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In this pre-Christmas episode of Sculpture Vulture, host Lucy Branch reflects on a fruitful year while sharing insightful clips from past episodes. Lucy features pearls of wisdom from renowned sculptors such as Kenny Hunter, Steven C. Barber, Nigel Hall, Kerry Thomas, Neil Andrews, Tom Murphy, Aiden, Tim Shaw, and Rebecca Hawkins. Each sculptor offers a unique perspective on the art of sculpture, its challenges, and its rewards. Lucy introduces the featured guest, sculptor Laura Ford, who discusses her journey in the sculpture world, insights into her creative process, and her educational initiative at the Matt Black Barn. 00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture00:29 Reflecting on a Busy Year01:17 Gems from Past Episodes01:49 Kenny Hunter's Insight on Art02:24 Steven C. Barber on Monumental Thinking03:03 Nigel Hall's Sculptural Perspective04:22 Kerry Thomas on Artistic Philosophy04:57 Neil Andrews on Dynamic Form07:13 Tom Murphy on the Spirit of Art08:00 Aiden on the Essence of Great Sculpture09:10 Tim Shaw on the Pursuit of Perfection09:47 Rebecca Hawkins on Taking Time Off11:40 Interview with Laura Ford25:39 The Creative Process and Self-Consciousness26:04 The Cats and the Banking Crisis28:42 Exhibitions and Visibility28:57 The Matt Black Barn: A Dream Studio31:26 The Importance of Education in Sculpture33:04 Balancing Art and Practicality36:30 Working with a Partner39:57 Conclusion and Upcoming ExhibitionsPlease support the show by buying Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture Or Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation Contact Lucy: [email protected] This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze

Today on the show, Lucy Branch talks to contemporary sculptor Rebecca Hawkins who discusses her journey from early influences in sculpture through to creating some of the world's most significant humanitarian memorials particularly addressing sexual violence in conflict and the determination to grow and survive despite hardship. Sculpture News: Rebel Bear's guerrilla art: Duke of Wellington statue with pigeon reading "The Daily Dropping"Pavarotti statue standing knee-deep in ice rink, Pesaro, Italy Topics discussed: Early sculpture education and the challenges of art school Transformative experience in Nepal and working with the Esther Benjamins TrustThe development of the tree-women sculpturesCreating witness-style memorials for silenced voicesThe "Mother and Child" memorial (2018) for Vietnamese survivors of sexual violence during the Vietnam War (Lai Đại Hàn memorial)The Yazidi genocide memorial for Nadia's InitiativeThe first global memorial for sexual violence in conflict (unveiled The Hague, July 2025; installed Berlin, September 2025)The emotional weight of representing trauma in bronzeThe role of beauty in memorial sculptureBalancing humanitarian work with artistic practice Connect with Rebecca Hawkins: Instagram: @rebeccahawkinssculpture LinkedIn: Rebecca Hawkins Support the Show: We're a Spotify 2025 Most Shared Show with more shares than 91% of other podcasts! Please help us continue growing by sharing this episode with someone in your sculpture community. There are lots of ways to Support The Show, please check them out. Contact Lucy: [email protected] Find out more about Lucy's work with Antique Bronze

On the show today, Lucy Branch speaks to Sarah Monk of The Materially Speaking Podcast about Pietrasanta's International Sculpture Community Key Discussion Points: Pietrasanta's Unique Ecosystem and its History International hub near Carrara marble fields with specialized artisans: mold makers, foundry workers, patina specialistsThree types of artists: major names using established studios, regular visitors, and permanent residents"You can't do sculpture on your own, you need a body of people"1963 Vatican Crisis, the Vatican ruling on religious artifacts nearly destroyed Pietrasanta overnightStudios pivoted by approaching artists like Henry Moore to scale up maquettesCreated today's model where artists work in both bronze and marbleSculptural Tourism The Giro: three-hour self-guided studio tour making access special rather than constantHistorical maquette museum includes original David castReligious public sculpture - Timothy Paul Schmalz Works Monument Viewing and Scale: how scale makes viewers feel small in an "empowering" wayFind Materially Speaking here Contact Lucy and tell her if you've been inspired by sculpture... or the show - [email protected] Please Support the Show: If you're enjoying the podcast, there are several ways you can support the work: Buy a book: Fiction and non-fiction titles available, Wax On Wax Off: How to Care for Bronze Sculpture and Bronze Behaving Badly: The Principles of Bronze Conservation Leave a review: Reviews help other sculpture enthusiasts discover the podcast Spread the word: Tell others in your network about your favourite episodes and enable others to find the Sculpture Vulture Tribe Visit the website: Find the "Support the Show" button at sculpture-vulture.co.uk Every download, review, and book purchase helps keep these conversations about public sculpture and monuments going. Thank you for being part of the Sculpture Vultures community! This podcast is brought to you by Antique Bronze (bronze sculptural and architectural conservation)

