Sculpture Vulture

Interviews and Inspiration From The World of Sculpture. Join, Lucy Branch, sculptural conservator and author, as she talks to sculptors whose work can be found in public spaces. They discuss their creative journeys, their artistic practice and their shared love for all things bronze. Find the show notes at www.sculpturevulture.co.uk and download your free novel.

Tom Murphy's Sculpture - An Ode To Liverpool

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

09-16
52:01

Transforming Space Into Sculpture With Nigel Hall RA

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.  

05-06
51:11

Behind the Bronze: Lucy Branch FAQs

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'

04-22
37:09

Thinking Monumentally with Steven C. Barber

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

04-08
44:14

The Monumental Impact of The Piccirilli Brothers with John Belardo

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

02-25
46:32

The Art of War with Sabin Howard

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!

02-11
48:44

Sculpting Scottish Stories with Alan Beattie Herriot

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.

01-27
42:11

For The Love of Sculpture with The Pneuma Art Foundation

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

12-30
40:28

Merry and Bright: Public Sculpture That Lights Up Our World with Ben Broadbent

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  

12-24
45:39

Jonathan Hateley: A Sculptor's Dance With Time And Nature

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

12-10
48:11

Professional To Legend: Henry Moore with Richard Calvocoressi

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

07-09
50:30

Art and Craft in London's Lost Department Stores with Tessa Boase

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

06-25
45:31

Roy Noakes' Creative Journey, Legacy Challenges and Dynamic Abstract Sculpture

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

06-11
42:59

Update 2024

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 

04-30
16:33

Other Dimensions, Free-Drawing and Monumental Bronze Sculpture with David Breuer-Weil

Today, Lucy Branch talks to David Breuer-Weil who is a painter and sculptor. His works have been installed in major public spaces in London including Hampstead Heath, Hanover Square, Grosvenor Gardens, Marble Arch and around the world. His work can’t help but stop you in your tracks – it’s not of this world, it’s fragmented parts, it’s out of another dimension!  Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of David Breuer-Weil's work and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, 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 

03-22
41:57

Gatekeepers, Having A Big Family and Figurative Sculpture with Nicola Godden

Today, Lucy Branch, talks to, Nicola Godden, who is a figurative sculptor. Although the majority of her work Is for private owners, she has created well known and well loved monuments including Icarus for London 2012 Olympic Village, Sir Peter Scott sculpture for London Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre in barnes and Hammersmith Man on the Hammersmith fly over among others.  Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of Nicola Godden's work and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show, please consider purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, 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

03-08
41:09

Medieval guilds, To Thine Own Self Be True and Public Sculpture with Mark Richards

Today, Lucy Branch talks to Mark Richards whose list of public monuments is vast including, The Matthew Flinders Monument in Euston Station, The Vernon monument, Portsmouth, The Roger Casement Statue in Ireland, The Big Tom McBride Sculpture in Co Monaghan among many others. We discuss the role of medieval guilds in his career choice, his moral compass when it comes to serving communities and what it takes to create such a vast body of work.   Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of Mark Richard's work and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by buying one of Lucy Branch's novels about the dark side of the art world or via https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lucybranch

02-15
37:41

Protective Coatings For Bronze And Bronze Maintenance Frequency

Today, Lucy Branch, discusses Protective Coatings for Bronze, in this practical conservation episode. It's the No 1 question we get asked at Antique Bronze along with, How Frequently Should We Maintain Our Bronze Sculpture? Both questions have lots of factors to consider and, there's no easy answer.  Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of the sculptors that have been interviewed this season at the Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, in paperback, ebook or hardback, about the foundations of preserving bronze sculpture and architectural features.

02-08
30:18

The Sculptor Within, Self-Doubt and Portrait Sculpture with Christine Charlesworth

Today, Lucy Branch talks to Christine Charlesworth who specializes in figurative and portrait sculptures. She's an Elected member of the Society of Women Artists, and The Royal British Society of Sculptors. She was one of the Official Artists with BT from 2010 leading up to and including 2012 Olympics. In 2021 alone, she has completed public commissions for Greta Thurnberg for Winchester University, Dame Ethel Smyth, the English composer and member of the women's suffrage movement for Woking and, Emily Wilding Davison, in Epsom - the activist and suffragette.  Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of Christine's work and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by buying one of, Lucy Branch's, novels about the dark side of the art world. Her 2021 New Release is Restoration Murder  

01-25
43:30

Gaining Traction, Finding Your Niche and Equestrian Sculpture with Charlie Langton

Today on the podcast, Lucy Branch, talks to Charlie Langton who is one of the most sought-after equine artists of our time. His sculptures revels in the difference in attitude, character and physicality that sets champion racehorses apart. He has undertaken major commissions of famous racehorses including his over-life-size bronze tribute to four-time Gold Cup Winner, Yeats, in the parade ring at Ascot Racecourse. His interview is particularly interesting because his area of work is so niche, anyone who thinks that they couldn’t possibly build a business by focusing on just one thing will be proved wrong by his story. Join us and BE INSPIRED BY SCULPTURE.  You can find images of Charlie Langdon's work and a transcription of the interview at  Sculpture Vulture Blog - SCULPTURE VULTURE Please support the show by purchasing, Bronze Behaving Badly, 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 

01-11
37:55

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