From Community Focus to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition: Laurent's Journey

Send us Fan MailCommunity Focus artist Laurent Barsotti  has achieved something extraordinary.In this special episode of Dis-labled, we follow Laurent’s journey from Community Focus to exhibiting at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions.We begin at Royal Academy varnishing day, where Royal Academician Humphrey Ocean explains why Laurent’s London bus painting stood out from thousands of entries and earned a place in his room. We also hear from comedian Harry Hill, an admirer and collector of Laurent’s artwork.In the second half of the programme, Laurent and his mum Chantal share the story behind this remarkable achievement. From developing confidence through art at Community Focus to seeing his work displayed on the walls of the Royal Academy, it’s an inspiring story of creativity, perseverance and passion.Community Focus is an Arts Centre for children and adults with disabilities. We are based in the borough of Barnet, North London and offer a selection of creative and well-being activities for all ages.00:00:16 - Intro00:01:06 - Live from the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026: Varnishing Day00:03:04 - We speak to Humphrey Ocean RA00:04:12 - We speak to comedian and fellow artist, Harry Hill00:05:07 - Reflections on the day00:05:53 - In the room we have...00:06:12 - Laurent and his mum, Chantal join us in the studio00:06:22 - Laurent answers questions from the Dis-labled crew00:13:44 - Chantal answers questions from the Dis-labled crew00:21:15 - What were the highlights of the day?00:25:53 - Final ThoughtsProject Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil PowellEditor: Phil PowellHuge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.ukAll enquiries: [email protected]: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot