. Also, from a really young age I was resolving ideas in 3D, making sculptural objects like animals and horses. I’ve always loved to challenge myself by making really complicated things, and nature has always fascinated me. So really, even though I was academic, I always gravitated towards the arts. When I got to the GCSE and A-level phase later on in school, arts, pottery and sculpture were the subjects that I naturally went into. Lucy Branch: Fantastic. So was there somebody, like a role model at home, that kindled that interest? Amy Goodman: I think it was always in me. My mum could draw and get a likeness of things and I believe my grandfather, who I didn’t know very well, was quite a talented painter in his spare time. But really, it was something that I’d always just gravitated to and had an affinity with. I used to get accused of watching, I think I was a natural observer. I loved to watch what was going on around me and record it. For instance, in my pottery classes when I was 15, I loved to stay after school late into the evening. I just was fascinated by it. I had to make the most complicated things possible. I once made a “George and the dragon” with outstretched wings, and I gave George a lance for the poor dragon. I loved the challenge, how you have to be an engineer. You’ve got to think about balance and center of gravity, although I didn’t have words for them back then. You’ve really got to know about balance of form and volume, and how they relate to each other, to have a successful freestanding sculpture.
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Hamish Mackie, brilliant contemporary wildlife sculptor who has works all over the UK including Cambridgeshire, Derbyshire, Cornwall and London as well as abroad. He recently won The Public Monuments and Sculpture Association Marsh Award for Excellence in Public Fountains with The Goodman’s Fields Horses sculptures in London. His work captures the personalities of all kinds of wildlife and no animal escapes his interest from owls to tigers, hares boxing to camels. Hamish discusses his creative journey and how he became a professional sculptor, his inspiration for his work and his love of bronze. Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Hamish Mackie's work and a transcription of the interview at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk If you are looking for your next great read, please consider one of my novels which you can find out more about at Sculpture Vulture. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze Snippet from the interview: Lucy: Have you always been creative? Hamish: Yeah, I have. I grew up on a farm in Cornwall so early in my life I was always outdoors doing things on the farm, which was actually quite creative and practical. I used to make endless camps in the hay barn and that type of thing. Always doing things with my hands, life on the farm was full of creativity. It was great fun. Lucy: So it was a real outdoorsy, a kind of Gerald Durrell experience. Hamish: Yeah. Mum used to have a bell that meant it was either time to eat or time to go to bed. That used to be rung outside when it was time to come in. Lucy: That's fantastic. I need one of those. Though my children would just ignore me. Hamish: We've taken it up here. We've got one in the house instead of screaming at the children. It's good. Lucy: Brilliant. So was there a creative aspect like art or drawing that went alongside all the playing and things like that? Hamish: There was to a degree. I was lucky to have a really inspiring art teacher when I was young. I've never been particularly into words and English, but I've always been creative and I've always loved making things. My art teacher at school was very supportive of that. To the extent that when I was about 14, I made a little cow head out of wax and cast it in lead myself over an outdoor fire. I don't think health and safety would agree with it nowadays. So yeah, I had always enjoyed making things and I was surrounded by wildlife and animals on the farm so there was always lots of early inspiration. Lucy: But it wasn't your mum doing anything at home of that ilk? Or a family member that showed you the way? Hamish: Weirdly no, not really. Dad was in the army and then a farmer. Mum isn't a painter or anything. My grandfather was quite creative, he was always making things but that certainly wasn't considered the norm. I think a lot of our great grandparents' generation would have sketched and drawn and made things in the evenings when they weren't watching telly. Other than that, no, there's no history of it in the family. But my brother is also doing it so that's another weird one.
Today, Lucy Branch talks to Michael Speller, charismatic contemporary sculptor who has many works in public places in the UK including outside the iconic Millbank Tower in London, Greenwich Hospital and Loch Lomond as well as abroad. His work is all about distinctive figurative forms which play with ideas around balance and rhythm in our lives. Michael discusses his creative journey in becoming a professional sculptor, his inspiration and his love of bronze.
Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE. You can find images of Michael Speller's work and a transcription of the interview at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/figurative-sculpture-with-michael-speller/
If you are looking for a new book, the novel mentioned in this interview is currently available free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from the interview:
Lucy: I began our discussion today by asking him, if he'd always been creative?
Michael: Yes. I've been creative all my life in different guises, really. I suppose the first thing was I created my own mobile beach cocktail bar and ended up taking it to Corfu and doing a summer in Corfu. So, there was a commercial element to it, but also the most important thing to me was just creating something that had never been created before. And this was like a big ball wheelbarrow but built up with a wooden stretcher and a trap door underneath a parasol with a parrot called, Harriet, hanging off the side of it and crushed ice underneath and cocktails. Now, the funny thing with it, the whole idea was it was supposed to move but basically it never moved because everyone ran to me and were so enthusiastic about this mad thing on the beach that I always had queues and I was handing in brochures the next summer to all of the core marketing people.
Lucy: That's fantastic. really entrepreneurial as well.
Michael: Exactly. And then progressing from that my catering element was where I started…that's what I did at college. I did a catering management course at Oxford Poly as it was then. Then I went on to start my own catering business which, again, was a little bit unusual. We're talking a hell of a long time ago now but it was the first, sort of, delivery service. This is before even pizzas were delivered or they were just starting to be. This was an up-market delivery service with monkfish and prawn sort of pies and loads of exotic ingredients. And I was racing around in a dinner jacket serving these in Blackheath and Greenwich.
Lucy: I bet they loved that.
In today's interview, Lucy Branch, speaks with Rodney Munday, whose work can be found up and down the UK including The Minster Church of St Andrew, Plymouth, Oxford and Cambridge University and Chichester and Worthing Hospitals to name only a few.
Rodney's work is figurative though his range is wide. He has created many Christian themed sculptures, but also animals and commemorative works in bronze. Today Rodney shares his thoughts on his creative journey, his inspiration and his love of bronze.
Join us and be inspired by sculpture. You can find images of Rodney's work and the transcription of the interview at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/bronze-sculpture-with-rodney-munday/
If you are looking for a new book, you can get the novel mentioned in this interview for free from Sculpture Vulture.
This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze
Snippet from The Interview:
Lucy: I began our conversation today by asking if he'd always been creative?
Rodney Munday: Well, my creative journey really goes back as long as I can remember. I've always drawn and as a child, I used to make little plasticine figures. And when I first went to school, I was given some little plaster molds for pushing plasticine into for taking...demolding little bits of sculpture really and that memory has always stuck with me and I think when I started making molds for my own work, that all came back. So yes, it's been a long journey.
Lucy Branch: Was it always going to be your profession or did life take you in another direction first?
Rodney Munday: I suppose life's taken me in a lot of different directions. When I was up to the age of about 11, I thought I'd be a writer and from then on, I wanted to be an artist. But I only really thought about painting because I went to a very good school, art wise. While I was doing A level, I was doing life drawing with professional models every week, but I hadn't done any three-dimensional work though the teacher there told me that I drew like a sculptor. I went to art school but I gave up after a week for all sorts of reasons, really, but one I think was perhaps that it came as a bit of a disappointment after the education that I had at school. Then I thought that I needed to make up my mind quickly because for one thing, at that age, three years is a long time ahead of you. I felt that I needed to make a decision as to what I was going to do and I went back to school and it was just in time to take the Oxford entrance exam. I then read English for three years and one of my main tutors was a sculptor which was interesting.
Lucy Branch: Well, that sounds to me like it was meant to be. There's no way around it. Rodney Munday: I continued to draw and paint and started sculpting after I left Oxford really. Most of my time was taking up farming because I was born on a farm and that was my profession for a long time. The sculpture just crept in
Hazel Reeves is a brilliantly talented sculptress who tells stories in bronze.
