Christina Quarles

I am so excited to say that my guest is one of the most renowned painters working in the world right now, Christina Quarles. A painter of bodies that stretch, condense, tangle, and meld into shapes that range from fleshy to stringy, Quarles is globally hailed for transposing this warm-blooded vessel onto a flat surface with ambiguity and effervescence. Her paintings make us feel, viscerally react both physically and emotionally with their fluorescent colouring, limbs that dismantle from the body, faces devoid of detail that exist between reality and surreality, all while echoing the constantly in flux body that we all live within. Born in 1985 in Chicago, and based in Los Angeles, Quarles emphasises through paint her and our multitudinous positions in the world. Working with acrylic paint and programmes such as adobe illustrator for the background and structures that surround the figures, her process, like her chosen subject, is full of dichotomies, between the historic and contemporary, absence and presence, night and day, in locations that exist in water and on land, in bodies that are both shadow and the full figure. A graduate of Hampshire College, for which she completed dual BA degrees in Philosophy and Studio Art, an MFA graduate of Yale School of Art and Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Quarles in the past few years has exhibited across the globe in some of the most prestigious institutions and group exhibitions, from the landmark Radical Figures at Whitechapel Gallery to last year’s Venice Biennale, and has had solo exhibitions at the Hepworth Wakefield and Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, but today we meet her in Menorca, at Hauser &amp; Wirth, for her newly opened exhibition Come In From An Endless Place, which I can’t wait to find out more about.THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/ENJOY!!!Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

I am so excited to say that my guest is one of the most renowned painters working in the world right now, Christina Quarles. A painter of bodies that stretch, condense, tangle, and meld into shapes that range from fleshy to stringy, Quarles is globally hailed for transposing this warm-blooded vessel onto a flat surface with ambiguity and effervescence. Her paintings make us feel, viscerally react both physically and emotionally with their fluorescent colouring, limbs that dismantle from the body, faces devoid of detail that exist between reality and surreality, all while echoing the constantly in flux body that we all live within. Born in 1985 in Chicago, and based in Los Angeles, Quarles emphasises through paint her and our multitudinous positions in the world. Working with acrylic paint and programmes such as adobe illustrator for the background and structures that surround the figures, her process, like her chosen subject, is full of dichotomies, between the historic and contemporary, absence and presence, night and day, in locations that exist in water and on land, in bodies that are both shadow and the full figure. A graduate of Hampshire College, for which she completed dual BA degrees in Philosophy and Studio Art, an MFA graduate of Yale School of Art and Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Quarles in the past few years has exhibited across the globe in some of the most prestigious institutions and group exhibitions, from the landmark Radical Figures at Whitechapel Gallery to last year’s Venice Biennale, and has had solo exhibitions at the Hepworth Wakefield and Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, but today we meet her in Menorca, at Hauser &amp; Wirth, for her newly opened exhibition Come In From An Endless Place, which I can’t wait to find out more about. THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a> ENJOY!!! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

In this episode, of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel reads 30 MINS of her chapter on SURREALISM from her book – and audiobook! – The Story of Art Without Men. The Story of Art Without Men is published by Penguin (UK), WW Norton (US). AUDIO BOOK: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Story-of-Art-Without-Men-Audiobook/B09P1RK3GV?utm_source=AuthorpostBOOK: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-story-of-art-without-men/katy-hessel/9781529151145 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-story-of-art-without-men-katy-hessel/1141471389Taking its name from Gombrich’s Story of Art (now in its sixteenth edition, which includes just one woman!), this book aims to retell art history with PIONEERING non-male artists who spearheaded movements and redefined the canon.Beginning in the 1500s and ending with those defining the 2020s, this ~FULLY illustrated 500+ page~ book is divided into five parts pinpointing major shifts in art history. It goes across the globe to explore and introduce you to myriad styles and movements, interweaving women, their work and stories, within!To avoid artists ever being seen as the wife of, the muse of, the model of, or the acquaintance of, I have situated the artists (over 350!!) within their social and political context.I hope this book will be your GUIDE and BIBLE to art history, providing introductions and overviews of major movements from the last 500 years, because, what was the Baroque anyway? Who were the Spiritualist artists in the 19th century? Explore the Impressionists, the quilt-makers paving the way, the Harlem Renaissance trailblazers, the postwar artists of Latin America, the St Ives group, GUTAI, Abstract Expressionists, those reinventing the perception of the body in art, the feminist movement of the 1970s, art since the millennium and SO MUCH MORE!PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.By: Katy HesselNarrated by: Katy HesselLength: 10 hrs and 44 minsUnabridged AudiobookTHIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/ENJOY!!!Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In this episode, of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel reads 30 MINS of her chapter on SURREALISM from her book – and audiobook! – The Story of Art Without Men. The Story of Art Without Men is published by Penguin (UK), WW Norton (US). AUDIO BOOK: <a href="https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Story-of-Art-Without-Men-Audiobook/B09P1RK3GV?utm_source=Authorpost" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Story-of-Art-Without-Men-Audiobook/B09P1RK3GV?utm_source=Authorpost</a> BOOK: <a href="https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-story-of-art-without-men/katy-hessel/9781529151145" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-story-of-art-without-men/katy-hessel/9781529151145</a> <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-story-of-art-without-men-katy-hessel/1141471389" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-story-of-art-without-men-katy-hessel/1141471389</a> Taking its name from Gombrich’s Story of Art (now in its sixteenth edition, which includes just one woman!), this book aims to retell art history with PIONEERING non-male artists who spearheaded movements and redefined the canon. Beginning in the 1500s and ending with those defining the 2020s, this ~FULLY illustrated 500+ page~ book is divided into five parts pinpointing major shifts in art history. It goes across the globe to explore and introduce you to myriad styles and movements, interweaving women, their work and stories, within! To avoid artists ever being seen as the wife of, the muse of, the model of, or the acquaintance of, I have situated the artists (over 350!!) within their social and political context. I hope this book will be your GUIDE and BIBLE to art history, providing introductions and overviews of major movements from the last 500 years, because, what was the Baroque anyway? Who were the Spiritualist artists in the 19th century? Explore the Impressionists, the quilt-makers paving the way, the Harlem Renaissance trailblazers, the postwar artists of Latin America, the St Ives group, GUTAI, Abstract Expressionists, those reinventing the perception of the body in art, the feminist movement of the 1970s, art since the millennium and SO MUCH MORE! PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio. By: Katy Hessel Narrated by: Katy Hessel Length: 10 hrs and 44 mins Unabridged Audiobook THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a> ENJOY!!! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

The Story of Art Without Men (Surrealism -- Audiobook!)

Ruth Ozeki

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most important, pioneering and impactful writers and novelists working today, Ruth Ozeki. In this episode, we deep dive into looking, writing, observation and perception in a fascinating discussion that traverses objects, the written form, imagination and memoir. She is the author of four novels, My Year of Meats (1998); All Over Creation (2003); A Tale for the Time Being (which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2013 and won the LA Times Book Prize); and more recently, The Book of Form and Emptiness (for which she won the Women’s Prize for Fiction) – an extraordinary novel centred on 14 year old Benny who, after his father dies, begins to hear voices, with other objects in a magical realist sense taking on roles to speak. Ozeki’s work is powerful, it breaks boundaries and reinvents storytelling and often melds ancient ideas with contemporary ones – looking at how they relate to our technology, religion, politics or pop culture. In addition to her writing work, Ozeki is a Zen Buddhist priest, ordained in 2010 and a role that has influenced her two most recent novels; and a filmmaker, hailed for her 1995 work Halving the Bones, that looks at three generations of Ruth’s maternal family history from Japan, to Hawaii and to a suburb in Connecticut. But, aside from this, it is also Ozeki’s non-fiction work that I highly admire, in particular her 2016 book “Timecode of a Face” – a part-memoir, part-experiment – influenced by a Harvard art historian that saw her sit in front of a mirror for three hours and examine her face as she traces each line, mark, crease and feature back to story from her past – which I cannot wait to get into in this episode! Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most important, pioneering and impactful writers and novelists working today, Ruth Ozeki.  In this episode, we deep dive into looking, writing, observation and perception in a fascinating discussion that traverses objects, the written form, imagination and memoir. She is the author of four novels, My Year of Meats (1998); All Over Creation (2003); A Tale for the Time Being (which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2013 and won the LA Times Book Prize); and more recently, The Book of Form and Emptiness (for which she won the Women’s Prize for Fiction) – an extraordinary novel centred on 14 year old Benny who, after his father dies, begins to hear voices, with other objects in a magical realist sense taking on roles to speak. Ozeki’s work is powerful, it breaks boundaries and reinvents storytelling and often melds ancient ideas with contemporary ones – looking at how they relate to our technology, religion, politics or pop culture.  In addition to her writing work, Ozeki is a Zen Buddhist priest, ordained in 2010 and a role that has influenced her two most recent novels; and a filmmaker, hailed for her 1995 work Halving the Bones, that looks at three generations of Ruth’s maternal family history from Japan, to Hawaii and to a suburb in Connecticut.  But, aside from this, it is also Ozeki’s non-fiction work that I highly admire, in particular her 2016 book “Timecode of a Face” – a part-memoir, part-experiment – influenced by a Harvard art historian that saw her sit in front of a mirror for three hours and examine her face as she traces each line, mark, crease and feature back to story from her past – which I cannot wait to get into in this episode! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Ruth Ozeki on objects and observation

Anna Weyant

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most exciting artists working in the world right now, Anna Weyant.From girls on the cusp of adolescence swept up in an eerie atmosphere to dollshouses with doors only slightly ajar, the subjects of Weyant’s paintings are nothing short of haunting, humorous, witty, and tense. Rooted in a style that feels like a cross between Old Master Painting and the unnerving perfection of Disney animations, Weyant’s works feel at once familiar, but starkly detached, leaving us to question if they are scenes from the real world, the past, or the ones in our head? Often centred on a young girl – often waiting, thinking, watching or screaming who appears to be around the pre-teen and teenage years described as the “most frivolous and the most intense periods of human experience – Weyant’s paintings are full of contradictions. Unrooted in place and time, they sit on a threshold between good/evil, absent/present, strength/vulnerability, being watched/ watching, historic and the contemporary. And, by grounding her work in the traditional genre of still lifes and portraits – genres only afforded to women who were restricted to large-scale history painting before the 19th century – she allows us to question what we already know and don’t know from these historic paintings, or,  what we know and don’t know about our female protagonist and her own experiences. Based in New York, and educated at RISD, Weyant, despite being 27, has already held shows to acclaim in the city. Last November, she took over Gagosian’s spaces with 7 new works – one as large as 9 feet tall, alongside many of her drawings – and I can’t wait to find out more. Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most exciting artists working in the world right now, Anna Weyant. From girls on the cusp of adolescence swept up in an eerie atmosphere to dollshouses with doors only slightly ajar, the subjects of Weyant’s paintings are nothing short of haunting, humorous, witty, and tense. Rooted in a style that feels like a cross between Old Master Painting and the unnerving perfection of Disney animations, Weyant’s works feel at once familiar, but starkly detached, leaving us to question if they are scenes from the real world, the past, or the ones in our head?  Often centred on a young girl – often waiting, thinking, watching or screaming who appears to be around the pre-teen and teenage years described as the “most frivolous and the most intense periods of human experience – Weyant’s paintings are full of contradictions. Unrooted in place and time, they sit on a threshold between good/evil, absent/present, strength/vulnerability, being watched/ watching, historic and the contemporary. And, by grounding her work in the traditional genre of still lifes and portraits – genres only afforded to women who were restricted to large-scale history painting before the 19th century – she allows us to question what we already know and don’t know from these historic paintings, or,  what we know and don’t know about our female protagonist and her own experiences.  Based in New York, and educated at RISD, Weyant, despite being 27, has already held shows to acclaim in the city. Last November, she took over Gagosian’s spaces with 7 new works – one as large as 9 feet tall, alongside many of her drawings – and I can’t wait to find out more.  Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Mickalene Thomas

