Sculpture Vulture

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 ConservationContact Lucy: Lucy@antiquebronze.co.uk 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, ItalyTopics 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 practiceConnect with Rebecca Hawkins:Instagram: @rebeccahawkinssculptureLinkedIn: Rebecca HawkinsSupport 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: lucy@antiquebronze.co.uk 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 CommunityKey Discussion Points:Pietrasanta's Unique Ecosystem and its HistoryInternational 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 TourismThe 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 hereContact Lucy and tell her if you've been inspired by sculpture... or the show - lucy@antiquebronze.co.uk 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 ConservationLeave a review: Reviews help other sculpture enthusiasts discover the podcastSpread the word: Tell others in your network about your favourite episodes and enable others to find the Sculpture Vulture TribeVisit the website: Find the "Support the Show" button at sculpture-vulture.co.ukEvery 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 termsFind 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 Bronze⁠Please 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 HistoryWhere: The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Avenue, Huntington, New YorkWhen: September 28, 2025 - March 15, 2026Website: heckscher.orgFeatures 14 sculptures plus archival materials, including works not publicly displayed in over a century. A 256-page eThe exhibition travels to Chicago, Cincinnati, Charlottesville, and possibly other venues.Guest: Karli Wurzelbacher, PhDChief 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: Lucy@antiquebronze.co.ukThis 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 CriticKey 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 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 SculptureYou can see photos of Tom's work and read the transcript at www.sculpturesulture.co.ukContact Lucy Branch - lucy@antiquebronze.co.ukThis podcast is created by ⁠AntiqueBronze⁠

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 Conservation⁠or⁠Wax 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 Vulture00:37 Celebrating a New Novel03:38 Q&A Session Begins04:24 Eric Gill Sculpture Controversy07:01 Smart Water for Sculpture Protection09:39 Journey into Novel Writing15:01 Public Sculpture Behaviour20:03 Influential Books and Time ManagementYounger Next Year - Chris Crowley and Harry LodgeEssentialism by Greg McKeownThe Big Leap - Gay Hendricks24:21 Podcasting Journey and Future Plans29:01 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 Points00:50 Vandalism and Restoration StoriesLinks Mentioned in this section ⁠Robin Hood and Maid Marrion ⁠⁠Radio Stoke and Leek War Memorial ⁠05:50 Steve Barber's Journey into Filmmaking10:17 Challenges and Successes in Monument Creation21:28 Emotional Studio Visit21:56 Meeting the Sculptors22:25 Building Apollo 11 Monument24:15 Fundraising for Monuments26:18 Challenges in Monument Creation28:12 The Art of Cold Calling 33:38 The President's Monument35:25 Reflections on Fundraising42:02 Lucy's Roundup and Future Plans⁠Connect with Steve C. Barber⁠Lundeen Sculptors⁠⁠Please 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 bronze⁠⁠Bronze Behaving Badly: Principles of Bronze Conservation⁠⁠or⁠⁠Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture⁠⁠ This podcast is created by ⁠⁠Antique Bronze⁠⁠

In today's episode, ⁠Lucy Branch⁠, speaks with sculptor ⁠John Belardo ⁠about the remarkable Piccirilli brothers, six Italian immigrant sculptors who revolutionized American monumental sculpture in the early 20th century. John shares his 25-year journey researching these master craftsmen who created some of America's most iconic monuments while remaining largely unknown to the public.About Our GuestJohn Belardo is a New York-based sculptor and educator who teaches at the New York Academy of Art, Art Students League of New York, and Lehman College. With a studio practice in the Hudson Valley, John specializes in narrative sculpture featuring multiple figures that tell stories.Website: ⁠⁠johnbelardo.com⁠⁠ Episode Highlights: You can find images to accompany the episode and a transcription of the interview at  ⁠SculptureVulture Blog ⁠Please support the show by purchasing, ⁠Bronze Behaving Badly⁠, about the foundations of preserving sculptureand architectural features. Or, one of several novels about sculpture such as, ⁠A Rarer Gift Than Gold⁠, by Lucy Branch. This episode was brought to you by ⁠Antique Bronze,⁠ specialising in the conservation and restoration of public sculpture and architectural features