In recent years she has secured several prestigious commissions among them the Sir Nigel Gresley sculpture in Kings Cross, London commemorating the engineer and innovator of steam trains, and the Cracker Packer statue dedicated to the women who have worked in the Carrs biscuit factory, now McVitie’s in Carlisle, for over a hundred years.
I’ve been keen to talk to Hazel ever since I was involved in doing some preventive conservation work on her incredible sculpture of Emmeline Pankhurst, Our Emmeline, in the centre of Manchester. Today we discuss her creative journey and why she loves telling stories in bronze. Join us for this lively chat and to look at examples of Hazel's work and read the transcription of the interview, go to www.sculpturevulture.co.uk/hazelreeves/
Sample of Interview (Transcription)
Lucy: Today, I thought I’d kick off our chat by asking when she first felt drawn to creating sculpture?
Hazel: Well, I think you have to go back to when I was younger and I was desperate to go to art school and my parents said, ‘No!’ And so, I sort of forgot about that artistic career for many years. Then I was in the Dominican Republic working with the UN on women's rights and I suddenly got back in touch with all the things I was passionate about: music, drumming, dancing, arts. When I came home, it just came to me that I was going to be a portrait sculptor, which was quite bizarre because I'd never actually done any sculpting nor any portraits, but it's the only time in my life I've actually suddenly realized I had a calling.
Lucy: Did your parents have nothing to do with the arts? Was it very alien to them? Is that why they discouraged it or was it that it wasn't a proper job?
Hazel: Oh, all of the above. According to my mum, art is a luxury and you only did arts if you couldn't do anything else. My eldest sister was already at art school and I think they were also worried about having two penniless artists in the family. So it was like, "No, you're more academic. You could go off and go to college." And so it was many years later that actually I rediscovered that this is what I should always have been doing. This is my journey and I wouldn't be the sculptor I am now if I hadn't been on that journey.
Lucy: So it definitely was something that came to...you'd had to sort of squash it down for quite a long time. I wonder what it was about the Dominican Republic that brought it all to the forefront of your mind. Is it the environment there? Is it a creative place?
Hazel: It's a very creative place. I really got into the Afro-Dominican folkloric scene there. That's very much about their music and the dance but it was also a very vibrant place, a very creative place, a very musical place. Also, you're completely out of your normal environment. Making that transition from the UK to that sort of country, where there is deep poverty in some places, but also working with the UN was a tremendous experience. It was particularly the nightlife and the nights out dancing that just really sort of shook my whole system up. It was like, ah, yeah, I'm actually not somebody to be sitting at a desk.
Get your free novel from https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/a-rarer-gift-than-gold/ where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.
The Stables in Camden is home to the Amy Winehouse statue by Scott Eaton. I talk about the recent conservation work I carried out on this beautiful bronze and recommend two other sculptures to visit if you want to be inspired by sculpture. Images of the statues and transcript can be found at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/sculpture-to-visit-in-camden-mini-episode/
Get your free novel from https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/a-rarer-gift-than-gold/ where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.
This minisode is inspired by my recent project working on a War Memorial in Madingley, Cambridge. It's an area you may never have thought to visit but one which all Sculpture Vultures will appreciate.
If you'd like to see photos of the Madingley Parish Church, Madingley Hall, The Cambridge American Cemetery and Sculpture at Churchill College - Do take a look at the blogpost at https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/sculptures-and-monuments-in-madingley-cambridge/
Get your free novel from https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/a-rarer-gift-than-gold/ where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.
In this solo-show, meet, Lucy Branch, the host of The Sculpture Vulture podcast and find out about the incredible sculptors that will be featuring in the first season. Find out more about the show at www.sculpturevulture.co.uk
Get you free novel from https://sculpturevulture.co.uk/a-rarer-gift-than-gold/ where sculpture is always at the heart of the story.