Why is it so many of us paint, draw or in some way turn to creativity in tough times? When we’re told to stay at home, and required to hold our family and friends literally at arm’s length why do we look to the arts to make things better?

 

The comedian Noel Fielding, well-known for his role as one half of The Mighty Boosh, is a comedian, writer, actor, artist, musician and now the presenter of a much-loved TV show about baking. Sue Tilley is an artist. She’s best known as the subject of Lucian Freud’s painting Benefits Supervisor Sleeping and her book written about her close friend Leigh Bowery: The Life and Times of an Icon.

 

Coping Mechanisms is a Somerset House podcast

Created by Iain Forsyth & Jane Pollard 

Produced by Eleanor Scott & Daniel Breuer

Music by Bernholtz.  

Thank you to all the artists who have contributed to the series