What happens when the art world’s golden boy vanishes—and leaves behind a trail of deception, millions in missing artwork, and a best friend caught in the blast radius? Today Ceri speaks with Orlando Whitfield: writer, former art dealer, and the author of All That Glitters—a blisteringly honest memoir of ambition, illusion and the cost of loyalty in a world where value is often just a well-told story.

Orlando pulls back the velvet curtain on how the art world really works: the emotional mechanics of value, the seduction of proximity, and the fine line between friendship and coercion. We talk about breakdowns, betrayals, and the kind of care that doesn’t come with a price tag.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Story telling lands sales.

Galleries might promise the world, but often it’s the small teams—the ones who see you clearly, who care—that hold the real value.

The only work worth doing is the work you’d still want to make when nobody’s watching.

BEST MOMENTS

“Most artworks have no intrinsic value whatsoever… emotion becomes economics.”

"Writing a memoir is a sort of shockingly lonely experience, because you're having to live your life again as it were in your head, without anybody else there."

“Art was ruined for me by the money side of it.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.instagram.com/orlando_whitfield_writer

All That Glitters - https://www.amazon.co.uk/All-That-Glitters-Story-Friendship-ebook/dp/B0CGFTCW5X

PODCAST HOST BIO

With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.

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The Artist Mastermind Circle: Ready to stop second-guessing and start building momentum in your art career? Applications are now open for the next Artist Mastermind Circle—a six-month coaching programme for mid-career artists who are serious about growing their confidence, income, and opportunities.

Apply by September 15th, 2025, at https://cerihand.com/artist-mastermind-circle and take the next bold step.

Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today!

https://cerihand.com/membership

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Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course

Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today.

https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network

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Book a Discovery Call Today

To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected]

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Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity

Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/