Ministry of Arts Podcast

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Tamm Reynolds (@MidgitteBardot) Tamm Reynolds is a study in contrasts: grounded, observant, quietly sharp. By day they navigate the ordinary with practiced grace, cataloguing human habits and social theatre; By night they become Midgitte Bardot, their alter ego. Brazen, glittering, unapologetically theatrical. Midgitte turns wit into spectacle, exaggeration into truth, daring audiences to laugh and look closer. Where Tamm listens, Midgitte proclaims; where Tamm edits, Midgitte improvises. Together they form a single creative engine, translating lived detail into performance. One gathers the raw material of life; the other distils it into charisma, comedy, and joy. Exist to survive, subvert expectations, and celebrate reinvention. Tamm Reynolds’ latest solo show is ‘Shooting from Below’ at the Purcell Room (Southbank) from 9-11 April 2026 For more information on Shooting from Below go tohttps://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/midgitte-bardots-shooting-from-below/  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Kellie Miller (@KellieMillerArts) Kellie Miller Arts (KMA) is an artist-owned gallery located in the prestigious, historic heart of the Brighton cultural quarter, a fitting setting for a space sympathetic to the art of storytelling.  The gallery houses local, national and international artists, with works that speak of the artistic process, where the hand of the artist can be seen.  There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists:1. Sarah Hawxwell - @Salty66452. Ava Brimilcombe - @AveysArt3. Milo Hartnoll - @MiloHartnoll For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Matt Murphy (@MattMurphyArt) Matt Murphy is a professional artist specialising in both watercolours and oils. He is best known for his unique abstract portraits created through a modern, non-traditional approach. With decades of experience, Matt has exhibited in London and across the UK, and his work has been featured in art magazines and podcasts. He has also completed commissions for clients around the world. There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists: 1. Sam Telford - @SamTelfordArt2. Kade Tame - @kad25.003. Ryan Holloway - @ RyanHollowayArtist For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.uk Email: [email protected] Social Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Sara Reeve (@sarareevedraws) We are very excited to have Sara Reeve to the Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026 judging panel!⁣ As a former runner-up on Sky’s Portrait @artistoftheyear Sara knows exactly what it’s like to be in a live portrait competition.⁣⁣Now, she’s bringing her artistic expertise to @thevenueworthing on 28th March to help us crown Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026⁣ Want to witness the competition live and see Sara in action as a judge? ⁣ There are a limited number of tickets available at sussexpaoty.com Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2026 finalists: 1. Tim O’Brien - @ TimOBrien_Artist 2. Chunthu Elgin - @artofit_ 3. Tula Parker - @ TulaParker_Artist For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 28 March go tohttps://www.instagram.com/sussexpaoty  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.uk Email: [email protected] Social Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield talks to Maggi HamblingMaggi Hambling is a prominent British painter and sculptor known for her expressive, often controversial work. Born in 1945 in Sudbury, Suffolk, she studied at the Ipswich School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art. Hambling’s art spans painting, sculpture and public memorials, frequently exploring themes of death, memory and the sea.One of her most famous public works is the Scallop (2003), a steel sculpture on Aldeburgh beach dedicated to the composer Benjamin Britten. The piece sparked debate but has since become an iconic landmark. Hambling also created the Oscar Wilde Memorial Sculpture near Trafalgar Square.Her paintings are often energetic and gestural, reflecting strong emotion and movement.Throughout her career, Hambling has been recognised for her bold artistic voice and her willingness to challenge traditional expectations in British art.To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Calum Hall of Creative Debuts (@CreativeDebuts) Creative Debuts connect artists with brands, businesses, and art lovers - through art rental, commissions, events, and storytelling that sparks real change. Founded in 2013 by Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree Calum Hall, Creative Debuts exists to make the art world fairer, bolder, and more accessible. They’re not just an art platform - They’re a movement. They give underrepresented artists a platform, and help brands bring creativity and culture into their spaces through budget-friendly, flexible art consultancy services.  FACE 2 FACEOn March 5th, Creative Debuts return IRL at Laundry Studios in Hackney, London, for a new chapter of their long-running event series, bringing artists, art lovers, creatives and culture-shapers together once again in a shared space.The exhibition theme, FACE 2 FACE, puts human connection front and centre. For more information on the work of Creative Debuts go to https://www.creativedebuts.co.uk/  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield talks to sound artist Martyn Ware (@martynware), music producer and founding member of both Human League & Heaven 17.  