Ministry of Arts Podcast

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Meg Malloy/Working Arts Club (@WorkingArtsClub) Founded by Meg Molloy in 2024, the Working Arts Club is a London-based independent network dedicated to professionals in the arts from working-class backgrounds. Originally from Margate, Molloy founded the club to confront the isolation and structural barriers often experienced by those from lower-income communities within the arts industry.The club fosters a strong sense of community through networking events, workshops, and panel discussions featuring influential working-class voices in the creative sector.Since its inception, it has grown rapidly, with nearly 1,000 members—approximately 75% of whom identify as women. More than just a professional resource, the Working Arts Club provides a space for solidarity and honest conversation about class-based challenges in the arts.Looking ahead from its first anniversary, Molloy hopes to broaden the club’s reach into schools and universities, encouraging young people from similar backgrounds to pursue and thrive in creative careers. For more information on the work of Working Arts Club contact workingartsclub@gmail.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: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

 In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Daisy Collingridge (@Daisy_Collingridge) Daisy Collingridge is a artist renowned for her unique and thought-provoking textile sculptures. A graduate of Central Saint Martins with a background in fashion design, her work bridges the gap between fine art, sculpture, and costume.Her creations are imaginative, surreal, and often playful, characterised by their fleshy, anthropomorphic forms made from intricately stitched layers of fabric. These pieces, which she refers to as "Squishies," explore themes of human anatomy, identity, and the boundaries of the body. Daisy uses materials like Lycra, jersey, and wadding to craft tactile, exaggerated forms that are both grotesque and endearing. Her sculptures often evoke visceral responses, challenging perceptions of beauty and bodily norms while maintaining an underlying sense of humour. Collingridge’s work has been exhibited in galleries across the UK and internationally, capturing attention for its innovative approach to textile art. Through her practice, she continues to push the boundaries of materiality and storytelling in contemporary sculpture. For more information on the work of Daisy Collingridge go to https:// DaisyCollingridge.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: ministryofartsorg@gmail.comSocial Media: @ministryofartsorg 

 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 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