The Art of War with Sabin HowardIn this episode, we sit down with sculptor Sabin Howard, the artist behind America's World War I Memorial in Washington D.C. From an unexpected creative awakening in a Philadelphia woodworking shop to creating one of the most significant public artworks of our time, Howard shares his extraordinary journey and philosophical approach to classical sculpture in the modern world.Episode Highlights- How an impulsive decision to quit his woodworking job led Sabin to art school and eventually to becoming one of today's leading classical sculptors- The massive undertaking of creating the WWI Memorial: 25 iterations, 12,000 reference photos, and a 18m bronze relief- Working with combat veterans as models and how it transformed his understanding of service and art- His experience navigating government bureaucracy while maintaining artistic vision- Why he believes public art should unify and elevate consciousness rather than alienate- The upcoming documentary "Heroic" chronicling the creation of the memorial (releasing June 2025)Memorable Quotes"We need to kick them out of the temple and take back art for we the people and make it go in a direction that's about elevating us and about higher consciousness."About Sabin HowardSabin Howard is a classical sculptor whose work combines Renaissance traditions with contemporary emotional depth. As the sculptor of America's World War I Memorial, he has created one of the largest bronze relief sculptures in history, telling the story of a soldier's journey through 38 figures across 116 feet.Connect with Sabin Howard- Website:www.sabinhoward.com- Instagram: @sabinhowardsculptures- X/Twitter: @sabinhowardComing SoonLook out for the documentary "Heroic: Sabin Howard Sculpting the National World War I Memorial" releasing in June 2025.---Other mentions in the show:Dolphin Square: The Most Notorious Address in the UKThis episode is brought to you byAntique Bronze: THE Business in Bronze ConservationIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It helps other sculpture enthusiasts find our show!

Today on the show, Lucy Branch talks to one of Scotland's most important figurative public sculptors, Alan Beattie Herriot. In this episode, we explore his journey from playing in bands to fund his art, to creating iconic works like the Robert the Bruce at Marischal College and The Elizabeth Sword for the Scottish Crown. Together, we explore how his monuments have become beloved landmarks in their communities, creating a must-listen episode for anyone interested in public art, Scottish culture, and the creative spirit. Please support the show by purchasing Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax on Wax Off about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features. Or, one of several novels such as Restoration Murder by Lucy Branch.  This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze specialists in sculpture conservation.

A Happy New Year Episode for Sculpture Vultures everywhere. Host, Lucy Branch, interviews Brett Colbert, co-founder of the The Pneuma Art Foundation based in Florence. Brett shares his unique journey from medical school and seminary to founding Pneuma with his wife Olivia. He describes how Pneuma supports artists and sculptors in their professional development, providing opportunities for growth and fostering a community. The interview explores Pneuma's upcoming projects, including an exhibit inspired by Ghiberti's Bronze Baptistry doors. If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, ⁠Bronze Behaving Badly⁠, or ⁠Wax On Wax Off, How To Care For Bronze Sculpture⁠ . Or, one of several thriller/mystery novels about sculpture such as, ⁠Restoration Murder ⁠by Lucy Branch. This podcast was brought to you by ⁠Antique Bronze

In this special Christmas episode, ⁠Lucy Branch⁠ is joined by professional sculptor, Ben Broadbent, who runs Apex Art Services and has over 20 years experience in casting and sculpting. They discuss their shared passion for sculpture, the challenges and rewards of being a sculptor, and how their different art forms offer solace and inspiration. The episode also delves into their personal experiences with specific sculptures that have had a profound impact on them such as, Ian Rank Broadley's Armed Forces Memorial, Paul Day's, Kiss and others. If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, or Wax On Wax Off, How To Care For Bronze Sculpture . Or, one of several thriller/mystery novels about sculpture such as, Restoration Murder by Lucy Branch. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze  

In this episode, Lucy Branch delves into the artistic journey of Jonathan Hateley, a talented sculptor whose passion for art began early in his life. Hear about his mentors, his challenges, and the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic career. Jonathan also discusses his unique artistic style, the influence of nature on his work, and the development of his captivating sculptures. Gain insight into the life of an artist balancing creativity with the business aspects of art. 00:00 Introduction to Sculpture Vulture 00:35 Upcoming Trip to Dublin 03:26 Sculpture News and Media 05:03 Interview with Jonathan Hately 06:04 Jonathan Hately's Artistic Journey 10:28 Challenges and Inspirations 22:22 The Role of Mentorship 24:16 Jonathan's Unique Sculptural Style 33:09 Balancing Art and Business 40:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 45:30 Supporting the Show Please support the show by buying one of my fiction or non-fiction books or you can Buy Me A Coffee at buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch

In this episode, host Lucy Branch sits down with acclaimed art historian and curator, Richard Calvocoressi. Richard has held prestigious roles at institutions like Tate, The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and The Henry Moore Foundation, where he served as Director. He shares insights into the important work of the Henry Moore Foundation, which aims to conserve, display, and promote the legacy of the renowned British sculptor Henry Moore. Richard discusses the Foundation's efforts to keep Moore's art and influence visible globally through exhibitions, loans, academic research, and more. He provides a fascinating look at the elements that took this sculptor from a revered professional to a household name. Please support the show by buying me a coffee at ⁠buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch ⁠ Or, you can purchase one of Lucy Branch's non-fiction books ⁠Bronze Behaving Badly⁠ or ⁠Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture⁠ on Amazon UK or ⁠Other Online Stores Stores⁠ If you like novels about sculpture, you might enjoy one by ⁠Lucy Branch ⁠ This podcast was brought to you by ⁠Antique Bronze⁠

London's Edwardian Department Stores are filled with sculpture, craft and design. Today, Lucy Branch and Tessa Boase, discuss their shared love of this subject and the decline of these titans of retail. If you'd like a copy of Tessa's book - London's Lost Department Stores: A Vanished World of Dazzle and Dreams can be bought here. You can find the accompanying blogpost and images to the interview at www.sculpturevulture.co.uk Please support the show by buying me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch Or, you can purchase one of Lucy Branch's non-fiction books Bronze Behaving Badly or Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Bronze Sculpture on Amazon UK or Other Online Stores Stores If you like novels about sculpture, you might enjoy one by Lucy Branch This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze

In this episode, Lucy Branch, delves into the life and legacy of sculptor, Roy Noakes, whose journey from a humble East End background to a profound artist is as inspiring as it is instructive. Our guest, Biddy Noakes, shares her personal and intimate perspective on Roy's evolution as an artist, from his early days as an apprentice carver to his deep exploration of form and light, from traditional carving to innovative sculptural expressions. Our discussion also touches on a universal challenge that many artists and their families face: managing an artist's legacy. Biddy opens up about her current struggle with what to do with Roy's body of work and how best to honour his artistic intentions. If you'd like to support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, about the foundations of preserving sculpture and architectural features or Wax On Wax Off: How To Care For Sculpture. Or, one of several novels by Lucy Branch where sculpture is always at the heart of the story. This podcast was brought to you by Antique Bronze

Today, ⁠⁠Lucy Branch ⁠⁠brings us an update after a break of almost two years. Find out what has been occurring since the last interview. Catch-up with show host and hear about what's next for Sculpture Vulture. Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.   The books mentioned in this episode are ⁠Seven Summers⁠ by Paige Toon and ⁠Wax On Wax Off - How To Care For Bronze Sculpture ⁠by Lucy Branch This podcast was brought to you by ⁠⁠Antique Bronze⁠⁠ specialists in sculpture conservation