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most renowned artists working in the world right now, Mickalene Thomas. Working across painting, photography, installation, film, collage and more, Thomas, for the past two decades has been instrumental in forging an identity for figuration in the 21st century. Positioning her subjects – bold, beautiful women – in often large-scale work that commands the same power as that of Old Master Painting, Thomas lionises her subjects, whether they be friends, family members or lovers, by imbuing them with glittering rhinestone crystals and rich, colourful patterning, in atmospheres that are full of freedom, full of liberation. Drawing from pop culture and history – think Grace Jones to the 19th century French painters – and striving to encapsulate the beauty and glamour she witnessed in Jet magazine when growing up, Thomas also re-stages, reclaims, art-historical compositions by reworking paintings from the lens of a Black queer woman. In 2013, she said: ‘Portraits are very powerful. They have a great representation and dominance in the world... of trying to capture the essence of someone’ and just to prove how powerful this was on her own career, it was after seeing legendary photographer Carrie Mae Weems’s Kitchen Table Series, 1990 that Thomas was inspired to pursue art. Switching from law and enrolling in art school at the Pratt Institute, Thomas then went on to earn her MFA from Yale, and has since worked indefatigably to elevate the presence of Black women in art. Thomas has exhibited at the world’s most prestigious institutions, from the Brooklyn Museum to MOCA Los Angeles, Spellman College to the ICA in Boston, but she has also been a force at uplifting the careers of others – such as, in recent shows, curating exhibitions alongside her own featuring younger names, making for a more exciting and inclusive art history, that others have followed her in doing. Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most renowned artists working in the world right now, Mickalene Thomas. Working across painting, photography, installation, film, collage and more, Thomas, for the past two decades has been instrumental in forging an identity for figuration in the 21st century. Positioning her subjects – bold, beautiful women – in often large-scale work that commands the same power as that of Old Master Painting, Thomas lionises her subjects, whether they be friends, family members or lovers, by imbuing them with glittering rhinestone crystals and rich, colourful patterning, in atmospheres that are full of freedom, full of liberation. Drawing from pop culture and history – think Grace Jones to the 19th century French painters – and striving to encapsulate the beauty and glamour she witnessed in Jet magazine when growing up, Thomas also re-stages, reclaims, art-historical compositions by reworking paintings from the lens of a Black queer woman. In 2013, she said: ‘Portraits are very powerful. They have a great representation and dominance in the world... of trying to capture the essence of someone’ and just to prove how powerful this was on her own career, it was after seeing legendary photographer Carrie Mae Weems’s Kitchen Table Series, 1990 that Thomas was inspired to pursue art. Switching from law and enrolling in art school at the Pratt Institute, Thomas then went on to earn her MFA from Yale, and has since worked indefatigably to elevate the presence of Black women in art. Thomas has exhibited at the world’s most prestigious institutions, from the Brooklyn Museum to MOCA Los Angeles, Spellman College to the ICA in Boston, but she has also been a force at uplifting the careers of others – such as, in recent shows, curating exhibitions alongside her own featuring younger names, making for a more exciting and inclusive art history, that others have followed her in doing. Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most pioneering artists alive today, Kiki Smith!Born in 1954, in Germany, raised in New Jersey, and now based in the Catskills and New York City, where we are recording today, Kiki Smith is an artist who works across a whole range of mediums ranging from sculpture to printmaking, tapestry to collage. She focuses on subjects of mortality and decay, the body and the earth, what it means to be human and our relationship to nature. She has said: "Our bodies are basically stolen from us, and my work is about trying to reclaim one's own turf, or one's own vehicle of being here, to own it and to use it to look at how we are here.”But it is this notion of collage that seems to be at the heart of her oeuvre – as she works with multiple forms, hybridised figures, and looks at both ancient mythology and contemporary politics, such as tragic events such as the AIDS crisis or the cruel laws around abortion. As a result, she has used materials such as bodily fluids to investigate subjects around death, reproduction and birth. Working indefatigably since the 1970s, Smith, although having briefly studied at Hartford Art School in Connecticut, is for the most part self taught. She has described herself as a “thing-maker” and it is this desire and hunger for experimentation that makes her work so captivating and engaging. Studying the world by living and surrounding herself with nature, she has also since gone on to train as an emergency medical technician. A professor at NYU and Columbia University, Smith has exhibited across the globe – from the Whitney museum to MoMA, The Whitechapel to, most recently, the Seoul Museum of Art in South Korea – and is in collections of some of the most renowned museums in the world. I couldn’t be more excited to be interviewing her today.Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most pioneering artists alive today, Kiki Smith! Born in 1954, in Germany, raised in New Jersey, and now based in the Catskills and New York City, where we are recording today, Kiki Smith is an artist who works across a whole range of mediums ranging from sculpture to printmaking, tapestry to collage. She focuses on subjects of mortality and decay, the body and the earth, what it means to be human and our relationship to nature. She has said: "Our bodies are basically stolen from us, and my work is about trying to reclaim one's own turf, or one's own vehicle of being here, to own it and to use it to look at how we are here.” But it is this notion of collage that seems to be at the heart of her oeuvre – as she works with multiple forms, hybridised figures, and looks at both ancient mythology and contemporary politics, such as tragic events such as the AIDS crisis or the cruel laws around abortion. As a result, she has used materials such as bodily fluids to investigate subjects around death, reproduction and birth. Working indefatigably since the 1970s, Smith, although having briefly studied at Hartford Art School in Connecticut, is for the most part self taught. She has described herself as a “thing-maker” and it is this desire and hunger for experimentation that makes her work so captivating and engaging. Studying the world by living and surrounding herself with nature, she has also since gone on to train as an emergency medical technician. A professor at NYU and Columbia University, Smith has exhibited across the globe – from the Whitney museum to MoMA, The Whitechapel to, most recently, the Seoul Museum of Art in South Korea – and is in collections of some of the most renowned museums in the world. I couldn’t be more excited to be interviewing her today. Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Kiki Smith

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most renowned artists living today, Adriana VarejãoBest known for her sculptural, almost architectural, paintings that extend far beyond the frame, Varejão has tackled themes of Brazilian cultural identity, challenged ideas of modern monuments, and in her art exposes colonial truths through traditional processes. Drawing upon the visual language of the European Baroque, Chinese Song ceramics as well as Brazilian and other South American traditions – just as she once said: interest lies in the interactions between different latitudes of the world.At once gory and theatrical, Varejão's work is all about what lies under the surface – literally – under the layers of canvas or plaster but also metaphorically, asking whose stories are being hidden, what violence is being covered up. She has exhibited all over the world with major exhibitions in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, at the ICA in Boston, and in 2016 designed the Brazilian Olympic Aquatics Stadium. Today, Varejão's practice continues to break ground in how we interpret cross-global intersections and ideas.Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview one of the most renowned artists living today, Adriana Varejão Best known for her sculptural, almost architectural, paintings that extend far beyond the frame, Varejão has tackled themes of Brazilian cultural identity, challenged ideas of modern monuments, and in her art exposes colonial truths through traditional processes. Drawing upon the visual language of the European Baroque, Chinese Song ceramics as well as Brazilian and other South American traditions – just as she once said: interest lies in the interactions between different latitudes of the world. At once gory and theatrical, Varejão's work is all about what lies under the surface – literally – under the layers of canvas or plaster but also metaphorically, asking whose stories are being hidden, what violence is being covered up. She has exhibited all over the world with major exhibitions in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, at the ICA in Boston, and in 2016 designed the Brazilian Olympic Aquatics Stadium. Today, Varejão's practice continues to break ground in how we interpret cross-global intersections and ideas. Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Adriana Varejão

Marilyn Minter

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview the renowned painter, photographer and filmmaker, Marylin Minter! A legend on the New York art scene for over 50 years, Marylin Minter is a pioneer of electrically graphic, photorealist paintings which take the form of some of the most criticised elements of culture – from high fashion to female desire – and explore how advertising and the the media have set the stereotypes of beauty, behaviour and sexuality…Cropping her images, and zooming in on highly charged – at time erotic – images, Minter’s brightly saturated paintings of a tongue or high-heel are highly ambiguous in both subject and aesthetic value. From the contradictory questions around, is it beautiful? Is it abject, is it pretty or is it dirty? The work almost forms into an abstraction – with acidic tones and hazy finishes – making it unclear as to whether we are looking at a photograph or painting…Minter doesn’t stop at traditional art: she has taken to the mainstream and made works to appear on Times Square billboards or the backdrop of a Madonna concert. She is invested in all forms of culture, assessing wherever art has become disregarded and interpreted as low culture, opening up the question even wider… Born in Louisiana, Minter Grew up in and attended university in Florida, and it was when studying when she embarked on her first well known photographic series of her mother – swept up in the impossible fantasy of glamour – that she was praised by the late Diane Arbus, who at the time was a visiting tutor. In the 70s, Minter moved to NYC. Settling in the East Village scene, she challenged how both popular media and pop art treated women as unrealistic – as subjects of comparison rather than real people, in subjects often considered “debased”. She has since exhibited across the globe, and this Spring will open a new exhibition at LGDR featuring portraits of the likes of Lizzo to Lady Gaga, Gloria Steinem to Monica Lewinsky. And I can’t wait to find out more. Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, I interview the renowned painter, photographer and filmmaker, Marylin Minter!  A legend on the New York art scene for over 50 years, Marylin Minter is a pioneer of electrically graphic, photorealist paintings which take the form of some of the most criticised elements of culture – from high fashion to female desire – and explore how advertising and the the media have set the stereotypes of beauty, behaviour and sexuality… Cropping her images, and zooming in on highly charged – at time erotic – images, Minter’s brightly saturated paintings of a tongue or high-heel are highly ambiguous in both subject and aesthetic value. From the contradictory questions around, is it beautiful? Is it abject, is it pretty or is it dirty? The work almost forms into an abstraction – with acidic tones and hazy finishes – making it unclear as to whether we are looking at a photograph or painting… Minter doesn’t stop at traditional art: she has taken to the mainstream and made works to appear on Times Square billboards or the backdrop of a Madonna concert. She is invested in all forms of culture, assessing wherever art has become disregarded and interpreted as low culture, opening up the question even wider…  Born in Louisiana, Minter Grew up in and attended university in Florida, and it was when studying when she embarked on her first well known photographic series of her mother – swept up in the impossible fantasy of glamour – that she was praised by the late Diane Arbus, who at the time was a visiting tutor.  In the 70s, Minter moved to NYC. Settling in the East Village scene, she challenged how both popular media and pop art treated women as unrealistic – as subjects of comparison rather than real people, in subjects often considered “debased”. She has since exhibited across the globe, and this Spring will open a new exhibition at LGDR featuring portraits of the likes of Lizzo to Lady Gaga, Gloria Steinem to Monica Lewinsky. And I can’t wait to find out more.  Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Siri Hustvedt

Louise Bourgeois

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, we interview the acclaimed novelist, essayist and author of 18 books, SIRI HUSTVEDT!From memoir to poetry, non-fiction to fiction, Hustvedt’s writing has touched on the topics of psychoanalysis, philosophy, neuroscience, literature, and art. Long-listed for the Booker Prize and winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction, Hustvedt’s The Blazing World is a provocative novel about an artist, Harriet Burden, who after years of being ignored attempts to reveal the misogyny in art by asking three male friends to exhibit her work under their name. It is of course a triumph, and other bestsellers include What I Loved and The Summer Without Men. Born in Northfield, Minnesota to a Norwegian mother and an American father, and based in NYC since 1978, it wasn’t until 1995 that Hustvedt began writing about art. Since then, her art writing oeuvre has expanded enormously with numerous books and essays published to acclaim – which often focus on the fate of female artists in history, the biases of history making, and discuss the likes of Louise Bourgeois, Alice Neel, Adrian Piper, Lee Krasner, Betye Saar, Joan Mitchell, Dora Maar, among others – which I can’t wait to get into later on in this episode… Hustvedt’s writing is both eye-opening and groundbreaking. She has questioned how we measure greatness, if art has a gender, the effect of art and literature existing in our memory and the future of fiction. She has looked at the masculine traits of the mind and the female traits of emotion, the domestic vs the intellectual, and analysed how historians have not just told the narrative of art, but the narrative of the world. She has asked why absence is so prevalent and explored how women have reconfigured the body after years of what she calls ‘fictive’ spaces… I love her writing and it’s allowed me to unlock elements (and see things differently) in books, art, and more that exist in my memory. Favourite books include A Woman Looking at Men Looking At Women: Essays on Art, Sex and the Mind and, more recently, Mothers, Fathers and Others – which is part memoir, part psychological study. So I couldn’t be more delighted to have her on the podcast today. Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, we interview the acclaimed novelist, essayist and author of 18 books, SIRI HUSTVEDT! From memoir to poetry, non-fiction to fiction, Hustvedt’s writing has touched on the topics of psychoanalysis, philosophy, neuroscience, literature, and art. Long-listed for the Booker Prize and winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction, Hustvedt’s The Blazing World is a provocative novel about an artist, Harriet Burden, who after years of being ignored attempts to reveal the misogyny in art by asking three male friends to exhibit her work under their name. It is of course a triumph, and other bestsellers include What I Loved and The Summer Without Men. Born in Northfield, Minnesota to a Norwegian mother and an American father, and based in NYC since 1978, it wasn’t until 1995 that Hustvedt began writing about art. Since then, her art writing oeuvre has expanded enormously with numerous books and essays published to acclaim – which often focus on the fate of female artists in history, the biases of history making, and discuss the likes of Louise Bourgeois, Alice Neel, Adrian Piper, Lee Krasner, Betye Saar, Joan Mitchell, Dora Maar, among others – which I can’t wait to get into later on in this episode… Hustvedt’s writing is both eye-opening and groundbreaking. She has questioned how we measure greatness, if art has a gender, the effect of art and literature existing in our memory and the future of fiction. She has looked at the masculine traits of the mind and the female traits of emotion, the domestic vs the intellectual, and analysed how historians have not just told the narrative of art, but the narrative of the world. She has asked why absence is so prevalent and explored how women have reconfigured the body after years of what she calls ‘fictive’ spaces… I love her writing and it’s allowed me to unlock elements (and see things differently) in books, art, and more that exist in my memory. Favourite books include A Woman Looking at Men Looking At Women: Essays on Art, Sex and the Mind and, more recently, Mothers, Fathers and Others – which is part memoir, part psychological study. So I couldn’t be more delighted to have her on the podcast today. Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Siri Hustvedt on Artemisia Gentileschi, Louise Bourgeois, and more

Sarah Sze

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, we interview one of the most renowned artists working today, SARAH SZE!Working across sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, video, and installation – and the culmination of them – Sze’s creations often take the form of a planetarium, a colosseum, a work-in-progress laboratory. Often held up by precarious stick-like structures and formed around everyday objects (and, more recently, moving images), her works behave – for me – as the greatest visual microcosm for the information and images inundating today’s fast moving, internet-filled world. In dialogue with art historical predecessors who worked with the readymade at the start of the 20th century – as well as challenging traditions in genres, such as the still life – Sze borrows from everyday materials. These include wire, congealed paint, tape measures, scissors, newspapers – as well as images and films taken on her iPhone as if to give prominence to mundane, mass-produced objects. Born in Boston, Sze earned a BA from Yale University and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts. Already when she was just in graduate school, an exhibition at MoMA PS1 saw her transform both the museum and sculpture itself. This quickly progressed to Sze working with projections and objects – from plastic water bottles to razor blades, q-tips and ladders – and work on an immersive scale that activated the viewer to be part of the time-based work, as well as challenging the notions that everything in her artworks is actually what is used to require to make the piece itself. In 2003, she was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship; in 2012 she took over New York’s High Line; in 2013 she represented the US at the Venice Biennale; in 2017, her permanent mural “Blueprint for a Landscape” opened at the 96th Street station of the Second Avenue subway in Manhattan. Last month she opened a monumental exhibition titled “Timelapse” at the Guggenheim, and next month will transform a disused Victorian waiting room at Peckham Rye station in London into an installation commissioned by Artangel. FURTHER LINKS!https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/sarah-sze-timelapse https://www.victoria-miro.com/artists/33-sarah-sze/ https://gagosian.com/artists/sarah-sze/ https://www.artangel.org.uk/project/sarah-sze/ https://www.ted.com/talks/sarah_sze_how_we_experience_time_and_memory_through_art#t-542032Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselResearch assistant: Viva RuggiSound editing by Mikaela CarmichaelArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: https://ocula.com/

THIS WEEK on the GWA Podcast, we interview one of the most renowned artists working today, SARAH SZE! Working across sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, video, and installation – and the culmination of them – Sze’s creations often take the form of a planetarium, a colosseum, a work-in-progress laboratory. Often held up by precarious stick-like structures and formed around everyday objects (and, more recently, moving images), her works behave – for me – as the greatest visual microcosm for the information and images inundating today’s fast moving, internet-filled world. In dialogue with art historical predecessors who worked with the readymade at the start of the 20th century – as well as challenging traditions in genres, such as the still life – Sze borrows from everyday materials. These include wire, congealed paint, tape measures, scissors, newspapers – as well as images and films taken on her iPhone as if to give prominence to mundane, mass-produced objects. Born in Boston, Sze earned a BA from Yale University and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts. Already when she was just in graduate school, an exhibition at MoMA PS1 saw her transform both the museum and sculpture itself. This quickly progressed to Sze working with projections and objects – from plastic water bottles to razor blades, q-tips and ladders – and work on an immersive scale that activated the viewer to be part of the time-based work, as well as challenging the notions that everything in her artworks is actually what is used to require to make the piece itself. In 2003, she was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship; in 2012 she took over New York’s High Line; in 2013 she represented the US at the Venice Biennale; in 2017, her permanent mural “Blueprint for a Landscape” opened at the 96th Street station of the Second Avenue subway in Manhattan. Last month she opened a monumental exhibition titled “Timelapse” at the Guggenheim, and next month will transform a disused Victorian waiting room at Peckham Rye station in London into an installation commissioned by Artangel. FURTHER LINKS! <a href="https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/sarah-sze-timelapse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/sarah-sze-timelapse</a> <a href="https://www.victoria-miro.com/artists/33-sarah-sze/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.victoria-miro.com/artists/33-sarah-sze/</a> <a href="https://gagosian.com/artists/sarah-sze/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://gagosian.com/artists/sarah-sze/</a> <a href="https://www.artangel.org.uk/project/sarah-sze/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artangel.org.uk/project/sarah-sze/</a> <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/sarah_sze_how_we_experience_time_and_memory_through_art#t-542032" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.ted.com/talks/sarah_sze_how_we_experience_time_and_memory_through_art#t-542032</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Research assistant: Viva Ruggi Sound editing by Mikaela Carmichael Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a> THIS EPISODE IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY OCULA: <a href="https://ocula.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ocula.com/</a>

Created off the back of @thegreatwomenartists Instagram, this podcast is all about celebrating women artists. Presented by art historian and curator, Katy Hessel, this podcast interviews artists on their career, or curators, writers, or general art lovers, on the female artist who means the most to them.

