Ministry of Arts Podcast

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Eden Maseyk (@helmgallery_) Let’s take a moment to spotlight our incredible guest judges, who have the tough job of choosing the winner at Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2025…Meet Eden Maseyk, co-founder and curator of Brighton’s @helmgallery_⁣Passionate about making the art world more accessible, Eden curates a dynamic exhibition programme throughout the year while ensuring an exceptional experience for visitors.⁣With her fresh perspective and curatorial expertise, Eden is a fantastic addition to our judging panel this year.⁣Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2025 finalists:1.    Jodie Drew - @jodie_drew_art2.    Maria Huxstep - @mariaahuxstep3.    Adrian Sensicle - @assemblageurWatch the live painting competition on Saturday 22nd March at @thevenueworthing For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 22 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.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Amy Dury (@amy_dury) We are beyond excited to have Amy Dury to the Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 judging panel!⁣ ⁣ As a former participant on Sky’s Portrait @artistoftheyear Amy knows exactly what it’s like to be in a live portrait competition.⁣ ⁣ Her masterful paintings explore societal roles, power dynamics, and human connections, earning her exhibitions at @royal_institute_watercolours and @royalsocietyportraitpainters⁣ ⁣ Now, she’s bringing her artistic expertise to @thevenueworthing on 22nd March to help us crown Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 🎨⁣ ⁣ Want to witness the competition live and see Amy 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 2025 finalists:1.    Tim Bidwell - @timbidwell2.    Helen Stone - @helenstone_art 3.    Mandy Worster - @mandyworsterstudio ⁣For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 22 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.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Wendy Barratt (@wendybarrattart) Wendy’s journey is nothing short of inspiring...⁣ ⁣ Originally a finalist in Worthing Portrait Artist of the Year (Now Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year) Wendy then went on to win Sky’s Portait Artist of the Year in 2023! ⁣ ⁣ Her stunning portrait of Jane Goodall now hangs in the National Portrait Gallery where her self portrait was featured in the Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award exhibition in 2024.⁣ ⁣ With her first-hand experience as a competitor and a deep understanding of portraiture, Wendy brings invaluable insight to our judging panel. Also in this episode is a small introduction to three of the Sussex paoty 2025 finalists:1.    Jake Fern - @ jake_fern_art2.    Tracey Cranidge - @tjcranidge.art3.    Tim O’Brien - @timobrien_artist ⁣For ticket information for the Sussex Portrait of the year on 22 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.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Louise Duggan (@louisedugganartist) Louise Duggan is a Chichester-based multidisciplinary artist whose work is a journey of discovery. After graduating from Leicester University in 1996 with a BA (Hons) in Art and Design, Louise embarked on a successful career in high-end interior design. She worked throughout London before relocating to Dubai, where she spent 23 years designing and producing bespoke artworks for prestigious clients. Her work is featured in many of Dubai’s five-star hotels, including a commission of nine paintings for the world’s first 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab. Her abstract human figures and bold compositions express ideas rather than subjects, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional and subconscious layers of her art.Louise challenges her own subconscious beliefs through both therapy and her art, capturing and documenting this transformative journey. Her work reflects self-exploration, a medium through which she confronts and evolves her inner world. In addition to her artistic practice, Louise currently runs Ophelia Art Consultancy LTD, with offices in the UK and Dubai, and the Sussex Creative Art Network CIC (Chichester CAN). Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2025,  22nd March from 1pm at @thevenueworthing  With guest sitters:1.    Dunstan Bruce @dunstanbruce2.    Richie Campbell @richkidcampbell3.    Rich Wilson @iamrichwilsonTicket info on the Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 go to @sussexpaoty For more information on the work of Louise Duggan go tohttps://louiseduggan.com/  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to David Shillinglaw (@DavidShillinglaw) David Shillinglaw is known for his vibrant, dynamic, and eclectic works that explore themes of human connection, identity, and the complexities of modern life. Born in 1982, Shillinglaw’s artistic practice spans a wide range of mediums, including painting, drawing, murals, and installation art. His style is characterised by bold colours, playful symbols, and a fusion of text and imagery, creating visually arresting compositions that invite viewers to engage with his layered narratives. Shillinglaw's work often incorporates a mix of abstract forms and figurative elements, blending influences from street art, graffiti, and pop culture with philosophical musings and personal reflections. His pieces frequently feature recurring motifs such as hands, eyes, and arrows, which act as metaphors for communication, perception, and direction. Having exhibited internationally, Shillinglaw’s murals and installations have transformed urban spaces into dynamic art experiences, bridging the gap between public and private spheres. His art is not only visually compelling but also thought-provoking, encouraging audiences to contemplate themes of chaos and order, individualism, and collective humanity. David Shillinglaw’s ability to merge the playful and the profound has made him a distinctive voice in contemporary art, resonating with audiences across the globe. For more information on the work of David Shillinglaw go to https://davidshillinglaw.co.uk Cover image by, and thanks to, Joanna Dudderidge. To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.ukEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to JPR Stitch (@JPR_Stitch) Dr. Jack Roberts, professionally known as JPR Stitch, specialises in freehand machine embroidery. His work features organic, abstract shapes intricately formed through dense webs of stitching, reflecting the calmness and tranquillity he experiences during creation.  