In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to SLART (@SLART.ME)
SLART — a figurative expressionist and proud outsider artist based in Swindon, UK.
He dropped out of his A-level art class after his teacher told him he couldn’t draw large scale. It wasn’t until his late 30s that he picked up pen and ink again, prompted by a blog post that posed three questions about childhood pastimes. His answers were all “drawing and video games”—he chose drawing.
Many life experiences fuel his art, including his adoption, chronic illness, two kidney transplants, the deaths of family members, everyday life, and a fascination with people and their stories — as an observer of others, shaped by chronic shyness and a deep feeling of being an outsider. Now he mainly paints large canvases using oils and acrylics, exploring themes of identity, memory, nostalgia and mortality, but often injects a humorous, self-deprecating element to his work.
He writes about his art practice every Saturday on Substack (Substack www.creamofthecropbyslart.com)
Upcoming solo show 6-18th September www.memementovivere.art
Exhibition Details:
MEMENTO VIVERE (Remember to Live) - Art Exhibition by SLART
The Crypt Gallery, St Pancras Church, Euston Road, London, NW1 2BA
7th September – 18th September 2025
Free Entry
Opening Night Reception: Saturday, 6th September 2025, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Invite only)
In partnership with Beata Maria Rzepecka from Gabriel Fine Arts, invites the public to "MEMENTO VIVERE" (Remember to Live)
"MEMENTO VIVERE" serves as a poignant reminder to embrace the beauty and fragility of existence. The works reflect a deeply personal journey of introspection while touching upon the universal human condition.
"People shy away from death," says SLART, whose work often combines memento mori and spiritual themes with pop culture influences. “This exhibition comes from facing my own health struggles and thinking a lot about life and death. But it’s not all heavy — it’s actually about hope and reflection. It’s a reminder to wake up, notice the little things, and really live — with no regrets. Even when life feels messy, there’s still beauty and meaning to be found."
The exhibition aims to challenge viewers to reflect on their own lives, mortality, and choices, creating an appreciation for the fleeting nature of time. Using raw expression, SLART’s art navigates complex emotions, testifying to human resilience and the drive to live fully during our finite lives.
For more information on the work of SLART go to
https://www.slart.me
To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts
For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.co.uk
Email: ministryofartsorg@gmail.com
Social Media: @ministryofartsorg
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