Martyn co-curated ReAnimate, an exhibition of sound spread over several rooms of the National Portrait Gallery where several artists were invited to create sound portraits, as part of the Late Shift Extra events. For The National Trust’s One and All project Martyn created What Does the Sea Say?, an interactive soundscape housed within a typical British beach hut.  Although recordings were made by the sea, this work travelled around the UK. Martyn’s latest creation is an urban soundscape is entitled; Everything Old is New Again which accompanied the visual experience of the Forest of Imagination in Bath during the summer of 2019, where statements made by the old were read aloud by the young and vice versa (a link for which is found below).https://soundcloud.com/martynware/everything-old-is-new-again-stereo-binaural For more information of Martyn’s sound installations, past and present visit; www.illustriouscompany.co.uk Martyn is touring throughout 2019 with Heaven 17  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Pure Evil (@MichelleHeron.art) Michelle Heron is best known for her evocative paintings of shop-fronts, which capture the quiet character of everyday streets.Working primarily in oil, Heron focuses on independent shops, cafés and small businesses, often depicting them closed, weathered or slightly worn. Her work is less about commerce and more about memory, place and passing time. By isolating shop-fronts and removing figures, she invites viewers to reflect on changing high streets and the social histories embedded in familiar buildings.  Her muted colour palettes and careful attention to signage, reflections and typography give each painting a strong sense of atmosphere. Through these seemingly ordinary subjects, Heron elevates overlooked spaces into thoughtful, nostalgic portraits of contemporary British life. Thank you to Tani Burns for making this conversation happen For more information on the work of Michelle Heron go tohttps:// MichelleHeron.co.uk  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this REWIND episode (recorded: Feb 2019) Gary Mansfield speaks to Katie Piper OBE (@katiepiper_) Katie Piper OBE is popular TV presenter/personality, model, writer, activist and a whole lot more.In 2008 she was horrifically attacked with acid, severely scarring her face and chest; she also lost the sight of her left eye.Katie later founded the Katie Piper Foundation, helping others’ deal with living with such injuries. In 2018, Gary Mansfield created an exhibition called FaceValue, where 30 artists would donate a piece of artwork, and I would deface it [aesthetically] in some way. The question was asked, “If something/one has their identity changed by a third-party, are they devalued by society, or viewed as unique?” The artists’ collectively donated the works to the Katie Piper Foundation.  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield talks to Emily Malice (@emilymalice)Emily Malice is one of the most sort-after artists in the UK, she is one of the many bold and powerful women that are rebalancing the gender scale of the once heavily male orientated industry.She is famed for her linear style mouth design, smiling or snarling and showing braces fixed to the teeth.As well as selling prints of her designs, along with her close friend Stephanie she has started the ethical clothing brand FILTHYCUTELDN. For full line up of confirmed artists go to www.mizogart.com Email: [email protected] Social Media: @mizogart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Catrin Osborne (@CatrinOsborne) Catrin Osborne is a multidisciplinary artist and photographer whose work explores identity, femininity and the shifting nature of the female body. Known for her intimate portraiture and collaborative approach, Osborne focuses on themes often overlooked in mainstream visual culture, giving voice to women’s lived experiences. Her projects combine documentary clarity with a gentle poetic sensibility, resulting in images that feel both grounded and emotionally resonant. Osborne frequently works with her subjects over long periods, allowing trust and authenticity to guide her creative process. Her latest book, A Portrait of the Menopause, continues this commitment to honest representation. Through photographs and personal testimonies, Osborne highlights the varied realities of menopause—its challenges, its freedoms and its profound physical and emotional transitions. The book provides a platform for women to share their stories, reframing menopause as a powerful, multifaceted stage of life rather than a taboo. Overall, Osborne’s work contributes meaningfully to contemporary conversations about womanhood, aging and visibility. For more information on A Portrait of the Menopause go tohttps://blackdogonline.com/products/a-portrait-of-menopause To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to James Payne (@GreatArtExplained) James Payne is a writer, curator and YouTuber, known for demystifying art via his popular YouTube channel Great Art Explained. His newly released book, Great Art Explained: The Stories Behind the World’s Greatest Masterpieces, brings that same clarity to the printed page. It explores 30 iconic works — from Botticelli’s Birth of Venus to Monet’s