Talk Art

Everything You Wanted to Know About Contemporary Art but Were Afraid to Ask

By: Russell Tovey, Robert Diament

Narrated by: James Corden, Jerry Saltz, Robert Diament, Russell Tovey

***Includes an exclusive 'Turning the Tables on Talk Art' interview with James Corden***

When launching the Talk Art podcast in 2018, actor Russell Tovey and gallerist Robert Diament had one clear aim: to make the art world more accessible. Since then, the podcast has grown to be a global hit, featuring exclusive interviews with leading artists, curators, gallerists, actors, musicians and fellow art lovers such as Lena Dunham, Sir Paul Smith, David Shrigley, Noel Fielding, Edward Enninful, Rose Wylie and Sir Elton John.

Talk Art, the book, is a celebration of contemporary art, and a guidebook to navigating and engaging with the art world. Covering a range of different media from photography and ceramics to performance and sound art, the book explores the way art interacts with our society, highlights lesser-known artists, and provides a snapshot of the art world as it is today.

The book features highlights from interviews with: Tracey Emin, Jordan Casteel, Jerry Saltz, Elton John, Grayson Perry, Ian McKellen, Alasdair McLellan, Helen Cammock, Somaya Critchlow and many more.

©2021 Russell Tovey and Robert Diament (P)2021 Octopus Publishing Group

Critic reviews

"As rabid admirers and collectors of contemporary art and photography we wholeheartedly recommend this passionate and joyous book. Without art the human soul is unfulfilled. This collection by Russell and Robert fully explains why." (Sir Elton John and David Furnish)

"Russell and Robert have made talking art not just pleasurable but necessary." (Lena Dunham)

"As witty, wise and well informed as Russell and Robert's excellent podcast." (Edward Enninful, OBE)

Great intro and re-intro to the world of art

The next time someone tells me that they don't get art, don't understand it, feel like it's beyond them, or simply out of their league, I shall refer them to this book.

The two men have captured a sense of how the greater population feels out of touch with art and this is a great remedy and solution to fix that. I found it valuable as an artist and art lover, and learned a bit even though I am immersed in the art world of which they speak.

The positive references to Instagram aside (this may date the book and ultimately I wager will be edited out) this is a great starter book AND guide for those that have already commenced their art loving journey.