THE definitive podcast about female artists produced with wonderful energy and spirit.

A podcast changing art history

Love this pod so much, really insightful and inspiring!!

Fascinating

The Great Women Artists

Frances Morris

Agnes Martin

In Episode 08 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the Director of Tate Modern, FRANCES MORRIS (!), on the mammoth American abstract painter, AGNES MARTIN!!And WOW, is it incredible to hear such a groundbreaking curator speak SO passionately and eloquently about one of the greatest abstract painters to ever live. With a career that spanned five decades, Agnes Martin was known for her square canvases and meticulously rendered grids that translated into some of the most otherworldly pieces of art.Born in 1912, she grew up in rural Canada surrounded by nature before relocating to New York, where she worked alongside the Abstract Expressionists. In 1968 she relocated back to rural life and later settled in New Mexico, where she lived in monk-like conditions, painting everyday, up until her death in 2004.We discuss Frances's first-hand experiences with Martin's work; how she feels in front of one of her sublime paintings; what led her to curate such a spectacular exhibition in 2015; and of course, what the great artist taught her – ultimately, to look.It was such a privilege to speak to Frances Morris on Agnes Martin, and to hear such a personal response to a great artist. I hope you enjoy!! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEMorning, 1965https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-morning-t01866Friendship, 1963https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79842On A Clear Day, 1973https://www.moma.org/collection/works/63682Happy Holiday, 1999https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-happy-holiday-ar00179Further informationFrances's Tate exhibition: https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/agnes-martinShort film by Tate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=902YXjchQskMary Lance's documentary on Agnes Martin: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/withmybacktotheworldThank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselRecorded by Joel PriceSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben WetherfieldThanks to Well Fray-Smithhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 08 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the Director of Tate Modern, FRANCES MORRIS (!), on the mammoth American abstract painter, AGNES MARTIN!! And WOW, is it incredible to hear such a groundbreaking curator speak SO passionately and eloquently about one of the greatest abstract painters to ever live. With a career that spanned five decades, Agnes Martin was known for her square canvases and meticulously rendered grids that translated into some of the most otherworldly pieces of art. Born in 1912, she grew up in rural Canada surrounded by nature before relocating to New York, where she worked alongside the Abstract Expressionists. In 1968 she relocated back to rural life and later settled in New Mexico, where she lived in monk-like conditions, painting everyday, up until her death in 2004. We discuss Frances's first-hand experiences with Martin's work; how she feels in front of one of her sublime paintings; what led her to curate such a spectacular exhibition in 2015; and of course, what the great artist taught her – ultimately, to look. It was such a privilege to speak to Frances Morris on Agnes Martin, and to hear such a personal response to a great artist. I hope you enjoy!!   WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE Morning, 1965 <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-morning-t01866" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-morning-t01866</a> Friendship, 1963 <a href="https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79842" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79842</a> On A Clear Day, 1973 <a href="https://www.moma.org/collection/works/63682" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/collection/works/63682</a> Happy Holiday, 1999 <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-happy-holiday-ar00179" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/martin-happy-holiday-ar00179</a> Further information Frances's Tate exhibition:  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/agnes-martin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/agnes-martin</a> Short film by Tate:  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=902YXjchQsk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=902YXjchQsk</a> Mary Lance's documentary on Agnes Martin:  <a href="https://vimeo.com/ondemand/withmybacktotheworld" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/ondemand/withmybacktotheworld</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Recorded by Joel Price Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield Thanks to Well Fray-Smith <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Frances Morris on Agnes Martin

Ami Bouhassane

In Episode 05 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews Ami Bouhassane on the life and work of her grandmother: the model turned surrealist, photographer, war correspondent and all-round 20th century artistic giant, LEE MILLER!!And WOW will this episode blow you away. Especially when you hear that Ami’s father, Antony Penrose, was unaware of his mother’s professional photographic life until after she passed away in 1977...Born in 1907, Lee Miller first entered the world of photography in New York after falling into the arms of Conde Nast on a Manhattan street. It didn't take long before she was already on her way to Paris, in particular the studio of Man Ray, with whom she created some of the most iconic surrealist photography.Fast forward to 1932 and she's back in NYC at the height of the depression where she excelled running her own commercial photographic studio. Off again, back to Paris via Egypt, and then the UK at the outbreak of World War II, where Lee quickly adopted the role of a war correspondent, photographing on the front line, but also ensuring that she was recording women’s contribution to the war. However life took a turn after witnessing some of the most horrific scenes that war was to bring.I couldn’t be more delighted to interview Ami on her grandmother who is one of the MOST remarkable artists to live, whose story needs to be told, AND whose work needs to be seen. We recorded the episode down at Farley's Farm, on the site of Miller’s former home, where where Ami and her father Antony continue to run the archive, gallery (that you can visit!), and ensure the legacy of the great Lee Miller. See more info here: https://www.farleyshouseandgallery.co.uk/WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODELee Miller's front cover for Voguehttps://bit.ly/2BwRqlDParis: Nudehttps://bit.ly/2pFRSuYEgypt: Portrait of Space, 1937https://bit.ly/2P5bZgRWorld War II images: https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/lee-millers-second-world-warFire Masks, Hampstead:https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2015/sep/19/lee-miller-a-womans-war-exhibition-imperial-war-museum-second-world-war-dachau-hitler#img-1Lee Miller's cookbook: https://www.leemiller.co.uk/article/Award-winning-book-Lee-Miller-A-Life-with-Food-Friends-amp-Recipes/pJV_ykrXKJusXwM7yD3-Hg..aFurther reading: http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/l/lee-miller/ https://www.eiderdownbooks.com/product-page/lee-miller-by-ami-bouhassaneThank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairukFollow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerSound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabelMusic by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 05 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews Ami Bouhassane on the life and work of her grandmother: the model turned surrealist, photographer, war correspondent and all-round 20th century artistic giant, LEE MILLER!! And WOW will this episode blow you away. Especially when you hear that Ami’s father, Antony Penrose, was unaware of his mother’s professional photographic life until after she passed away in 1977... Born in 1907, Lee Miller first entered the world of photography in New York after falling into the arms of Conde Nast on a Manhattan street. It didn't take long before she was already on her way to Paris, in particular the studio of Man Ray, with whom she created some of the most iconic surrealist photography. Fast forward to 1932 and she's back in NYC at the height of the depression where she excelled running her own commercial photographic studio. Off again, back to Paris via Egypt, and then the UK at the outbreak of World War II, where Lee quickly adopted the role of a war correspondent, photographing on the front line, but also ensuring that she was recording women’s contribution to the war. However life took a turn after witnessing some of the most horrific scenes that war was to bring. I couldn’t be more delighted to interview Ami on her grandmother who is one of the MOST remarkable artists to live, whose story needs to be told, AND whose work needs to be seen. We recorded the episode down at Farley's Farm, on the site of Miller’s former home, where where Ami and her father Antony continue to run the archive, gallery (that you can visit!), and ensure the legacy of the great Lee Miller. See more info here: <a href="https://www.farleyshouseandgallery.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.farleyshouseandgallery.co.uk/</a> WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE Lee Miller's front cover for Vogue <a href="https://bit.ly/2BwRqlD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2BwRqlD</a> Paris: Nude <a href="https://bit.ly/2pFRSuY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2pFRSuY</a> Egypt: Portrait of Space, 1937 <a href="https://bit.ly/2P5bZgR" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2P5bZgR</a> World War II images: <a href="https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/lee-millers-second-world-war" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/lee-millers-second-world-war</a> Fire Masks, Hampstead: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2015/sep/19/lee-miller-a-womans-war-exhibition-imperial-war-museum-second-world-war-dachau-hitler#img-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2015/sep/19/lee-miller-a-womans-war-exhibition-imperial-war-museum-second-world-war-dachau-hitler#img-1</a> Lee Miller's cookbook: <a href="https://www.leemiller.co.uk/article/Award-winning-book-Lee-Miller-A-Life-with-Food-Friends-amp-Recipes/pJV_ykrXKJusXwM7yD3-Hg..a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.leemiller.co.uk/article/Award-winning-book-Lee-Miller-A-Life-with-Food-Friends-amp-Recipes/pJV_ykrXKJusXwM7yD3-Hg..a</a> Further reading: <a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/l/lee-miller/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/l/lee-miller/</a> <a href="https://www.eiderdownbooks.com/product-page/lee-miller-by-ami-bouhassane" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eiderdownbooks.com/product-page/lee-miller-by-ami-bouhassane</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairuk Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Sound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabel Music by Ben Wetherfield

Ami Bouhassane on Lee Miller

Celia Paul

In Episode 12 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the foremost painters working in the world right now, CELIA PAUL!!And WOW was it incredible to record with Celia in her live-in studio – one of the most amazing places I have ever visited – which we discuss in great detail in the episode, as well as her extensive career. Known for her intimate and expressive portraits of people and places close to her, as well as her statuesque and monumental self portraits, Celia is one of Britain's most celebrated artists who is currently the subject of an unmissable exhibition at Victoria Miro Gallery in London (closes 20 December!). Born in 1959 in India, Celia moved to the UK with her family when she was five, and it was at age 16 that she was recognised by the Slade School of Art’s then director, Lawrence Gowing, who insisted she enrol at The Slade earlier than most, because of her precocious talent for painting. In this episode we discuss Celia's upbringing in India; what led her to become an artist; her experience living in London for the first time to study at The Slade; the act of portraiture; painting her family; and what it means to be a female artist today – who is often wrongly cast in the shadow of her male contemporaries. “I am not a portrait painter. If I’m anything, I have always been an autobiographer and a chronicler of my life and family”. This was one of the MOST interesting conversations I have ever had in my life, and I really hope you enjoy it. Not only is it such an insight into one of the greatest artists working today, but also a FASCINATING way to hear how an artist lives their life. If you want to see or read more, then do NOT miss her incredible exhibition at Victoria Miro: https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/If you want to find out more, read her unbelievably brilliant memoir, Self Portrait:https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/111/1118130/self-portrait/9781787331846.html(with a fantastic review by the one and only Zadie Smith: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/). WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE My Sisters In Mourning (2015–16)https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/1361Family Group, 1981https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/930Family Group, 1980https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/Further works – https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 12 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the foremost painters working in the world right now, CELIA PAUL!! And WOW was it incredible to record with Celia in her live-in studio – one of the most amazing places I have ever visited – which we discuss in great detail in the episode, as well as her extensive career.  Known for her intimate and expressive portraits of people and places close to her, as well as her statuesque and monumental self portraits, Celia is one of Britain's most celebrated artists who is currently the subject of an unmissable exhibition at Victoria Miro Gallery in London (closes 20 December!).  Born in 1959 in India, Celia moved to the UK with her family when she was five, and it was at age 16 that she was recognised by the Slade School of Art’s then director, Lawrence Gowing, who insisted she enrol at The Slade earlier than most, because of her precocious talent for painting.  In this episode we discuss Celia's upbringing in India; what led her to become an artist; her experience living in London for the first time to study at The Slade; the act of portraiture; painting her family; and what it means to be a female artist today – who is often wrongly cast in the shadow of her male contemporaries.  “I am not a portrait painter. If I’m anything, I have always been an autobiographer and a chronicler of my life and family”. This was one of the MOST interesting conversations I have ever had in my life, and I really hope you enjoy it. Not only is it such an insight into one of the greatest artists working today, but also a FASCINATING way to hear how an artist lives their life.  If you want to see or read more, then do NOT miss her incredible exhibition at Victoria Miro: <a href="https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/</a> If you want to find out more, read her unbelievably brilliant memoir, Self Portrait: <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/111/1118130/self-portrait/9781787331846.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/111/1118130/self-portrait/9781787331846.html</a> (with a fantastic review by the one and only Zadie Smith: <a href="https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/</a>). WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE  My Sisters In Mourning (2015–16) <a href="https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/1361" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/1361</a> Family Group, 1981 <a href="https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/930" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.victoria-miro.com/news/930</a> Family Group, 1980 <a href="https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/11/21/muse-easel-celia-paul-lucian-freud/</a> Further works – <a href="https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.victoria-miro.com/exhibitions/548/</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Zoe Whitley

