Trusting the Thread: Holly Stevenson on Creative Instincts and Artistic Integrity

For the British artist Holly Stevenson clay, memory and psychoanalysis intertwine in hauntingly playful sculptures. This conversation traces Holly’s extraordinary journey—from her Russian grandmother’s concentration camp survival and the inspiration a Chilean refugee provided, to set design in Rome and motherhood, all the way to her groundbreaking residency at the Freud Museum. Discover how Holly’s fiercely independent spirit, and fascination with what hides in plain sight have shaped her visceral, intimate works. KEY TAKEAWAYS Holly´s work is heavily influenced by psychoanalysis, both in subject matter and in approach. Holly finds beauty and meaning in everyday materials like clay, wood, paper, and even bed sheets. The creative path is rarely linear, but it can be deeply coherent if we learn to trust our instincts and follow the thread of our own obsessions. BEST MOMENTS “Holly makes the invisible visible - emotionally, materially and economically.” “I wanted to see something or hear something affirmative. But it's not about that, is it? It's about process. It's about accumulation. It's about one mark plus one mark, plus three marks plus 5000 marks, makes a drawing.” “Clay, like life, demands presence and patience. It cracks, resists, warps and still invites you back.” EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.holly-stevenson.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/holly__stevenson PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** The Artist Mastermind Circle: Ready to stop second-guessing and start building momentum in your art career? Applications are now open for the next Artist Mastermind Circle—a six-month coaching programme for mid-career artists who are serious about growing their confidence, income, and opportunities. Apply by September 15th 2025 at https://cerihand.com/artist-mastermind-circle/ and take the next bold step. Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/