Ian on BBC London with Jo Good

Ian Berry was interviewed by Jo Good on BBC Radio London on New Years Eve at Broadcasting House in London. They were speaking about his new exhibition at the Smallest Gallery in Soho on Dean Street as well as what happened in the last year and whats upcoming this year.

Have a listen here starting around 1:55

Ian Berry campaigns to save the Bacon in Huddersfield

Francis Bacon Figure Study 2

Ian was asked to join the debate by the Huddersfield Examiner about the councils proposed sale of Francis Bacon's Figure Study 2 which had been donated to the Council but is expensive to insure.

Luckily, as he had followed the debate, and also its not the first time it has been spoken about, he had an opinion. Too much so and ended up sending an essay in response. You can read it here

Ian actually got many positive responses about his view on protecting the piece, as well as what it represents about how we treat culture n a wider context. One warm review came from the Contemporary Arts Society themselves

Ian talks about how regional towns need to have culture and to be able to share it around the country to help inspire other people, especially children. He goes on to discus the soft power that culture represents and the negative impact a possible sale would have on the town. To read the extended version click here

UPDATE!

It was a success! the Contemporary Art Society slapped the council down and pointed out that if they tried to sell, ownership would revert to them and they would give it another Institution. Good news!