In Episode 13 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most important and groundbreaking curators working today, Dr Zoe Whitley on BETYE SAAR!!And WOW was it incredible to record with Zoe at London's Hayward Gallery – where she is senior curator – to discuss the life and work of the now 93 year-old Betye, who featured in Zoe's 2017 Tate Modern (and now touring) exhibition, SOUL OF A NATION! Betye Saar is one of the most important artists in contemporary art, and currently has solo exhibitions on right now at both MoMA and LACMA! Known for her political collages and assemblages of found objects that mix surreal symbolic imagery with a folk art aesthetic, Saar has contributed enormously to the history of art from her involvement with the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s and 70s, right up to the present day.Growing up in the 30s and 40s in Los Angeles, Saar was inspired by Joseph Cornell’s assemblages and Simon Rodia’s “Watts Towers” nearby to where she grew up made from found scrap materials. Raised by strong women who always encouraged her creativity, as well as identity as a black woman, Saar’s work predominately critiques American racism toward blacks. It was in the 1960s that she began collecting images of stereotypes African-American figures from folk culture and advertising of the Jim Crow era, which she transformed into figures of political protest. A work we discuss in depth is “The Liberation of Aunt Jemima” which remains one of her most important works from this era (also exhibited at Zoe's incredible “Soul of a Nation”), a mixed-media assemblage which uses the stereotypical figure of the ‘mammy’ to subvert traditions of race and gender. Speaking about the work she said: “I feel that The Liberation of Aunt Jemima is my iconic art piece. I had no idea she would become so important to so many. The reason I created her was to combat bigotry and racism and today she stills serves as my warrior against those ills of our society.”She is INCREDIBLE, and a force. And Zoe's enthusiasm, personal approach and expertise in Betye Saar is SO inspiring!!! If you want to see more then DO NOT miss Zoe's co-curated "Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power 1963–1983" currently on view at San Francisco's de Young Museum (https://deyoung.famsf.org/exhibitions/soul-of-a-nation); and for those in LA and NYC don't miss her show at MoMA (https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5060) and LACMA (https://www.lacma.org/art/exhibition/betye-saar-call-and-response). . GO BETYE!Works discussed in this episode/ Further reading Black Girls Window (1969)https://www.moma.org/audio/playlist/302The Liberation of Aunt Jemima (1972)http://revolution.berkeley.edu/liberation-aunt-jemima/Soul of a Nation at Tate Modernhttps://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/soul-nation-art-age-black-powerHere is also an incredible essay recently published in the NY Timeshttps://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/04/arts/design/betye-saar.htmlThank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselRecorded by Joel PriceSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 13 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most important and groundbreaking curators working today, Dr Zoe Whitley on BETYE SAAR!! And WOW was it incredible to record with Zoe at London's Hayward Gallery – where she is senior curator – to discuss the life and work of the now 93 year-old Betye, who featured in Zoe's 2017 Tate Modern (and now touring) exhibition, SOUL OF A NATION!  Betye Saar is one of the most important artists in contemporary art, and currently has solo exhibitions on right now at both MoMA and LACMA! Known for her political collages and assemblages of found objects that mix surreal symbolic imagery with a folk art aesthetic, Saar has contributed enormously to the history of art from her involvement with the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s and 70s, right up to the present day. Growing up in the 30s and 40s in Los Angeles, Saar was inspired by Joseph Cornell’s assemblages and Simon Rodia’s “Watts Towers” nearby to where she grew up made from found scrap materials.   Raised by strong women who always encouraged her creativity, as well as identity as a black woman, Saar’s work predominately critiques American racism toward blacks. It was in the 1960s that she began collecting images of stereotypes African-American figures from folk culture and advertising of the Jim Crow era, which she transformed into figures of political protest.   A work we discuss in depth is “The Liberation of Aunt Jemima” which remains one of her most important works from this era (also exhibited at Zoe's incredible “Soul of a Nation”), a mixed-media assemblage which uses the stereotypical figure of the ‘mammy’ to subvert traditions of race and gender.   Speaking about the work she said: “I feel that The Liberation of Aunt Jemima is my iconic art piece. I had no idea she would become so important to so many. The reason I created her was to combat bigotry and racism and today she stills serves as my warrior against those ills of our society.” She is INCREDIBLE, and a force. And Zoe's enthusiasm, personal approach and expertise in Betye Saar is SO inspiring!!!   If you want to see more then DO NOT miss Zoe's co-curated "Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power 1963–1983" currently on view at San Francisco's de Young Museum (<a href="https://deyoung.famsf.org/exhibitions/soul-of-a-nation);" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://deyoung.famsf.org/exhibitions/soul-of-a-nation);</a> and for those in LA and NYC don't miss her show at MoMA (<a href="https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5060" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5060</a>) and LACMA (<a href="https://www.lacma.org/art/exhibition/betye-saar-call-and-response" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.lacma.org/art/exhibition/betye-saar-call-and-response</a>). . GO BETYE! Works discussed in this episode/ Further reading Black Girls Window (1969) <a href="https://www.moma.org/audio/playlist/302The" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/audio/playlist/302The</a> Liberation of Aunt Jemima (1972) <a href="http://revolution.berkeley.edu/liberation-aunt-jemima/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://revolution.berkeley.edu/liberation-aunt-jemima/</a> Soul of a Nation at Tate Modern <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/soul-nation-art-age-black-power" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/soul-nation-art-age-black-power</a> Here is also an incredible essay recently published in the NY Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/04/arts/design/betye-saar.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/04/arts/design/betye-saar.html</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Recorded by Joel Price Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Zoe Whitley on Betye Saar

Es Devlin

In Episode 02 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the sensational artist and stage designer, ES DEVLIN!!Known for creating some of the most memorable sets and stages the world has ever seen – including for the likes of Beyonce, Adele and Kanye West – Es is also world-renowned for her theatre and opera sets for The National Theatre to the Royal Opera House.Revolutionising the stage with her iconic and memorable sculptures, projections and cubes, Es also embarks on her own artworks including her Mirror Mazes, AI-generated poetry sculptures, and Memory Palaces, the latter of which is currently on view at Pitzhanger Manor. See more here: https://www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/current-events-exhibitions/In this episode we discuss Es’s role to impact the collective memory of 100,000 people at one time; bringing words and music to life through sculpture and sets; her upbringing in Rye and influences as a child; as well as going through her PHENOMENAL works that I really find to be some of the most emotional I've ever witnessed. She's amazing. Have a listen!WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:Mirror Maze at Copeland Park (2016)www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMbLlN_6AD8Hamlet at Barbican (2015) esdevlin.com/work/hamlet-barbicanLehman Trilogy at National Theatre (2018/19)www.wallpaper.com/design/es-devlin…ilogy-sam-mendesBeyonce's Formation Tour (2016)esdevlin.com/work/beyonceKanye West x Jay Z Tour (2013)www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/20…w-for-kanye-westAdele World Arena Tour (2016) esdevlin.com/work/adele-world-tourCamen at Bregenz Festival (2018) esdevlin.com/work/carmen-bregenzUK Pavilion – Dubai Expo (2020)esdevlin.com/work/uk-pavillionPlease Feed The Lions (2018)esdevlin.com/work/lionsMemory Palace at Pitzhanger (2019)www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/curre…s-exhibitions/This is the Rye model! https://www.ryeheritage.co.uk/rye-town-model/Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair. Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerSound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabelMusic by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 02 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the sensational artist and stage designer, ES DEVLIN!! Known for creating some of the most memorable sets and stages the world has ever seen – including for the likes of Beyonce, Adele and Kanye West – Es is also world-renowned for her theatre and opera sets for The National Theatre to the Royal Opera House. Revolutionising the stage with her iconic and memorable sculptures, projections and cubes, Es also embarks on her own artworks including her Mirror Mazes, AI-generated poetry sculptures, and Memory Palaces, the latter of which is currently on view at Pitzhanger Manor. See more here: <a href="https://www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/current-events-exhibitions/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/current-events-exhibitions/</a> In this episode we discuss Es’s role to impact the collective memory of 100,000 people at one time; bringing words and music to life through sculpture and sets; her upbringing in Rye and influences as a child; as well as going through her PHENOMENAL works that I really find to be some of the most emotional I've ever witnessed. She's amazing. Have a listen! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE: Mirror Maze at Copeland Park (2016) <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMbLlN_6AD8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMbLlN_6AD8</a> Hamlet at Barbican (2015) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/hamlet-barbican" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/hamlet-barbican</a> Lehman Trilogy at National Theatre (2018/19) <a href="http://www.wallpaper.com/design/es-devlin…ilogy-sam-mendes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.wallpaper.com/design/es-devlin…ilogy-sam-mendes</a> Beyonce's Formation Tour (2016) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/beyonce" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/beyonce</a> Kanye West x Jay Z Tour (2013) <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/20…w-for-kanye-west" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/20…w-for-kanye-west</a> Adele World Arena Tour (2016) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/adele-world-tour" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/adele-world-tour</a> Camen at Bregenz Festival (2018) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/carmen-bregenz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/carmen-bregenz</a> UK Pavilion – Dubai Expo (2020) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/uk-pavillion" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/uk-pavillion</a> Please Feed The Lions (2018) <a href="http://esdevlin.com/work/lions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esdevlin.com/work/lions</a> Memory Palace at Pitzhanger (2019) <a href="http://www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/curre…s-exhibitions/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.pitzhanger.org.uk/whats-on/curre…s-exhibitions/</a> This is the Rye model! <a href="https://www.ryeheritage.co.uk/rye-town-model/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.ryeheritage.co.uk/rye-town-model/</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair. Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Sound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabel Music by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 09 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant London-based artist, Helen Downie, who goes under the guise of UNSKILLED WORKER! A self-taught artist who first started painting aged 48 a mere six years ago, Unskilled Worker rose to prominence after posting her work online (instagram.com/unskilledworker), amassing nearly 300,000 Instagram followers, which led to designing collections for Gucci, and exhibiting at museums all over the world.Known for her intensely vibrant and poetic dreamlike canvases full of her very personal portrayals of people – from those in her imagination, to those who feature in her past and present – Unskilled Worker draws the viewer into a highly atmospheric world of childlike innocence. In this episode we discuss the artist's lifelong fascination with people; what led her to pick up a paintbrush age 48; picking up her subjects where she left off aged 14; painting Oscar Wilde to Radclyffe Hall; and how she learnt to live life as a painter – as well as dealing with such a dominant internet presence. It was an honour to interview the great painter, who also speaks very movingly about dealing with grief through painting – and how occasionally, those from her past who may have got lost along the way, appear on the page in front of her. WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEWhere's Tedhttps://www.instagram.com/p/BujBg5eDOqD/Faraway Boyhttps://www.instagram.com/p/BzLuy_sBUrv/The Arrivalhttps://www.instagram.com/p/Bvb9r3ujcQP/Self Portraithttps://www.instagram.com/p/BdXY9z2DgR3/An English Idyll 2https://www.instagram.com/p/BaMkZjpD0V5/Radclyffe Hall and Una – The Tiger That Lost His Stripeshttps://www.instagram.com/p/BXNwcaPD9ST/Oscar and Boesiehttps://www.instagram.com/p/BWprTZxDlv_/Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 09 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant London-based artist, Helen Downie, who goes under the guise of UNSKILLED WORKER!  A self-taught artist who first started painting aged 48 a mere six years ago, Unskilled Worker rose to prominence after posting her work online (<a href="http://instagram.com/unskilledworker" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">instagram.com/unskilledworker</a>), amassing nearly 300,000 Instagram followers, which led to designing collections for Gucci, and exhibiting at museums all over the world. Known for her intensely vibrant and poetic dreamlike canvases full of her very personal portrayals of people – from those in her imagination, to those who feature in her past and present – Unskilled Worker draws the viewer into a highly atmospheric world of childlike innocence. In this episode we discuss the artist's lifelong fascination with people; what led her to pick up a paintbrush age 48; picking up her subjects where she left off aged 14; painting Oscar Wilde to Radclyffe Hall; and how she learnt to live life as a painter – as well as dealing with such a dominant internet presence.   It was an honour to interview the great painter, who also speaks very movingly about dealing with grief through painting – and how occasionally, those from her past who may have got lost along the way, appear on the page in front of her.   WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE Where's Ted <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BujBg5eDOqD/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BujBg5eDOqD/</a> Faraway Boy <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzLuy_sBUrv/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BzLuy_sBUrv/</a> The Arrival <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvb9r3ujcQP/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvb9r3ujcQP/</a> Self Portrait <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdXY9z2DgR3/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BdXY9z2DgR3/</a> An English Idyll 2 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BaMkZjpD0V5/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BaMkZjpD0V5/</a> Radclyffe Hall and Una – The Tiger That Lost His Stripes <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BXNwcaPD9ST/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BXNwcaPD9ST/</a> Oscar and Boesie <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWprTZxDlv_/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/p/BWprTZxDlv_/</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Unskilled Worker

In Episode 18 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the world-renowned Irish artist, GENIEVE FIGGIS!!And WOW was it amazing to interview Genieve, whose vibrant, loosely rendered, liquid-like works that reimagine classical scenes I have been SUCH a fan of since her inaugural London exhibition at Almine Rech back in 2015!Working in oil and acrylic and at small- to mid-scale, Genieve Figgis produces paintings rich in color, texture, and humor. Striking the balance between figuration, her marble-style and liquid-like paintings are reminiscent of the 18th century Rococo style. Born in Dublin and now based in County Wicklow, Figgis was always interested in art, however it wasn’t until she was in her thirties with two small children, that she completed her art education in 2012. Exhibiting across Dublin galleries, it wasn’t until Figgis used Twitter to display her artwork in 2014, which caught the attention of one artist in particular – Richard Prince – who introduced Figgis to the New York art scene.Often reimagining and re-staging historical works – from Boucher, Fragonard, and Watteau – Figgis is particularly interested in scenes that feature sumptuous domestic interiors and stately country homes. It was such an honour to get to know and interview Genieve. We chat about everything from her strict Irish Catholic upbringing, what it was like entering a museum for the first time aged 19, going to art school later on in life, her ideas and interests behind her incredible painterly scenes, to her process and being an artist today. See more of Genieve's work here: https://www.genievefiggis.com/Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://www.artfund.org/katy-hesselTo receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Amber Miller (@amber_m.iller)Artwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 18 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the world-renowned Irish artist, GENIEVE FIGGIS!! And WOW was it amazing to interview Genieve, whose vibrant, loosely rendered, liquid-like works that reimagine classical scenes I have been SUCH a fan of since her inaugural London exhibition at Almine Rech back in 2015! Working in oil and acrylic and at small- to mid-scale, Genieve Figgis produces paintings rich in color, texture, and humor. Striking the balance between figuration, her marble-style and liquid-like paintings are reminiscent of the 18th century Rococo style.   Born in Dublin and now based in County Wicklow, Figgis was always interested in art, however it wasn’t until she was in her thirties with two small children, that she completed her art education in 2012. Exhibiting across Dublin galleries, it wasn’t until Figgis used Twitter to display her artwork in 2014, which caught the attention of one artist in particular – Richard Prince – who introduced Figgis to the New York art scene. Often reimagining and re-staging historical works – from Boucher, Fragonard, and Watteau – Figgis is particularly interested in scenes that feature sumptuous domestic interiors and stately country homes. It was such an honour to get to know and interview Genieve. We chat about everything from her strict Irish Catholic upbringing, what it was like entering a museum for the first time aged 19, going to art school later on in life, her ideas and interests behind her incredible painterly scenes, to her process and being an artist today.  See more of Genieve's work here:  <a href="https://www.genievefiggis.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.genievefiggis.com/</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Amber Miller (@amber_m.iller) Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Genieve Figgis

