What happens when a building unzips or a canal boat loops the loop mid-air? This week, Ceri is joined by the extraordinary Alex Chinneck, the British artist known for bending reality one brick at a time, dubbed arts master illusionist by The Guardian, Alex has carved out a global reputation for his large-scale public artworks that melt, slide, hover and ripple through the urban landscape.

They discuss how a childhood love of painting and a no-nonsense art teacher set him on a path to sculpting the surreal from cross-country running to cross-disciplinary collaboration, Alex shares how stamina, curiosity and sheer force of will underpin his most ambitious illusions. He reveals how a derelict Hackney warehouse became the site of his first major breakthrough, how he persuaded a wax factory to donate 11 tonnes of leg wax, and how he ended up installing a twisted phone box just metres from number 10. This episode is about ambition without arrogance, spectacle with substance and the messy, exhilarating art of pulling it off.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ambition isn’t about ego or spectacle; it’s about the courage to bring big ideas to life, to invite others in, and to create work that resonates far beyond the art world.

Bold ideas come to life through grit, creative problem-solving, relentless negotiation, and the courage to turn resistance into opportunity; real innovation is forged in the face of challenge.

When you put your work out into the public, you never know how it will be received. Often, the courage to share your true vision sparks excitement far beyond your expectations.

BEST MOMENTS

“You don't have to wait for permission to make ambitious work. Start with the idea, then learn how to pull it off. One door, one brick, one yes at a time.”

“Sometimes the most radical thing an artist can do is make people smile.”

“Public art isn't just about scale, it’s about context, community and commitment.”

“Coaching clears out the noise so that people have better thoughts in which to help them do better work, while building up their tools of resilience.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.alexchinneck.com

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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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/