In this episode, Lucy Branch speaks with sculptor Tim Shaw about his journey from troublesome teenager to one of Britain's most compelling contemporary sculptors working in bronze and public art. Tim shares the pivotal moment that enabled him to pursue sculpture full-time, and how he's built an autonomous creative life, working primarily on bodies of work he wants to make rather than chasing commissions. We discuss his award-winning sculpture "Man on Fire" at the Imperial War Museum North, why he finds it easier to express emotion through bronze than words, and why he's never quite satisfied with his work - even when it wins major awards. Topics covered: How a book on Rodin changed everything at age 14The difference between conservation and restorationWorking with difficult subjects like war and traumaThe challenge of creating public sculpture that makes people uncomfortableBuilding a career on your own terms Find Tim Shaw: Website: timshawsculptor.comInstagram: @timshawsculptorRecent work: "Man on Fire" at Imperial War Museum North, Salford (Winner of the PSSA Marsh Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture) This podcast is created by ⁠Antique Bronze⁠ Please support the show by rating and reviewing the podcastor with buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch

In today's episode, host Lucy Branch, introduces Carly Wurzel Backer PhD and, Chief Curator of the Heckscher Museum of Art, who shares insights on Emma Stebbins, a pioneering 19th-century sculptor known for her Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. The discussion covers Stebbins' life, her groundbreaking works, and the process of organising an exhibition of her sculptures. 00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture00:35 Personal Update by Lucy Branch and Michael Faraday Monument03:05 Reflections and Future Goals07:45 Introducing Carly Wezel Backer and Emma Stebbins08:54 Emma Stebbins' Journey and Achievements14:45 Challenges and Triumphs in Emma Stebbins' Career24:22 Exhibition Preparation and Discoveries28:12 Emma Stebbins' Artistic Process and Legacy36:22 Conclusion and Exhibition DetailsExhibition Details : Emma Stebbins - Carving Out History Where: The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Avenue, Huntington, New YorkWhen: September 28, 2025 - March 15, 2026Website: heckscher.org Features 14 sculptures plus archival materials, including works not publicly displayed in over a century. A 256-page e The exhibition travels to Chicago, Cincinnati, Charlottesville, and possibly other venues. Guest: Karli Wurzelbacher, PhD Chief Curator at the Heckscher Museum of Art in Huntington, New York. After five years of research, she's curated "Emma Stebbins: Carving Out History" - the first museum exhibition dedicated to this pioneering 19th century American sculptor. Host: Lucy Branch MA ACR - conservator and art historian specialising in bronze post-19th sculpture and architectural features. Contact: [email protected] This podcast is brought to you by Antique Bronze Please support the show

In this episode, sculptor and writer, Aidan Harte joins Lucy Branch to discuss his journey from animation to classical sculpture training in Florence, and the extraordinary controversy surrounding his first public sculpture - a horse-headed figure from Irish folklore called a Púca. What We Discuss: How animation training shaped Aiden's approach to sculptural composition and silhouetteThe value of classical training at Florence's ateliers versus contemporary art educationThe púca commission and the year-long battle that followed when a parish priest condemned it as "pagan"Why the sculpture eventually found its home 10 miles from its original locationThe challenge of creating fantasy and folklore in public sculpturePolitical dimensions of public art in IrelandThe absence of visual art addressing Northern Ireland's troubles, despite rich literary responsesParallels between writing and sculpture - the importance of editing and "killing your darlings" Find Aiden Harte: Website: aidanharte.comInstagram: @aidanhartesculptorWriting: The Spectator, Quillette, The Critic Key Takeaway:Public art requires courage - both from artists willing to create bold work and from commissioners brave enough to defend their initial vision when controversy strikes. If you're enjoying Sculpture Vulture, please share it with fellow sculpture enthusiasts and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze

Today on the show, Lucy Branch, speaks to Juliet Rix an award-winning writer, editor, and broadcaster about the female figures commemorated in London's public sculpture. Key Discussion Points: The timing of the book: Why statues of women have only really proliferated in the 21st centuryStatistics: Fewer than 1 in 6 of London's commemorative statues were for women as of 2021, but more women than men were commemorated in 2022-23Fascinating women featured:Allegorical figures: Britannia, Justice, and their historical significanceHidden stories: The National Gallery's facade statues (castoffs from Marble Arch), the female Ariel atop the Bank of EnglandControversial works: Discussion of Alison Lapper Pregnant and the Mary Wollstonecraft statueThe nude in public sculpture: From the erotic Atalanta to the natural "Deliverance"Funding challenges: Why public sculpture remains difficult to fund despite public interestJuliette's Upcoming Events: Talk at the National Gallery: 21st OctoberMore events listed at www.julietterix.comConnect with Juliette: Website: www.julietterix.comInstagram: @julietterixLinkedIn Also in this episode: Martin Jennings interview (Season 1)⁠ - Martin has recently won the major commission for the Queen Elizabeth II sculpture in St. James's ParkHost's Details : Lucy Branch MA ACR Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠Instagram/Threads: @lucybranchsculpturevulture

Today on the show, Lucy Branch speaks to sculptor Tom Murphy whose public sculptures celebrate the rich and wonderful history of Liverpool's people. We discuss his artistic journey and service to those who commission his works. Join us and Be Inspired By Sculpture You can see photos of Tom's work and read the transcript at www.sculpturesulture.co.uk Contact Lucy Branch - [email protected] This podcast is created by ⁠AntiqueBronze⁠

In this end of season episode, host Lucy Branch, interviews British artist Neale Andrew. Neale shares his journey into sculpture, his epiphany moment and his approach to defining himself as a sculptor. Lucy also discusses current conservation projects and the recent news in the sculpture world, including the repatriation of the largest ever collection of Benin bronzes. Renowned sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro, is remembered. 00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture 00:35 Challenges in Conservation Work 01:37 Upcoming Projects and Public Interactions 02:45 Significant Sculpture News 04:19 Tribute to Arnaldo Pomodoro 06:52 Interview with British Artist Neale Andrews 25:45 The Compromised Sculpture Idea 26:38 First Public Piece and Artistic Integrity 28:22 Sculpture of Richard Hadley and Jeff Boycott 30:16 DH Lawrence Relief Sculpture 31:57 Abstract Elements in Figurative Sculpture 35:11 Influences and Inspirations 38:43 Public vs. Private Sculpture Work 44:13 Wrapping Up the Season Please support the show by buying either: ⁠Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles ofBronze Conservation⁠ or ⁠Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For BronzeSculpture⁠ or by buying me a coffee - Buy Me A Coffee.Com buymeacoffee.com/lucybranchLucy Branch is also a fiction author, her fiction always features sculpture.   This podcast is created by ⁠Antique Bronze⁠

Ceri Thomas—artist, curator, and son of renowned Welsh sculptor Robert Thomas—joins Lucy Branch to reflect on growing up in a house full of creativity, clay, and community spirit. We talk about his father’s mission to celebrate Welsh life through public sculpture, plans for a centenary retrospective, and the importance of representing working-class figures and women in bronze. Ceri also shares insights from his own creative path and his work on his interest in projects like Monumental Welsh Women and the upcoming Rhodri Morgan statue. 🎨 See Ceri’s paintings: www.cerithomasart.com See the blogpost with images: www.sculpturevulture.co.uk Other episodes on Sculpture Vulture about Robert Thomas' Sculpture - Public Sculpture: Coalville To Indianapolis Please support the show by buying Bronze Behaving Badly or ⁠Wax On Wax Off ⁠ by Lucy Branch - at Amazon UK and can be ordered wherever books are soldThis podcast is created by ⁠⁠ Antique Bronze⁠-⁠ Conservation and Restoration of Sculpture and Architectural Features.