In Episode 04 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most highly regarded young artists working today, the Harlem-born painter, TSCHABALALA SELF!!A graduate of the Yale School of Art and a recent participant of the AMAZING Studio Museum Residency, the brilliant Tschabalala is known for her expressive, vibrant and dynamic works of human figure, that combines paint, printmaking, collage and sculpture. With her primary concern centred on the black female body, Self explores subjects around race, gender, and identity through powerful and bold images of women.In this episode we discuss Tschabalala's beginnings in Harlem, the place that has culturally shaped who she is today and the impact it's had on her work; the artists who continue to inspire her – from Faith Ringgold, Kehinde Wiley and Clementine Hunter; the stories behind the figures and the 'settings' she places them in; her artistic process; interests in the environment that surrounds her characters, in particular the bodega; and her previous and current exhibitions – one of which, "Thigh High" is on right now at Pilar Corrias Gallery in London.She is SO brilliant and SO interesting, and I couldn't be more honoured to interview someone right at the forefront of their career. She's killing it. ENJOY!!WORKS / EXHIBITIONS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:Bodega Run – The Hammer, LA: https://hammer.ucla.edu/exhibitions/2019/hammer-projects-tschabalala-self/Pila Corrias, London: https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-bodega-run/Thigh High – Currently on view at Pilar Corrias, until 9 November: https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self/Tschabalala Self –Parasol Unit, 2017: https://parasol-unit.org/whats-on/tschabalala-self/Studio Museum Residency: https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5086Upcoming exhibitions: ICA Boston – https://www.icaboston.org/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-out-bodyArtists discussed include: Faith Ringgold, Mickalene Thomas, Wangechi Mutu, Clementine HunterThank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairukFollow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerSound editing by @_ellieclifford / @_naomiabelMusic by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 04 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most highly regarded young artists working today, the Harlem-born painter, TSCHABALALA SELF!! A graduate of the Yale School of Art and a recent participant of the AMAZING Studio Museum Residency, the brilliant Tschabalala is known for her expressive, vibrant and dynamic works of human figure, that combines paint, printmaking, collage and sculpture. With her primary concern centred on the black female body, Self explores subjects around race, gender, and identity through powerful and bold images of women. In this episode we discuss Tschabalala's beginnings in Harlem, the place that has culturally shaped who she is today and the impact it's had on her work; the artists who continue to inspire her – from Faith Ringgold, Kehinde Wiley and Clementine Hunter; the stories behind the figures and the 'settings' she places them in; her artistic process; interests in the environment that surrounds her characters, in particular the bodega; and her previous and current exhibitions – one of which, "Thigh High" is on right now at Pilar Corrias Gallery in London. She is SO brilliant and SO interesting, and I couldn't be more honoured to interview someone right at the forefront of their career. She's killing it. ENJOY!! WORKS / EXHIBITIONS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE: Bodega Run –  The Hammer, LA: <a href="https://hammer.ucla.edu/exhibitions/2019/hammer-projects-tschabalala-self/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://hammer.ucla.edu/exhibitions/2019/hammer-projects-tschabalala-self/</a> Pila Corrias, London: <a href="https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-bodega-run/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-bodega-run/</a> Thigh High –  Currently on view at Pilar Corrias, until 9 November: <a href="https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.pilarcorrias.com/exhibitions/tschabalala-self/</a> Tschabalala Self – Parasol Unit, 2017: <a href="https://parasol-unit.org/whats-on/tschabalala-self/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://parasol-unit.org/whats-on/tschabalala-self/</a> Studio Museum Residency: <a href="https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5086" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/5086</a> Upcoming exhibitions: ICA Boston –  <a href="https://www.icaboston.org/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-out-body" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.icaboston.org/exhibitions/tschabalala-self-out-body</a> Artists discussed include: Faith Ringgold, Mickalene Thomas, Wangechi Mutu, Clementine Hunter Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairuk Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Sound editing by @_ellieclifford / @_naomiabel Music by Ben Wetherfield

Tschabalala Self

Emma Lewis

Dora Maar

WELCOME BACK to SEASON 2 of The GWA Podcast!! In Episode 14 (or Ep1, S2!)  of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant Tate Modern curator, Emma Lewis on DORA MAAR!! And WOW was it incredible to record at Tate Modern where Emma has curated the HIGHLY critically acclaimed ~ and first ever UK retrospective ~ of the great French photographer and painter (on view until 15th March, don’t miss – https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar!!)Maar was one of the most celebrated Surrealist photographers who lived in Paris in the early half of the 20th century. She exhibited widely in the 1930s, featuring in all six Surrealist exhibitions around the world, yet why is it that she has only really been celebrated since her death in 1997!?After setting up a studio in her early 20s Maar THRIVED and earned herself some of the biggest commissions from the brands of her day, creating some of the most inventive and creative adverts for shampoo to anti-ageing cream. Always capturing the ‘modern woman’, Marr also ventured to the streets of London and Barcelona where she captured the surreal aspects of the every day.In 1935 she met Picasso, with whom she collaborated and taught photography – and ended up documenting the metamorphosis of Guernica. But it was in this relationship that she took up painting agin, capturing a very tense and painful few years through her work “The Conversation”, but it is also this work that Emma reveals majorly influenced her former lover...In this episode we learn just HOW pioneering, brilliant, and radical Maar was for her day; her constant influence on the surrealists (and Picasso...!); and life post 1946, where her post-War career took a turn and she ventured for the south of France. TUNE IN NOW. Further information: https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/dora-maar-15766/seven-things-know-dora-maarDora Maar EVENTS!Curator's talk with Emma Lewis at Tate Modern – https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/curators-talk-dora-maarPanel discussion at Tate modern – https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/surreal-nature-realityThank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: artfund.org/greatTo receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

WELCOME BACK to SEASON 2 of The GWA Podcast!! In Episode 14 (or Ep1, S2!)  of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant Tate Modern curator, Emma Lewis on DORA MAAR!!  And WOW was it incredible to record at Tate Modern where Emma has curated the HIGHLY critically acclaimed ~ and first ever UK retrospective ~ of the great French photographer and painter (on view until 15th March, don’t miss – <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar!!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar!!</a>) Maar was one of the most celebrated Surrealist photographers who lived in Paris in the early half of the 20th century. She exhibited widely in the 1930s, featuring in all six Surrealist exhibitions around the world, yet why is it that she has only really been celebrated since her death in 1997!? After setting up a studio in her early 20s Maar THRIVED and earned herself some of the biggest commissions from the brands of her day, creating some of the most inventive and creative adverts for shampoo to anti-ageing cream. Always capturing the ‘modern woman’, Marr also ventured to the streets of London and Barcelona where she captured the surreal aspects of the every day. In 1935 she met Picasso, with whom she collaborated and taught photography – and ended up documenting the metamorphosis of Guernica. But it was in this relationship that she took up painting agin, capturing a very tense and painful few years through her work “The Conversation”, but it is also this work that Emma reveals majorly influenced her former lover... In this episode we learn just HOW pioneering, brilliant, and radical Maar was for her day; her constant influence on the surrealists (and Picasso...!); and life post 1946, where her post-War career took a turn and she ventured for the south of France. TUNE IN NOW.  Further information:  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar</a> <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/dora-maar-15766/seven-things-know-dora-maar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/dora-maar-15766/seven-things-know-dora-maar</a> Dora Maar EVENTS! Curator's talk with Emma Lewis at Tate Modern –  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/curators-talk-dora-maar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/curators-talk-dora-maar</a> Panel discussion at Tate modern –  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/surreal-nature-reality" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/dora-maar/surreal-nature-reality</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="http://artfund.org/great" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">artfund.org/great</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Emma Lewis on Dora Maar

Chantal Joffe

Charlotte Salomon

In Episode 19 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most important painters in the world, CHANTAL JOFFE on the great artist CHARLOTTE SALOMON! And WOW was it amazing to interview Chantal in her London studio on Charlotte Salomon, the Jewish-born German artist who created one of the most important and powerful artworks of the 20th century, "Life? or Theatre?", which is currently on view at the Jewish Museum here in London: https://jewishmuseum.org.uk/exhibitions/charlotte-salomon/ Created between the years of 1941–43 when the young Salomon was living in Nice having escaped Berlin, "Life? or Theatre?" is a dramatised autobiography that uses sound, text, simple language, images, and music to give expression of Salomon’s struggle living in Berlin in the 1930s, and her experience during the war. It is the MOST moving, incredible, heartbreaking 'graphic novel' compiled of 769 small gouaches on paper which Salomon created when in hiding from Nazi oppressors. The work is essentially a self portrait; storyboard; or intimate visual narrative of the artist’s existence: from a complicated family life, growing up in Berlin, the rise of the Nazis, to her exile to France, and to what ultimately led to her impending fate: age 26, five months pregnant, in Auschwitz.This challenging masterpiece tells the story of her life, with death looming from the start. In pre-first world war Berlin, a young woman called Charlotte – the artist’s aunt who she’s named after – drowns herself, and as the story unfolds, we discover many more mental health issues and sadness in the artist’s family. But Charlotte carries on, as if always seeing the positive in this ever glooming light which seems madness to even be seen as real life, as emphasised by its title. Chantal speaks so beautifully in this episode, enlightening us about Charlotte and her experience visiting this week. Placing a particular emphasis on the redemptive power of art. When I asked Chantal why she thought the young Salomon created "Life? or Theatre?", she responded: "She just had no choice and the minute she's picked up, brush, she was safe. Suddenly it saved her and that's why we see such speed is in those drawings".Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://www.artfund.org/katy-hesselTo receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Amber Miller (@amber_m.iller)Artwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 19 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most important painters in the world, CHANTAL JOFFE on the great artist CHARLOTTE SALOMON!   And WOW was it amazing to interview Chantal in her London studio on Charlotte Salomon, the Jewish-born German artist who created one of the most important and powerful artworks of the 20th century, "Life? or Theatre?", which is currently on view at the Jewish Museum here in London: <a href="https://jewishmuseum.org.uk/exhibitions/charlotte-salomon/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jewishmuseum.org.uk/exhibitions/charlotte-salomon/</a> Created between the years of 1941–43 when the young Salomon was living in Nice having escaped Berlin, "Life? or Theatre?" is a dramatised autobiography that uses sound, text, simple language, images, and music to give expression of Salomon’s struggle living in Berlin in the 1930s, and her experience during the war. It is the MOST moving, incredible, heartbreaking 'graphic novel' compiled of 769 small gouaches on paper which Salomon created when in hiding from Nazi oppressors.  The work is essentially a self portrait; storyboard; or intimate visual narrative of the artist’s existence: from a complicated family life, growing up in Berlin, the rise of the Nazis, to her exile to France, and to what ultimately led to her impending fate: age 26, five months pregnant, in Auschwitz. This challenging masterpiece tells the story of her life, with death looming from the start. In pre-first world war Berlin, a young woman called Charlotte – the artist’s aunt who she’s named after – drowns herself, and as the story unfolds, we discover many more mental health issues and sadness in the artist’s family. But Charlotte carries on, as if always seeing the positive in this ever glooming light which seems madness to even be seen as real life, as emphasised by its title.  Chantal speaks so beautifully in this episode, enlightening us about Charlotte and her experience visiting this week. Placing a particular emphasis on the redemptive power of art. When I asked Chantal why she thought the young Salomon created "Life? or Theatre?", she responded: "She just had no choice and the minute she's picked up, brush, she was safe. Suddenly it saved her and that's why we see such speed is in those drawings". Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Amber Miller (@amber_m.iller) Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Chantal Joffe on Charlotte Salomon

Jadé Fadojutimi

In Episode 17 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most exciting young artists working in the world right now, JADÉ FADOJUTIMI !!And WOW was it amazing to record at Jadé's South London studio surrounded by her monumental works. She is SO brilliant and not only did we have so much fun recording this episode, but it is such a great insight to her work and also an honest experience being an artist.Working in painting and drawing, Jadé is known for her large-scale, vibrant and complex emotional landscapes that offer an insight into the artist’s quest for identity. Made up of loose, expressive and translucent brushstrokes, when witnessed in the flesh, the energy and conviction in her medium is completely infectious. A fairly recent graduate of The Slade School of Art, where she completed her BA, and the Royal College of Art, where she completed her MA in 2017, the London born and bred Jadé has since gone on to exhibit widely across the world, including shows at Pippy Houldsworth, PEER, and more! Despite only being 26, Jadé has received high critical acclaim for her paintings, and this summer, will be included in the upcoming Liverpool Biennial as well as having a solo exhibition in Japan. Speaking about her work, she has said ‘painting is like looking into a windowpane and seeing the reflection of her self, the context in which she lives, and the distorted fusion of the two’.  See more of Jadé's works here: http://jadefadojutimi.com/Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://www.artfund.org/katy-hesselTo receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 17 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most exciting young artists working in the world right now, JADÉ FADOJUTIMI !! And WOW was it amazing to record at Jadé's South London studio surrounded by her monumental works. She is SO brilliant and not only did we have so much fun recording this episode, but it is such a great insight to her work and also an honest experience being an artist. Working in painting and drawing, Jadé is known for her large-scale, vibrant and complex emotional landscapes that offer an insight into the artist’s quest for identity. Made up of loose, expressive and translucent brushstrokes, when witnessed in the flesh, the energy and conviction in her medium is completely infectious.  A fairly recent graduate of The Slade School of Art, where she completed her BA, and the Royal College of Art, where she completed her MA in 2017, the London born and bred Jadé has since gone on to exhibit widely across the world, including shows at Pippy Houldsworth, PEER, and more! Despite only being 26, Jadé has received high critical acclaim for her paintings, and this summer, will be included in the upcoming Liverpool Biennial as well as having a solo exhibition in Japan. Speaking about her work, she has said ‘painting is like looking into a windowpane and seeing the reflection of her self, the context in which she lives, and the distorted fusion of the two’.   See more of Jadé's works here:  <a href="http://jadefadojutimi.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://jadefadojutimi.com/</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Maggi Hambling

In Episode 11 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the legendary British painter and sculptor, MAGGI HAMBLING!And WOW was it fun (and definitely an experience!) to visit the very brilliant Maggi in her South London studio to speak about her extensive and incredible five decades-and-counting career.Known for her portraits of the likes of comedian Max Wall to chemist Dorothy Hodgkin, sublime depictions of seascapes, public sculptures that include a 4-metre high steel 'Scallop' on Aldeburgh Beach, Maggi is always one to give her viewer some sort of immediate reaction, whether that be physical, emotional, or at times, controversial.Born in 1945, Maggi grew up in rural Suffolk with her two older siblings – which we discuss weren't particularly happy about her being a girl – before going on to study under Cedric Morris and Lett Haines, and later Camberwell, and the Slade School of Art.In this episode – which starts with a little surprise – we discuss the artist's upbringing and beginnings with art, what led her to become top in her class age 15, her time being the first artist in residence at London’s National Gallery in 1980, to painting the truth in comedians, dealing with grief through painting (referencing her nickname Maggi "coffin" Hambling!), and how it was through art that she could 'get closer to the man in the street'.This was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Maggi is not just a brilliant artist but a hilarious person who tells tales from her fascinating career, all whilst smoking at least nine or so cigarettes over the course of our interview – listen out for the lighters! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE Dorothy Hodgkin, 1985https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw07497/Dorothy-HodgkinMax Wall, 1981 https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-max-wall-and-his-image-t03542Stephen Fry, 1993https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw09544/Stephen-FryFather, Late December, 1997 https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-father-late-december-1997-t07835Film of Maggi by Tate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4-4Syn1pmEFurther reading on her seascapes: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4px9CyGCzjPWBYKFn8BgmXC/stormy-waters-maggi-hambling-returns-to-the-nationalThank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselRecorded by Joel PriceSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 11 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the legendary British painter and sculptor, MAGGI HAMBLING! And WOW was it fun (and definitely an experience!) to visit the very brilliant Maggi in her South London studio to speak about her extensive and incredible five decades-and-counting career. Known for her portraits of the likes of comedian Max Wall to chemist Dorothy Hodgkin, sublime depictions of seascapes, public sculptures that include a 4-metre high steel 'Scallop' on Aldeburgh Beach, Maggi is always one to give her viewer some sort of immediate reaction, whether that be physical, emotional, or at times, controversial. Born in 1945, Maggi grew up in rural Suffolk with her two older siblings – which we discuss weren't particularly happy about her being a girl – before going on to study under Cedric Morris and Lett Haines, and later Camberwell, and the Slade School of Art. In this episode – which starts with a little surprise – we discuss the artist's upbringing and beginnings with art, what led her to become top in her class age 15, her time being the first artist in residence at London’s National Gallery in 1980, to painting the truth in comedians, dealing with grief through painting (referencing her nickname Maggi "coffin" Hambling!), and how it was through art that she could 'get closer to the man in the street'. This was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Maggi is not just a brilliant artist but a hilarious person who tells tales from her fascinating career, all whilst smoking at least nine or so cigarettes over the course of our interview – listen out for the lighters! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE  Dorothy Hodgkin, 1985 <a href="https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw07497/Dorothy-Hodgkin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw07497/Dorothy-Hodgkin</a> Max Wall, 1981  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-max-wall-and-his-image-t03542" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-max-wall-and-his-image-t03542</a> Stephen Fry, 1993 <a href="https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw09544/Stephen-Fry" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw09544/Stephen-Fry</a> Father, Late December, 1997  <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-father-late-december-1997-t07835" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hambling-father-late-december-1997-t07835</a> Film of Maggi by Tate:  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4-4Syn1pmE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4-4Syn1pmE</a> Further reading on her seascapes:  <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4px9CyGCzjPWBYKFn8BgmXC/stormy-waters-maggi-hambling-returns-to-the-national" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4px9CyGCzjPWBYKFn8BgmXC/stormy-waters-maggi-hambling-returns-to-the-national</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Recorded by Joel Price Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Iwona Blazwick

In Episode 10 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the legendary Director of Whitechapel Gallery IWONA BLAZWICK on the radical Brazilian artist ANNA MARIA MAIOLINO!!And WOW is it incredible to hear one of the most important curators in the WORLD today speaking so passionately about one of the greatest Latin American artists – who also has an unmissable exhibition on right now at Whitechapel Gallery. With a career spanning five decades and counting, 77 year-old Maiolino works across a multitude of mediums including performance, photography, and sculpture. Born in Italy during WW2, Maiolino emigrated to Venezuela and then Brazil, where she lived in extreme politically unstable times under a dictatorship. But this fuelled Maiolino to make art that reflected these times: hidden away from the authorities, and challenging what it really meant to be a woman in this environment. Known for her blindfolded performances where she avoided treading on hundreds of eggshells to highlight the fragility of life under a dictatorship, sculptures of the body that featured just the basic system to emulate the mere 'existence' of life under a dictatorship, Maiolino also focusses on simple shapes and forms to emphasise the universality of art and clay, substituting it for a language that, as an immigrant, never felt was hers. I cannot STRESS how fascinating my chat with the brilliant Iwona Blazwick was. It made me realise so much about what artists do to survive when under political scrutiny, but also how much Mailino's work applies not just to artists, but to the public today. We also discuss Iwona's role as a museum director and what that means in 2019; programming women artists exhibitions now compared to the 80s and 90s; 'exclusion' (such as women and Latin American artists) in the traditional art historical canon; the importance of diversity in institutions; and making shows relevant and accessible for everyone today. Anna Maria Maiolino: Making Love Revolutionary is at the Whitechapel Gallery until 12 January: https://www.whitechapelgallery.org/exhibitions/anna-maria-maiolino/Further reading: https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/ey-exhibition-world-goes-pop/artist-biography/anna-maria-maiolino https://frieze.com/article/i-allowed-myself-be-eaten-anna-maria-maiolino-cultural-cannibalism-brazilThank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 10 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the legendary Director of Whitechapel Gallery IWONA BLAZWICK on the radical Brazilian artist ANNA MARIA MAIOLINO!! And WOW is it incredible to hear one of the most important curators in the WORLD today speaking so passionately about one of the greatest Latin American artists – who also has an unmissable exhibition on right now at Whitechapel Gallery.  With a career spanning five decades and counting, 77 year-old Maiolino works across a multitude of mediums including performance, photography, and sculpture. Born in Italy during WW2, Maiolino emigrated to Venezuela and then Brazil, where she lived in extreme politically unstable times under a dictatorship.  But this fuelled Maiolino to make art that reflected these times: hidden away from the authorities, and challenging what it really meant to be a woman in this environment.  Known for her blindfolded performances where she avoided treading on hundreds of eggshells to highlight the fragility of life under a dictatorship, sculptures of the body that featured just the basic system to emulate the mere 'existence' of life under a dictatorship, Maiolino also focusses on simple shapes and forms to emphasise the universality of art and clay, substituting it for a language that, as an immigrant, never felt was hers.  I cannot STRESS how fascinating my chat with the brilliant Iwona Blazwick was. It made me realise so much about what artists do to survive when under political scrutiny, but also how much Mailino's work applies not just to artists, but to the public today.  We also discuss Iwona's role as a museum director and what that means in 2019; programming women artists exhibitions now compared to the 80s and 90s; 'exclusion' (such as women and Latin American artists) in the traditional art historical canon; the importance of diversity in institutions; and making shows relevant and accessible for everyone today.  Anna Maria Maiolino: Making Love Revolutionary is at the Whitechapel Gallery until 12 January:  <a href="https://www.whitechapelgallery.org/exhibitions/anna-maria-maiolino/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.whitechapelgallery.org/exhibitions/anna-maria-maiolino/</a> Further reading: <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/ey-exhibition-world-goes-pop/artist-biography/anna-maria-maiolino" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/ey-exhibition-world-goes-pop/artist-biography/anna-maria-maiolino</a> <a href="https://frieze.com/article/i-allowed-myself-be-eaten-anna-maria-maiolino-cultural-cannibalism-brazil" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://frieze.com/article/i-allowed-myself-be-eaten-anna-maria-maiolino-cultural-cannibalism-brazil</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Iwona Blazwick on Anna Maria Maiolino

Juno Calypso

In Episode 03 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most exciting and brilliant photographers working today, JUNO CALYPSO!!!Known for her self portraits where she stages herself as a fictional character named ‘Joyce’ in the likes of Honeymoon Hotels in America, 70s style flats in Malta, or more recently in a kitsch underground bunker on the outskirts of Vegas, Juno’s work is always very distinctly pink and elaborate, with a lot of dark undertones.After graduating from London College of Communications in 2012, Juno has since gone on to win multiple awards for her work, including the British Journal of Photography and the Royal Photographic Society, and has had six solo exhibitions across London and Milan.In this episode we discuss Juno's career so far, how she became interested in self portraiture experimenting with digital cameras in the late 90s and early 00s; her experience at university; incredible recent photographic projects, The Honeymoon and What To Do With A Million Years; her constant and refreshing examination of female self-perception; and how she's catapulted into being one of the most recognisable and exciting photographers working today. I couldn't be more delighted to have Juno as my third guest. Not only is she amazing AND hilarious, but her unnerving stories of finding the most kitsch and insanely incredible locations (you won't believe are real) are just fantastic. She has A LOT of good stories. ENJOY!!! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:Early Work – Popcorn Venus, 2012https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/403ytame26ukmyc3nv2iy9oancorhtJoyce – 12 Reasons You're Tired All The Time, 2013https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/8oj5qrr18him0sra6i6ymi8qyxz0bvThe Honeymoon – Eternal Beauty, 2014https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/k4d0u0w5q499ico00rkwiu973r0ee0A Dream in Green, 2015https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/yaorcuo0dsom4rtagq3bo6e3f6lt86The Honeymoon Suite, 2015https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/kd0v7lml0hi6gea393xmahjhcpuy9gSensory Deprivation, 2016https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/sensorydeprivationWhat To Do With A Million Years – Tuesday in Eternity, 2018https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/tuesday-in-eternity-2018Subterrenean Kitchen, 2018https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/2018/11/7/subterranean-kitchen-2018Die Now Pay Later, 2018https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/die-now-pay-later-2018The Entrance, 2018https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/the-entrance-2018Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairukFollow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerSound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabelMusic by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 03 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews one of the most exciting and brilliant photographers working today, JUNO CALYPSO!!! Known for her self portraits where she stages herself as a fictional character named ‘Joyce’ in the likes of Honeymoon Hotels in America, 70s style flats in Malta, or more recently in a kitsch underground bunker on the outskirts of Vegas, Juno’s work is always very distinctly pink and elaborate, with a lot of dark undertones. After graduating from London College of Communications in 2012, Juno has since gone on to win multiple awards for her work, including the British Journal of Photography and the Royal Photographic Society, and has had six solo exhibitions across London and Milan. In this episode we discuss Juno's career so far, how she became interested in self portraiture experimenting with digital cameras in the late 90s and early 00s; her experience at university; incredible recent photographic projects, The Honeymoon and What To Do With A Million Years; her constant and refreshing examination of female self-perception; and how she's catapulted into being one of the most recognisable and exciting photographers working today. I couldn't be more delighted to have Juno as my third guest. Not only is she amazing AND hilarious, but her unnerving stories of finding the most kitsch and insanely incredible locations (you won't believe are real) are just fantastic. She has A LOT of good stories. ENJOY!!! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE: Early Work – Popcorn Venus, 2012 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/403ytame26ukmyc3nv2iy9oancorht" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/403ytame26ukmyc3nv2iy9oancorht</a> Joyce – 12 Reasons You're Tired All The Time, 2013 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/8oj5qrr18him0sra6i6ymi8qyxz0bv" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/joyce-ii/8oj5qrr18him0sra6i6ymi8qyxz0bv</a> The Honeymoon –  Eternal Beauty, 2014 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/k4d0u0w5q499ico00rkwiu973r0ee0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/k4d0u0w5q499ico00rkwiu973r0ee0</a> A Dream in Green, 2015 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/yaorcuo0dsom4rtagq3bo6e3f6lt86" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/yaorcuo0dsom4rtagq3bo6e3f6lt86</a> The Honeymoon Suite, 2015 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/kd0v7lml0hi6gea393xmahjhcpuy9g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/kd0v7lml0hi6gea393xmahjhcpuy9g</a> Sensory Deprivation, 2016 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/sensorydeprivation" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/produce/sensorydeprivation</a> What To Do With A Million Years –  Tuesday in Eternity, 2018 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/tuesday-in-eternity-2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/tuesday-in-eternity-2018</a> Subterrenean Kitchen, 2018 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/2018/11/7/subterranean-kitchen-2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/2018/11/7/subterranean-kitchen-2018</a> Die Now Pay Later, 2018 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/die-now-pay-later-2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/die-now-pay-later-2018</a> The Entrance, 2018 <a href="https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/the-entrance-2018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.junocalypso.com/2018/11/7/the-entrance-2018</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairuk Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Sound editing by @_ellieclifford / @naomiabel Music by Ben Wetherfield

