In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke welcomes Sam Cullis, the driving force behind the newly rebranded London Breeze Film Festival. With years of championing emerging talent, Sam dives into the festival’s evolution from its humble beginnings as Barnes Film Festival to its current status as a BIFA-qualifying powerhouse. He discusses the real challenges of running a film festival that balances artistic passion and financial realities, debunking myths and giving a candid look at what it really takes to survive in the festival circuit today.

We’ll explore everything from the role of community in shaping a festival’s identity to the influence of AI on future programming.

https://filmfreeway.com/londonbreeze

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In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke delves into the eclectic world of William Banks, a creative artist based in New York City whose work transcends traditional boundaries. From his multifaceted career as an actor in films and writer of comedy shows to the surreal decade he spent on Car World, an otherworldly planet in a parallel universe, Clarke explores the inspirations and unusual experiences that fuel Banks’ unique creative vision. The conversation highlights his comedic, yet poignant storytelling and the inventive spirit that defines his craft.

To support William Banks and learn more about his work and ongoing challenges, visit freewilliambanks.com. This resource sheds light on his journey and the upcoming events surrounding his incarceration beginning on November 15th.

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In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke embarks on an in-depth exploration of Zardoz, John Boorman’s 1974 cult film, as it marks its 50th anniversary. Revisiting the surreal and provocative landscape of this dystopian classic, Clarke delves into its historical reception and evolving significance in today’s sociopolitical climate, from the film’s bold commentary on power and spirituality to its parallels with modern concerns about fascism, gun culture, and spiritual disconnection. The conversation weaves through the film's psychedelic cinematic legacy, comparisons to counterculture movements, and connections to both philosophical ideologies and spiritual teachings.

On the 50th anniversary of its release, Repeater Books is honoured to reissue John Boorman’s novelization of Zardoz, complete with a new introduction by the director. This definitive edition is now available from major book retailers.

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In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke delves into the world of experimental sound and visual art with author and music journalist David Stubbs. Exploring his latest book, Fear of Music: Why People Get Rothko but Don’t Get Stockhausen, the conversation tackles the cultural challenges around avant-garde appreciation and our biases in music versus visual art. Stubbs offers thought-provoking insights into avant-garde legends like Karlheinz Stockhausen, the emotional resonance of Rothko’s paintings, and the influence of artists like The Caretaker and William Basinski in an age of nostalgia and internet culture.

David Stubbs’ Fear of Music is available through Zero Books as part of the Zero Classics collection, from most online sellers in the UK and US.

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In this episode of the UK Desk for Arts Express, Jack Clarke delves into the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, analysing the deeper ramifications of the current crisis, including the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

With sharp commentary and historical insight, the episode explores the power dynamics at play, the roots of Palestinian anger, and Israel's role in shaping the conflict. Drawing on examples like the "Bees for Peace" project—a metaphor for the potential of cooperation—the discussion challenges listeners to rethink the narrative and consider paths toward peace amidst the chaos.

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In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke dives into the world of Steven Spielberg with acclaimed film historian and critic Ian Nathan. Exploring the director’s lasting influence on modern cinema, the conversation covers everything from the birth of the blockbuster with Jaws, Spielberg's collaborations with legendary figures like John Williams, to his groundbreaking use of sound and cinematography in films like Saving Private Ryan. Nathan offers keen insights into Spielberg’s thematic fascinations with childhood, historical narratives, and his enduring adaptability in the evolving film industry.

Ian Nathan's latest book, 'Steven Spielberg: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work,' is now available for purchase in both the UK and US.

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In this episode of Arts Express, UK Desk host Jack Clarke interviews theologian, writer, and arts advocate Wesley Vander Lugt. With a PhD in Theology, Imagination, and the Arts from the University of St. Andrews, Wes brings his unique perspective to the table, exploring the deep intersections of art, faith, and social commentary. The discussion centres around Wes’s latest book, A Prophet in the Darkness: Georges Rouault and the Power of Modern Art, which delves into the life and work of French artist Georges Rouault.

Together, Jack and Wes unpack how Rouault’s bold depictions of marginalized figures, like clowns and prostitutes, challenge our modern understanding of dignity, sin, and redemption. Wes also reflects on Rouault’s prophetic vision and how his art still speaks powerfully to contemporary audiences.

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In this special episode of the UK Desk Arts Express, host Jack Clarke conducts an intimate interview with Mary Caldwell, wife of the late and legendary singer-songwriter Bobby Caldwell. As a lifelong fan of Bobby’s music, this conversation holds significant personal meaning for the host and offers a rare glimpse into the life and legacy of the man behind timeless hits like "What You Won’t Do for Love."

The interview explores Bobby Caldwell’s enduring impact on the music industry, his artistic process, and how his legacy continues through the work and memories of his loved ones. This is not just a tribute to Bobby’s remarkable career, but also a heartfelt dialogue that sheds light on his life beyond the music, making this segment an essential listen for both longtime fans and newcomers.

For more on Bobby Caldwell’s life and legacy, visit bobbycaldwell.com.

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