The exhibition ‘Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life’ at Tate St Ives not only showcases over 30 examples of the work of one of the twentieth century’s most inspiring artists and a true pioneer of modernist sculpture but also reflects on her links with Cornwall.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Giles Jackson, Assistant Curator at Tate St Ives for an insight into the life and work of Barbara Hepworth and her work which is on display in the exhibition ‘Barbara Hepworth:  Life & Art’ too.

Giles began by explaining to Toby why Barbara Hepworth decided to move from London at the outbreak of World War II to set up her home, art studio and workshop  in St Ives.

Giles then talked about Barbara Hepworth’s early studies at Leeds School of Art and the Royal College of Art in London, her travels around Europe and life in London too and how her early work during these times is explored through the exhibition.

Toby and Giles then discussed on how well Barbara Hepworth fitted in with the people and artist community in St Ives and how the local Cornish landscape and people influenced some of her work with examples that are also on display in the exhibition too. 

The exhibition also includes some of Barbara Hepworth’s stage designs for a production at the Old Vic Theatre in London and also explores her interest in science and technology too. 

‘Barbara Hepworth:  Art & Life’ continues at Tate St Ives until 1 May 2023, more details about the exhibition and access at Tate St Ives can be found on the following website or by emailing Visiting [email protected] or calling 0173 679 6226.

https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-st-ives/barbara-hepworth-art-and-life

Image shows: Dame Barbara Hepworth, Oval Sculpture (No.2) (1943, cast 1958) Tate Barbara Hepworth © Bowness. An off-white oval sculpture which resembles the shape of an egg lying on it's side. There is a large hole through the sculpture with two smooth round bridges connecting one side of the hollowed out side to the other. The piece is on a thin, dark wooden plinth