Jessie Burton

In Episode 15 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant best-selling author, Jessie Burton, on the great FRIDA KAHLO !!!!!!!And WOW was it incredible to record at Jessie's beautiful home surrounded by everything Frida: from mugs, cushions, candles, posters, to doorstops, Jessie has even painted her writing out-house 'Frida-blue' (!). What a hero!I first found out about Jessie's fascination with the artist after reading a beautiful essay she wrote in 2017 for Harper's Bazaar after making the pilgrimage to Frida's house, Casa Azul, around the time of the V&amp;A Exhibition. You can read a shorter version here: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/a21341120/frida-kahlo-the-agony-and-the-ecstacy/Frida is known to be one of the most iconic artists from history. Her image has been countlessly reproduced in the world, but how much do we really know about the woman behind the portrait...?Born in 1907 (she always claimed it was 1910 to be a 'child of the revolution'), Frida grew up in Mexico City, but life wasn't always easy. Disabled by polio as a child, Frida was involved in a horrific bus accident aged 18 which shattered her body. After being bed-bound, she began to paint – portraits of those around her, self-portraits of her reality and her constant reminder of death. But despite all the tragedy, she never let herself be the victim. A left-wing activist, Frida married her husband, Diego Rivera – the then superstar artist of his day. The couple travelled around the world and were each other's biggest inspirations, but it wasn't always smooth – something we come to learn the more explore her work. Through her portraiture Frida documented her life: her dual identity, love, death, religion, marriage, fertility, infertility. Portraying truthful scenarios, Jessie and I discuss the constant mask she wears and the constant search for identity in her work, whether that be mixing her European and Mexican heritage, her two selves, and her constant battle with the impending doom of death. I couldn't be MORE excited to release this episode. Jessie tells the story of Frida through a writer's lens, calling her "a writer's dream". We go through her life story, but also her works, and ask ourselves: what is it that makes Frida so iconic, so relatable, so empowering?! Tune in NOW! :)Want to read more. Check out Jessie's brilliant books here: https://www.jessieburton.co.uk/index.html – available from all good bookshops! Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://bit.ly/32HJVDk To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 15 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant best-selling author, Jessie Burton, on the great FRIDA KAHLO !!!!!!! And WOW was it incredible to record at Jessie's beautiful home surrounded by everything Frida: from mugs, cushions, candles, posters, to doorstops, Jessie has even painted her writing out-house 'Frida-blue' (!). What a hero! I first found out about Jessie's fascination with the artist after reading a beautiful essay she wrote in 2017 for Harper's Bazaar after making the pilgrimage to Frida's house, Casa Azul, around the time of the V&amp;A Exhibition. You can read a shorter version here: <a href="https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/a21341120/frida-kahlo-the-agony-and-the-ecstacy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/a21341120/frida-kahlo-the-agony-and-the-ecstacy/</a> Frida is known to be one of the most iconic artists from history. Her image has been countlessly reproduced in the world, but how much do we really know about the woman behind the portrait...? Born in 1907 (she always claimed it was 1910 to be a 'child of the revolution'), Frida grew up in Mexico City, but life wasn't always easy. Disabled by polio as a child, Frida was involved in a horrific bus accident aged 18 which shattered her body. After being bed-bound, she began to paint – portraits of those around her, self-portraits of her reality and her constant reminder of death. But despite all the tragedy, she never let herself be the victim.  A left-wing activist, Frida married her husband, Diego Rivera – the then superstar artist of his day. The couple travelled around the world and were each other's biggest inspirations, but it wasn't always smooth – something we come to learn the more explore her work.  Through her portraiture Frida documented her life: her dual identity, love, death, religion, marriage, fertility, infertility. Portraying truthful scenarios, Jessie and I discuss the constant mask she wears and the constant search for identity in her work, whether that be mixing her European and Mexican heritage, her two selves, and her constant battle with the impending doom of death.  I couldn't be MORE excited to release this episode. Jessie tells the story of Frida through a writer's lens, calling her "a writer's dream". We go through her life story, but also her works, and ask ourselves: what is it that makes Frida so iconic, so relatable, so empowering?! Tune in NOW! :) Want to read more. Check out Jessie's brilliant books here: <a href="https://www.jessieburton.co.uk/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.jessieburton.co.uk/index.html</a> – available from all good bookshops!  Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://bit.ly/32HJVDk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/32HJVDk</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Jessie Burton on Frida Kahlo

Hans Ulrich Obrist

In Episode 16 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant super curator and Artistic Director of Serpentine Galleries, HANS ULRICH OBRIST on the legendary artists, Faith Ringgold AND Luchita Hurtado!!!And WOW was it amazing to record at Serpentine, where last summer Hans Ulrich curated monumental shows of their work. But despite both artists approaching their ninth and tenth decades, it was Luchita's first solo exhibition EVER, and for Faith it was also her first ever in-depth European institutional show ever!!https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/faith-ringgold https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/luchita-hurtado-i-live-i-die-i-will-be-rebornIn this episode Hans Ulrich takes us through what he calls the "Rosemarie Trockel methodology" – his urgent interest to find out about and platform the older women artists who are yet to receive major recognition during their lifetime. And it was this that he applied to both Faith and Luchita. In this episode we discuss Faith Ringgold, the artist and activist, who was born in Harlem in 1930 and who continues to tirelessly challenge perceptions of African American identity and gender inequality in her extensive five-decade-and-counting career. Known for her painted story quilts that combine personal narratives, history and politics, Ringgold grew up in the creative and intellectual context of the Harlem Renaissance, and was inspired by her surrounded contemporaries including writers James Baldwin and Amari Baraka. Exhibiting widely, it is only recently that Faith's career has been put into the spotlight, with one of her most famous paintings, American People #20 situated in the most prominent position of the new MoMA! https://www.moma.org/collection/works/199915However unlike Faith, Luchita, who we also discuss (who is 99 and based in Santa Monica in California) had never had any recognition up until Hans Ulrich visited her at her studio just a few years ago! Known for her incredibly surreal paintings that play with light and perspectives, Luchita's work very much concerns itself with the environment – not only does she still continue to attend protests, but making ecologically activistic posters is an inherent part of her practice. What is so interesting about both artists is how contemporary their ideas and approaches to art are, in addition to how timely their work feels – despite some of it made over fifty years ago! I absolutely LOVED recording this episode with Hans Ulrich. His infectious energy and enthusiasm for these artists, and in particular platforming older women artists, was so admirable. I hope you enjoy the conversation! Thank you for listening!!This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair!@artfund: https://www.artfund.org/katy-hesselTo receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout! @affordableartfairuk: https://affordableartfair.com/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In Episode 16 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the brilliant super curator and Artistic Director of Serpentine Galleries, HANS ULRICH OBRIST on the legendary artists, Faith Ringgold AND Luchita Hurtado!!! And WOW was it amazing to record at Serpentine, where last summer Hans Ulrich curated monumental shows of their work. But despite both artists approaching their ninth and tenth decades, it was Luchita's first solo exhibition EVER, and for Faith it was also her first ever in-depth European institutional show ever!! <a href="https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/faith-ringgold" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/faith-ringgold</a> <a href="https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/luchita-hurtado-i-live-i-die-i-will-be-reborn" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/luchita-hurtado-i-live-i-die-i-will-be-reborn</a> In this episode Hans Ulrich takes us through what he calls the "Rosemarie Trockel methodology" – his urgent interest to find out about and platform the older women artists who are yet to receive major recognition during their lifetime. And it was this that he applied to both Faith and Luchita.  In this episode we discuss Faith Ringgold, the artist and activist, who was born in Harlem in 1930 and who continues to tirelessly challenge perceptions of African American identity and gender inequality in her extensive five-decade-and-counting career. Known for her painted story quilts that combine personal narratives, history and politics, Ringgold grew up in the creative and intellectual context of the Harlem Renaissance, and was inspired by her surrounded contemporaries including writers James Baldwin and Amari Baraka. Exhibiting widely, it is only recently that Faith's career has been put into the spotlight, with one of her most famous paintings, American People #20 situated in the most prominent position of the new MoMA! <a href="https://www.moma.org/collection/works/199915" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.moma.org/collection/works/199915</a> However unlike Faith, Luchita, who we also discuss (who is 99 and based in Santa Monica in California) had never had any recognition up until Hans Ulrich visited her at her studio just a few years ago! Known for her incredibly surreal paintings that play with light and perspectives, Luchita's work very much concerns itself with the environment – not only does she still continue to attend protests, but making ecologically activistic posters is an inherent part of her practice.  What is so interesting about both artists is how contemporary their ideas and approaches to art are, in addition to how timely their work feels – despite some of it made over fifty years ago!  I absolutely LOVED recording this episode with Hans Ulrich. His infectious energy and enthusiasm for these artists, and in particular platforming older women artists, was so admirable. I hope you enjoy the conversation!  Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass and the Affordable Art Fair! @artfund: <a href="https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artfund.org/katy-hessel</a> To receive a free tote bag with your National Art Pass, enter the code GREAT at checkout!  @affordableartfairuk: <a href="https://affordableartfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://affordableartfair.com/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Hans Ulrich Obrist on Faith Ringgold and Luchita Hurtado

Lisa Brice

Aïcha Mehrez

In Episode 07 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the amazing Tate Britain curator, Aïcha Mehrez, on one of the GREATEST painters working today, LISA BRICE!!!!And WOW. You think you know Lisa's phenomenally stunning work filled with women in moments of down-time in their private world? Think again. There are layers upon LAYERS of art historical references that she cannily interweaves that completely DISRUPTS every painting ever seen through the lens of the male gaze. Lisa is a genius and THE painter of our time. Re-appropriating the likes of Millais' Ophelia, or Vallotton's unnamed woman, Lisa immortalises these dismissed women from art history by giving them life, their own personality, feet to stand on, and often half nude with a cigarette in hand. We discuss the exhibition Aïcha curated at Tate Britain last year, plus Lisa's South African heritage and ties to Trinidad through the colour blue and its many different meanings. We also fan girl her ability to lure viewers into these private worlds disguised under a thin sheet or curtain, to gaze on these incredibly seductive and surreal women in their private and domestic spaces. DO NOT MISS the last week of Lisa's phenomenal exhibition at Stephen Friedman Gallery which ends THIS SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER! WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODENo Bare Back, after Embah, 2017 – https://bit.ly/2PM4KLiBetween This And That, 2017 – https://bit.ly/36z4d5dMidday Drinking Den, after Embah I, 2017 – https://bit.ly/2NItSzFAfter Ophelia, 2018 – https://bit.ly/2PIaSURScreen in SFG showhttps://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/1569672547_brice_at_sfg_2019_1-jpgStephen Friedman Gallery show (until 9 November)https://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/Lisa Brice curated by Aïcha Mehrez at Tate Britainhttps://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-britain/exhibition/lisa-briceFurther readingAïcha Mehrez in conversation with Lisa Bricehttps://www.tate.org.uk/tate-etc/issue-43-summer-2018/lisa-brice-art-now-interview-aicha-mehrezThank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfundhttps://www.artfund.org/national-art-passFollow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by @_elliecliffordArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 07 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the amazing Tate Britain curator, Aïcha Mehrez, on one of the GREATEST painters working today, LISA BRICE!!!! And WOW. You think you know Lisa's phenomenally stunning work filled with women in moments of down-time in their private world? Think again. There are layers upon LAYERS of art historical references that she cannily interweaves that completely DISRUPTS every painting ever seen through the lens of the male gaze. Lisa is a genius and THE painter of our time.  Re-appropriating the likes of Millais' Ophelia, or Vallotton's unnamed woman, Lisa immortalises these dismissed women from art history by giving them life, their own personality, feet to stand on, and often half nude with a cigarette in hand.  We discuss the exhibition Aïcha curated at Tate Britain last year, plus Lisa's South African heritage and ties to Trinidad through the colour blue and its many different meanings. We also fan girl her ability to lure viewers into these private worlds disguised under a thin sheet or curtain, to gaze on these incredibly seductive and surreal women in their private and domestic spaces.  DO NOT MISS the last week of Lisa's phenomenal exhibition at Stephen Friedman Gallery which ends THIS SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER!  WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE No Bare Back, after Embah, 2017 – <a href="https://bit.ly/2PM4KLiBetween" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2PM4KLiBetween</a> This And That, 2017 – <a href="https://bit.ly/36z4d5d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/36z4d5d</a> Midday Drinking Den, after Embah I, 2017 – <a href="https://bit.ly/2NItSzFAfter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2NItSzFAfter</a> Ophelia, 2018 – <a href="https://bit.ly/2PIaSUR" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2PIaSUR</a> Screen in SFG show <a href="https://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/1569672547_brice_at_sfg_2019_1-jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/1569672547_brice_at_sfg_2019_1-jpg</a> Stephen Friedman Gallery show (until 9 November) <a href="https://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.stephenfriedman.com/exhibitions/current/lisa-brice/</a> Lisa Brice curated by Aïcha Mehrez at Tate Britain <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-britain/exhibition/lisa-brice" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-britain/exhibition/lisa-brice</a> Further reading Aïcha Mehrez in conversation with Lisa Brice <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/tate-etc/issue-43-summer-2018/lisa-brice-art-now-interview-aicha-mehrez" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/tate-etc/issue-43-summer-2018/lisa-brice-art-now-interview-aicha-mehrez</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the National Art Pass/ @artfund <a href="https://www.artfund.org/national-art-pass" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.artfund.org/national-art-pass</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield

Aïcha Mehrez on Lisa Brice

Joanna Moorhead

In Episode 06 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews journalist Joanna Moorhead, the long lost cousin, biographer and world expert of one of the greatest surrealist painters ever to exist, LEONORA CARRINGTON!!!And WOW, will it shock you to find out that Joanna only found out about her long lost cousin a mere THIRTEEN years ago, by which point the great artist was 89. Determined to track her down, Joanna flew straight to Mexico to find her cousin – who was never allowed to be spoken about in her family since her dramatic exit in 1937...Born in 1917 in a large gothic mansion – that inspired many of her later paintings – Carrington had an isolated childhood. The only girl of three brothers, age 15 Carrington was sent to London be a debutant, but she resisted, only to head straight to art school where she ended up falling in love with Max Ernst, the married Surrealist painter 26 years her senior...After a huge row with her family – she never saw her father again – she headed straight for Paris. But this was 1936 and war was imminent. And it wasn't going to be easy for the young Leonora to venture out on her own. Listen now to discover how the young Leonora escaped Europe for Mexico, the country where Carrington resided until her death in 2011... I couldn't be more delighted to interview Joanna about Leonora and her fantastically surreal paintings – many of which echo her childhood – and to find out first hand about the artist's life and take on her work, and of course, their meeting in 2006. WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE: Self Portrait (In of the Dawn Horse), 1937–38https://www.metmuseum.org/en/art/collection/search/492697Portrait of Max Ernst, 1939https://www.nationalgalleries.org/art-and-artists/164061/portrait-max-ernstDo You Know My Aunt Eliza?, 1941https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/carrington-do-you-know-my-aunt-eliza-t11911Green Tea, 1942https://bit.ly/31N9PoYCrookhey Hall, 1947https://bit.ly/2BNPhC8Grandma Moorhead's Aromatic Kitchen, 1975https://bit.ly/2PnZGMVFurther reading – Joanna's book: https://www.virago.co.uk/titles/joanna-moorhead/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington/9780349008776/Article on the book: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/apr/05/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington-joanna-moorhead-reviewBBC documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxEF1bjgt5Q&amp;t=1121sThank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairukFollow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselArtwork by @thisisaliceskinnerSound editing by @_ellieclifford Music by Ben Wetherfield

In Episode 06 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews journalist Joanna Moorhead, the long lost cousin, biographer and world expert of one of the greatest surrealist painters ever to exist, LEONORA CARRINGTON!!! And WOW, will it shock you to find out that Joanna only found out about her long lost cousin a mere THIRTEEN years ago, by which point the great artist was 89. Determined to track her down, Joanna flew straight to Mexico to find her cousin – who was never allowed to be spoken about in her family since her dramatic exit in 1937... Born in 1917 in a large gothic mansion – that inspired many of her later paintings – Carrington had an isolated childhood. The only girl of three brothers, age 15 Carrington was sent to London be a debutant, but she resisted, only to head straight to art school where she ended up falling in love with Max Ernst, the married Surrealist painter 26 years her senior... After a huge row with her family – she never saw her father again – she headed straight for Paris. But this was 1936 and war was imminent. And it wasn't going to be easy for the young Leonora to venture out on her own. Listen now to discover how the young Leonora escaped Europe for Mexico, the country where Carrington resided until her death in 2011... I couldn't be more delighted to interview Joanna about Leonora and her fantastically surreal paintings – many of which echo her childhood – and to find out first hand about the artist's life and take on her work, and of course, their meeting in 2006. WORKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:  Self Portrait (In of the Dawn Horse), 1937–38https://<a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/en/art/collection/search/492697" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.metmuseum.org/en/art/collection/search/492697</a> Portrait of Max Ernst, 1939https://<a href="http://www.nationalgalleries.org/art-and-artists/164061/portrait-max-ernst" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nationalgalleries.org/art-and-artists/164061/portrait-max-ernst</a> Do You Know My Aunt Eliza?, 1941https://<a href="http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/carrington-do-you-know-my-aunt-eliza-t11911" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/carrington-do-you-know-my-aunt-eliza-t11911</a> Green Tea, 1942https://<a href="http://bit.ly/31N9PoY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bit.ly/31N9PoY</a> Crookhey Hall, 1947https://<a href="http://bit.ly/2BNPhC8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bit.ly/2BNPhC8</a> Grandma Moorhead's Aromatic Kitchen, 1975https://<a href="http://bit.ly/2PnZGMV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bit.ly/2PnZGMV</a> Further reading –  Joanna's book: <a href="https://www.virago.co.uk/titles/joanna-moorhead/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington/9780349008776/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.virago.co.uk/titles/joanna-moorhead/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington/9780349008776/</a> Article on the book: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/apr/05/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington-joanna-moorhead-review" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/apr/05/the-surreal-life-of-leonora-carrington-joanna-moorhead-review</a> BBC documentary: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxEF1bjgt5Q&amp;t=1121s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxEF1bjgt5Q&amp;t=1121s</a> Thank you for listening!! This episode is sponsored by the Affordable Art Fair: @affordableartfairuk Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Sound editing by @_ellieclifford Music by Ben Wetherfield

Joanna Moorhead on Leonora Carrington

Helen Frankenthaler

Elizabeth Smith

WELCOME BACK TO SEASON 5 of the GWA PODCAST!In episode 53 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the renowned curator and executive director of the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, Elizabeth Smith, on the trailblazing and legendary HELEN FRANKENTHALER (1928–2011) !!!![This episode is brought to you by Alighieri jewellery: www.alighieri.co.uk | use the code TGWA at checkout for 10% off!]With a career spanning six decades, Helen Frankenthaler has long been recognized as one of the great American artists of the twentieth century. A member of the second generation of postwar American abstract painters, she is widely credited with playing a pivotal role in the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Color Field painting. Through her invention of the soak-stain technique, she expanded the possibilities of abstraction, while at times referencing figuration and landscape in highly personal ways. She produced a body of work whose impact on contemporary art has been profound and continues to grow.Born on December 12, 1928, and raised in New York. She attended the Dalton School, where she received her earliest art instruction from Rufino Tamayo. In 1949 she graduated from Bennington College, and by the early 1950s had entered into the Downtown New York Art Scene.Exhibiting at the infamous Ninth Street Show in 1951 (alongside Krasner, Mitchell, and others), Frankenthaler's breakthrough came in 1952 when she created Mountains and Sea, her first soak-stain painting. She poured thinned paint directly onto raw, unprimed canvas laid on the studio floor, working from all sides to create floating fields of translucent colour. The work catalysed the Colour Field School and was particularly influential for artists of her generation. In 1959, Frankenthaler had won first  prize at the Premiere Biennale de Paris, by 1960 had her first major solo exhibition at the Jewish Museum in New York, and by 1969 was one of four artists to represent America at the Venice Biennale. Oh! AND she had a Whitney Museum solo exhibition of the same year. She was invisible.I LOVED recording this episode with Elizabeth Smith about the fascinating life and work of Frankenthaler. ENJOY!!!Works discussed:Nature Abhors a Vacuum, 1973Cloud Burst, 2002Pink Lady, 1963Mountains and Sea, 1952Jacob's Ladder, 1957Flood, 1967FURTHER LINKS!https://www.frankenthalerfoundation.org/artworks/paintings https://www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/2021/may/helen-frankenthaler-radical-beauty/ https://www.guggenheim.org/artwork/artist/Helen-Frankenthaler https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/display/studio/helen-frankenthaler https://gagosian.com/news/museum-exhibitions/pittura-panorama-paintings-by-helen-frankenthaler-museo-di-palazzo-grimani-venice/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Laura Hendry Artwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

WELCOME BACK TO SEASON 5 of the GWA PODCAST! In episode 53 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the renowned curator and executive director of the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, Elizabeth Smith, on the trailblazing and legendary HELEN FRANKENTHALER (1928–2011) !!!! [This episode is brought to you by Alighieri jewellery: <a href="http://www.alighieri.co.uk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.alighieri.co.uk</a> | use the code TGWA at checkout for 10% off!] With a career spanning six decades, Helen Frankenthaler has long been recognized as one of the great American artists of the twentieth century. A member of the second generation of postwar American abstract painters, she is widely credited with playing a pivotal role in the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Color Field painting. Through her invention of the soak-stain technique, she expanded the possibilities of abstraction, while at times referencing figuration and landscape in highly personal ways. She produced a body of work whose impact on contemporary art has been profound and continues to grow. Born on December 12, 1928, and raised in New York. She attended the Dalton School, where she received her earliest art instruction from Rufino Tamayo. In 1949 she graduated from Bennington College, and by the early 1950s had entered into the Downtown New York Art Scene. Exhibiting at the infamous Ninth Street Show in 1951 (alongside Krasner, Mitchell, and others), Frankenthaler's breakthrough came in 1952 when she created Mountains and Sea, her first soak-stain painting. She poured thinned paint directly onto raw, unprimed canvas laid on the studio floor, working from all sides to create floating fields of translucent colour. The work catalysed the Colour Field School and was particularly influential for artists of her generation. In 1959, Frankenthaler had won first prize at the Premiere Biennale de Paris, by 1960 had her first major solo exhibition at the Jewish Museum in New York, and by 1969 was one of four artists to represent America at the Venice Biennale. Oh! AND she had a Whitney Museum solo exhibition of the same year. She was invisible. I LOVED recording this episode with Elizabeth Smith about the fascinating life and work of Frankenthaler. ENJOY!!! Works discussed: Nature Abhors a Vacuum, 1973 Cloud Burst, 2002 Pink Lady, 1963 Mountains and Sea, 1952 Jacob's Ladder, 1957 Flood, 1967 FURTHER LINKS! <a href="https://www.frankenthalerfoundation.org/artworks/paintings" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.frankenthalerfoundation.org/artworks/paintings</a> <a href="https://www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/2021/may/helen-frankenthaler-radical-beauty/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/2021/may/helen-frankenthaler-radical-beauty/</a> <a href="https://www.guggenheim.org/artwork/artist/Helen-Frankenthaler" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.guggenheim.org/artwork/artist/Helen-Frankenthaler</a> <a href="https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/display/studio/helen-frankenthaler" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/display/studio/helen-frankenthaler</a> <a href="https://gagosian.com/news/museum-exhibitions/pittura-panorama-paintings-by-helen-frankenthaler-museo-di-palazzo-grimani-venice/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://gagosian.com/news/museum-exhibitions/pittura-panorama-paintings-by-helen-frankenthaler-museo-di-palazzo-grimani-venice/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Laura Hendry Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Elizabeth Smith on Helen Frankenthaler

Lois Mailou Jones

Rebecca VanDiver

In episode 52 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the renowned art historian Rebecca K. VanDiver on the trailblazing and legendary LOIS MAILOU JONES (1905–1998) !!!![This episode is brought to you by Alighieri jewellery: www.alighieri.co.uk | use the code TGWA at checkout for 10% off!]Born in Boston, had her first exhibition aged 17, and found herself in the midst of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, Lois Mailou Jones had an EXTENSIVE artistic career that spanned almost an entire century, and an oeuvre that ranged from traditional portraits, Haitian landscapes, to African-themed abstraction. Born to accomplished, upper-middle-class, professional parents in Boston, Jones spent her early years surrounded by the cultural elite on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, including sculptor Meta Warwick Fuller, a mentor to the young Jones and encouraging her to study in Paris.Continuously awarded scholarships to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts associated with the Boston Museum, the always highly determined Jones originally pursued textiles (however soon retracted after finding out that designers’ names weren’t recognised in the same as painters). An educator for nearly 50 years, she first got a job at PalmerMemorial School (which she would drive down to in her sports car, as well as coach basketball!), and in 1930 was personally recruited to teach at Howard University, the epicentre of Black intellectualism (her students included Elizabeth Catlett, and painter Alma Thomas was her neighbour in DC!).Spending many summers of the 1920s immersed in the Harlem Renaissance, between 1937–8 Jones ventured to Paris on sabbatical, where she adopted an impressionist-like style, painting ‘en plein air’. Like so many of her contemporaries of the Harlem Renaissance, Jones felt welcome as an artist in Paris. Developing her negotiations with African themes in her work, such as Les Fetiches, 1937, a small painting of African masks, it was on her return to America that she was encouraged by Harlem Renaissance gatekeeper, Alain Locke, to further embrace the everyday life of African American people.Honoured by numerous presidents, granted a Lois Mailou Jones Day AND Avenue in America, it wasn't until her elderly age that she took America by storm. And WOW. Has she had an impact on American art. ENJOY!!!!Rebecca K Vandiver is a RENOWNED scholar, and has just written a book on LMJ! See here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/designing-a-new-tradition/rebecca-vandiver//9780271086040FURTHER LINKS!https://www.rebeccavandiver.com/ https://americanart.si.edu/artist/lo%C3%AFs-mailou-jones-5658 https://nmwa.org/art/artists/lois-mailou-jones/ https://hyperallergic.com/600201/lois-mailou-jones-an-artist-and-educator-who-made-history/Follow us:Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hesselSound editing by Laura Hendry Artwork by @thisisaliceskinnerMusic by Ben Wetherfieldhttps://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/

In episode 52 of The Great Women Artists Podcast, Katy Hessel interviews the renowned art historian Rebecca K. VanDiver on the trailblazing and legendary LOIS MAILOU JONES (1905–1998) !!!! [This episode is brought to you by Alighieri jewellery: <a href="http://www.alighieri.co.uk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.alighieri.co.uk</a> | use the code TGWA at checkout for 10% off!] Born in Boston, had her first exhibition aged 17, and found herself in the midst of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, Lois Mailou Jones had an EXTENSIVE artistic career that spanned almost an entire century, and an oeuvre that ranged from traditional portraits, Haitian landscapes, to African-themed abstraction. Born to accomplished, upper-middle-class, professional parents in Boston, Jones spent her early years surrounded by the cultural elite on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, including sculptor Meta Warwick Fuller, a mentor to the young Jones and encouraging her to study in Paris. Continuously awarded scholarships to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts associated with the Boston Museum, the always highly determined Jones originally pursued textiles (however soon retracted after finding out that designers’ names weren’t recognised in the same as painters). An educator for nearly 50 years, she first got a job at PalmerMemorial School (which she would drive down to in her sports car, as well as coach basketball!), and in 1930 was personally recruited to teach at Howard University, the epicentre of Black intellectualism (her students included Elizabeth Catlett, and painter Alma Thomas was her neighbour in DC!). Spending many summers of the 1920s immersed in the Harlem Renaissance, between 1937–8 Jones ventured to Paris on sabbatical, where she adopted an impressionist-like style, painting ‘en plein air’. Like so many of her contemporaries of the Harlem Renaissance, Jones felt welcome as an artist in Paris. Developing her negotiations with African themes in her work, such as Les Fetiches, 1937, a small painting of African masks, it was on her return to America that she was encouraged by Harlem Renaissance gatekeeper, Alain Locke, to further embrace the everyday life of African American people. Honoured by numerous presidents, granted a Lois Mailou Jones Day AND Avenue in America, it wasn't until her elderly age that she took America by storm. And WOW. Has she had an impact on American art. ENJOY!!!! Rebecca K Vandiver is a RENOWNED scholar, and has just written a book on LMJ! See here: <a href="https://www.waterstones.com/book/designing-a-new-tradition/rebecca-vandiver//9780271086040" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.waterstones.com/book/designing-a-new-tradition/rebecca-vandiver//9780271086040</a> FURTHER LINKS! <a href="https://www.rebeccavandiver.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.rebeccavandiver.com/</a> <a href="https://americanart.si.edu/artist/lo%C3%AFs-mailou-jones-5658" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://americanart.si.edu/artist/lo%C3%AFs-mailou-jones-5658</a> <a href="https://nmwa.org/art/artists/lois-mailou-jones/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://nmwa.org/art/artists/lois-mailou-jones/</a> <a href="https://hyperallergic.com/600201/lois-mailou-jones-an-artist-and-educator-who-made-history/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://hyperallergic.com/600201/lois-mailou-jones-an-artist-and-educator-who-made-history/</a> Follow us: Katy Hessel: @thegreatwomenartists / @katy.hessel Sound editing by Laura Hendry  Artwork by @thisisaliceskinner Music by Ben Wetherfield <a href="https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thegreatwomenartists.com/</a>

Rebecca VanDiver on Lois Mailou Jones

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