Amanda Speedie

Talking Art

Marketing is often a problem for creative people. Getting the message out to the wider world doesn't always sit easily alongside the real drive, which is working at a sensory and frequently intuitive level with a chosen medium, so it seems many artists could do with an agent or another method of going public. Cornwall does have galleries in many towns, particularly those which attract tourists but it can be more of a challenge to get artwork on display to as many people as possible throughout the year. Some artists get together and rent gallery space, so that a wide range of work is on display, rather than hidden away in private studios at home.

One solution to this problem is local film-maker Kenny Barnes' idea to make a film of interviews with the artists which will allow them to talk about their work, rather than to write about it. The film showcases local artists' work, and will be available in galleries throughout Cornwall. DVDs provide an easily portable format to spread the word, and for people to look at artwork before deciding to travel to see it. Artists who have contributed to the project so far are Hilary Bunting, Barbara McMillan, Tony and Ann Foster and Keith Bunt.

For more information about the Cornwall Artists' Interview series, please go to www.parstudios.co.uk

Each of these artists works in very different ways but it is hoped that the filmed interviews will provide an opportunity for them to talk to interested people about their inspiration and their work, and to get the message out of the studio and into the marketplace. Click here for the fuller picture