Roberts' artistic journey began under the tutelage of his mother and grandmother, who introduced him to various textile techniques. Over time, he gravitated towards freehand machine embroidery, finding it akin to continuous line drawing.  Academically, Roberts holds a PhD from Manchester Metropolitan University, where he researched artist-dealer relationships, complementing his practical experience as an art dealer and community artist.  In 2021, he shifted his focus entirely to his art, establishing a daily practice that serves as both meditation and creative expression. Roberts often shares his process and insights on Instagram, treating the platform as a digital sketchbook and journal.   For more information on the work of JPR Stitch go tohttps://www.jprstitch.com/ To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Maya Land (@artisticsideoflife_) Maya Land is a London-based artist known for her surreal collages, meticulously crafted from vintage imagery. Her work explores contemporary social and political issues, reimagined through the lens of nostalgic aesthetics. By blending elements from different eras, she creates compelling pieces that resonate with modern audiences. Land’s artistic process begins with sourcing materials from vintage magazines, books, and photographs. She carefully assembles these fragments into cohesive narratives, highlighting the contrasts and connections between past and present societal themes. Her innovative approach has earned her international acclaim, with exhibitions in prestigious galleries across Europe, including the Saatchi Gallery in London.  Outside of traditional galleries, Land actively engages with her audience through social media. On Instagram, she shares her creative process and connects with a global following. One notable project celebrated the National Gallery's 200th anniversary, where she reimagined a century-old image in her signature surreal style, seamlessly merging historical and contemporary art. Maya Land’s distinctive collages encourage viewers to reflect on modern society's complexities while appreciating the enduring beauty and relevance of the past.  For more information on the work of Maya Land go tohttps://www.mayalandart.com To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Jacob Clayton (@j.s.clayton) Jacob Clayton explores the intersection of abstraction, minimalism, and the human experience. His distinctive artistic voice has emerged through a combination of varied mediums, with a focus on painting, sculpture, and installation. His work often delves into themes of memory, identity, and perception, capturing complex emotions and concepts through pared-down, abstract forms. Clayton's practice is marked by a keen interest in the interplay of colour, shape, and texture. He employs geometric and organic forms, creating a sense of fluidity and tension within his compositions. His works evoke a balance between simplicity and complexity, inviting viewers to engage with them on an intellectual and emotional level. The artist is known for his ability to create atmospheric works that are both meditative and dynamic. In recent years, Clayton has gained recognition for his bold, yet subtle approach to abstraction. His work has been exhibited in various galleries and shows across the UK, drawing attention from collectors and critics alike.  Through his unique perspective, Clayton continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, offering new ways of seeing and experiencing the world. His contribution to the UK's art scene is one of quiet innovation and thoughtful exploration.  For more information on the work of Jacob Clayton go tohttps://jacobclayton.co.uk For more information on Thousand-Pointed star goto @teaspoonprojects To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Andrew Logan (@AndrewLoganSculptor) Andrew Logan is celebrated for his vibrant and eclectic work that blurs the boundaries between art, design, and performance. Born in 1945, Logan is best known for his unique sculptures, mosaics, and installations that incorporate mirrored glass, colourful resins, and a variety of unconventional materials. His creations exude a sense of joy, whimsy, and theatricality, reflecting his fascination with beauty and individuality. Logan's most iconic contribution to the art world is the Alternative Miss World, an exuberant and inclusive event he founded in 1972. This unconventional pageant celebrates creativity and self-expression, drawing inspiration from traditional beauty contests but focusing on art and imagination rather than conventional standards. His works have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, and he is credited with bridging the gap between fine art and popular culture. Logan’s playful, boundary-pushing style has made him a beloved figure in contemporary art, embodying a spirit of celebration and artistic freedom that continues to inspire audiences globally. For more information on the work of Andrew Logan go tohttps://www.andrewlogan.com Cover image courtesy of: @jamiewoodleyphoto  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg