Born into a cultured and well-connected bohemian family in London, the painter John Craxton (1922-2009) yearned from a very early age to live and work in Greece. He achieved his goal and enduring joy coloured his ensuing pictures – radiant images of a world where myth survived in everyday existence

On this episode of The PastCast, Ian Collins discusses his article in the latest issue of Minerva magazine (also available on The Past website), in which he surveys the life and work of Craxton, an artist with ‘a genius for being in the right place at the right time.’ Ian spoke with regular PastCast presenter, Calum Henderson.

The Past brings together the most exciting stories and the very best writing from the realms of history, archaeology, heritage, and the ancient world. You can subscribe to The Past today for just £7.99. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider liking it, subscribing, and sharing it around.

Ian’s book, John Craxton: A Life of Gifts is published by Yale University Press.