Water Lilies and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Jimson Weed — unpacking not only their visual features but also the artists’ lives and social context. Payne’s style is refreshingly jargon-free: he explains what makes each piece “great” through clear storytelling and insight. Stephen Fry has called the book “an instant classic.” For more information on the Great Art Explained: The Stories Behind the World’s Greatest Masterpieces go towww.welbooks.co.uk/shop/p/great-art-explained-the-stories-behind-the-worlds-greatest-masterpieces-by-james-payne-signed  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this rewind episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Gina Soden (REC: 2019).Gina is a photographic artist that enters once grand and regal buildings to capture images of the last remnants of beauty within those decaying walls.Back in the studio, her creative process produces artworks that are far from dark or macabre.She directs your eye, firstly to a strong focal point, then allows it to absorb the rest of the artwork which has equal measures of beauty, decay and intrigue.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Dave Buonaguidi (@RealHackneyDave) Dave Buonaguidi (aka Real Hackney Dave) is best known for his bold, witty, and thought-provoking screen prints that blend vintage imagery with striking typography.Drawing from his background in advertising, Buonaguidi combines humour, social commentary, and nostalgia to challenge conventional ideas of art and communication. He often uses found materials, such as old maps or postcards, overlaid with vivid, hand-pulled slogans that create a playful contrast between past and present. His works explore themes of identity, consumerism, and the power of words, making them instantly recognisable and engaging. Dave  has exhibited widely across the UK, earning a reputation for his distinctive style that bridges pop art and street culture with clever, irreverent energy. For more information on the work of Dave Buonaguidi go tohttps://realhackneydave.com/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Dave Buonaguidi (@RealHackneyDave) - November 2018.Dave Buonaguidi had literally decided to become a screen-printer overnight. He left his job, in advertising on a Friday, went on a one-day screen-printing course at Print Club London on the Saturday and fell in love with the rapid creative process that day.Dave is best known for laying bold text over found maps, manuscripts and documents. When one of the UK’s largest Estate Agents started using adverts very similar the Dave’s recent work, Dave responded with a highly amusing barrage of ‘fake’ ad’s in the guise of those used by the Estate Agents. Whilst now running his own successful advertising agency Dave still finds the time to fulfil commissions and create his own body of work.To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Stefdies (@StefDies) Stefdies is a performance and conceptual artist known for her striking photographic series in which she stages her own “death” in public and private spaces. Her work explores themes of vulnerability, mortality, and absurdity within everyday life.By placing her lifeless body in unexpected environments, she provokes reflection on social norms, detachment, and the human condition. Stefdies’ minimalist yet provocative approach merges performance, photography, and satire to question modern existence and visibility To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this REWIND episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Mark Wallinger (recorded: November 2018).Mark Wallinger is known for exploring identity, faith, and politics through diverse media. His Labyrinth (2013) project placed unique labyrinth designs across London’s Underground stations, symbolising journeys and introspection. Earlier, his celebrated sculpture Ecce Homo (1999) depicted a life-sized, vulnerable Christ figure on Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth, challenging perceptions of power, humanity, and compassion. Wallinger’s thought-provoking works continue to engage public spaces and question contemporary British identityTo Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofartsFor full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Rod Kitson (@RodKitsonArt) Rod Kitson is an artist known for his expressive portraiture and socially engaged art projects. Kitson’s work often explores themes of identity, community, and mental health.His distinctive style combines bold brushwork with a keen sensitivity to his subjects, capturing emotion and character in equal measure. Kitson gained national attention for his live portrait projects, in which he paints members of the public in pop-up studios and public spaces. These sessions not only produce intimate works of art but also encourage dialogue around creativity and well-being. He is particularly recognised for his “100 Heads” initiative, where he painted one hundred people in as many days, showcasing the diversity and stories of his local community. His work has been exhibited across the UK and is often noted for its accessibility and community focus. Kitson continues to blur the lines between artist and facilitator, using portraiture to foster connection and empathy.  For more information on the work of Rod Kitson go tohttps://www.rodkitson.com  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.