Today on the show, Lucy Branch interviews Dr. Neil Armstrong, who has created one of Cornwall's most distinctive sculpture parks. What began as a simple need for "proper playtime" evolved into Treemenheere: a sculpture park built upon a philosophy. This is the story of a man who turned his back on funding bodies and committees to create something purely according to his own vision. As Neil puts it, everything arrives "on the good ship serendipity," and that openness to possibility has created one of Britain's most thoughtful contemporary art spaces. Find out more: Treemenheere Key Discussion Points From GP to Garden Creator - How a mid-career need for adventure led to creating TreemenheereThe Holy Trinity Philosophy - Balancing landscape, sculpture and planting in perfect harmonyLearning What Not to Do - His three-month European sculpture park research sabbaticalThe Committee of One - Why he avoids funding bodies and committees to preserve his visionSculptures Must Earn Their Keep - How artworks function within the landscape, not just decorate itThe Good Ship Serendipity - His unique approach to discovering and selecting artistsThe Serious Amateur Tradition - Pursuing excellence for love rather than moneyFrom Personal Passion to Public Good - How a private project became a cultural institution Please support the show by buying Wax On Wax Off by Lucy Branch - at Amazon UK and can be ordered wherever books are sold ⁠This podcast is created by ⁠Antique Bronze⁠

In this episode, Lucy Branch speaks to sculptor and Royal Academician, Nigel Hall, who discusses his lifelong passion for sculpture. Nigel shares insights into his academic journey and experiences in America that solidified his commitment to sculpture. He delves into his prolific creative process and how he has sustained a successful artistic career over the course of several decades. Follow Nigel’s journey and discover more about his work on his website and Instagram. ⁠Please support the show by buying ⁠Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation⁠ or ⁠Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For BronzeSculpture⁠   This podcast is created by ⁠Antique Bronze⁠ - conservators of sculpture and architectural features.  

Today's episode is an informal yet informative glimpse into host, Lucy Branch's, world behind the bronze as Lucy shares her excitement about completing her latest novel, a 17th-century historical romance. Lucy discusses the spontaneity of creative projects and answers listener questions about her work, podcast, and life. There is also bonus material at the end of the episode if listeners would like to hear the first chapter of her previous book, 'Restoration Murder.' 00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture 00:37 Celebrating a New Novel 03:38 Q&A Session Begins 04:24 Eric Gill Sculpture Controversy 07:01 Smart Water for Sculpture Protection 09:39 Journey into Novel Writing 15:01 Public Sculpture Behaviour 20:03 Influential Books and Time Management Younger Next Year - Chris Crowley and Harry Lodge Essentialism by Greg McKeown The Big Leap - Gay Hendricks 24:21 Podcasting Journey and Future Plans 29:01 Sample Reading from 'Restoration Murder'

In this episode, host ⁠Lucy Branch⁠, introduces ⁠Steven C. Barber⁠, an American filmmaker and producer turned fundraiser for monuments in the US. Barber has raised millions of dollars particularly championing the creation of monuments to astronauts. He shares anecdotes about his journey from documentary filmmaking to monument creator, his unique perspective on memorializing achievements, and his strategies for securing substantial donations from high-profile figures and organizations. Barber's stories emphasize the importance of vision, persistence, and the ability to connect disparate worlds in order to achieve monumental goals. Key Discussion Points 00:50 Vandalism and Restoration Stories Links Mentioned in this section ⁠Robin Hood and Maid Marrion ⁠ ⁠Radio Stoke and Leek War Memorial ⁠ 05:50 Steve Barber's Journey into Filmmaking 10:17 Challenges and Successes in Monument Creation 21:28 Emotional Studio Visit21:56 Meeting the Sculptors 22:25 Building Apollo 11 Monument 24:15 Fundraising for Monuments 26:18 Challenges in Monument Creation 28:12 The Art of Cold Calling 33:38 The President's Monument 35:25 Reflections on Fundraising 42:02 Lucy's Roundup and Future Plans ⁠Connect with Steve C. Barber⁠ Lundeen Sculptors ⁠⁠Please support the show by joining me on Substack - it's free! ⁠ or you can buy one of my non-fiction books if you'd like help or advice with caring for bronze ⁠⁠Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture⁠⁠   This podcast is created by ⁠⁠Antique Bronze⁠⁠

Scottish sculptor Kenny Hunter joins Lucy Branch to discuss the power of public monuments in our fast-paced world. From his first transformative touch of clay to his acclaimed public works, Kenny reveals why he sees sculptures as "phantoms looking down on the city" and shares insights on the theatrical quality of public art, where static figures silently observe as life unfolds around them. This thoughtful conversation explores sculpture as the ultimate "slow art" – work that rewards patient creation and contemplation in an age of instant consumption, inviting listeners to reconsider the quiet monuments we often pass by without notice. Please support the show by buying one of my books. This episode featured, Restoration Murder Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You canfind images to accompany the episode and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation