In this episode I speak with the fascinating scientist and writer Matthew Cobb whose books and research cover a wide range of topics from, in no particular order – how we came to understand the process of reproduction, how maggots smell, to genetics, how the brain works, to the French resistance! We explore the imaginative and collaborative nature of both art and science - discussing Matthew’s current work on a biography of Francis Crick (out in Nov 2025), the challenges of communicating complex scientific ideas, and the role of creativity in both scientific and artistic practice.

We talk about the mysteries of consciousness, the power of metaphor in science, and how storytelling shapes understanding. Matthew reflects on the influences that have shaped his thinking, the importance of generosity in academia, and the shared curiosity that drives both artists and scientists. Matthews enthusiastic, wide range of knowledge and insights celebrate not just what we know, but the beauty of what we don’t yet understand.

Works by Matthew can be found online, in bookshops or your local library.

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In this episode I talk to the wonderful artist David Gledhill about his work and upcoming exhibition at Rogue Gallery, Manchester. David has exhibited widely both in the UK and internationally, including Frankfurt, Berlin, Milan and Brussels and was recently awarded a PhD from PAHC at the Manchester School of Art.

In addition to his activity as an artist, David has contributed writing and reviews to numerous artist’s projects and publications. He is co-director of Rogue Artists’ Studios CIC in Manchester, the largest artists’ studios in the North of England.

David’s recent work centres on the use of both personal and institutional photographic archives to produce sequences of paintings that address historical and political themes through the lived experience of their subjects. Works by David are in the collections of East Sussex County Council, Rank Xerox, Halliwell's, Touchstones Rochdale, Deutsche Kreditbank AG Berlin, and Steven Berkoff.

Please do go and check out Davids fabulous exhibition titled Parties, - the private view is this Saturday June 14th from 2-5pm at Rogue studios, 2-6 Barrass Street, Openshaw, Manchester M11 1PU and will be open to the public every Friday and Saturday 12-5 pm until July 27th. It really is incredible.

If you enjoyed this episode please , follow, share, spread the word and look out for more brilliant conversations coming soon. You can find the grateful web on ACAST, spotify, AND apple podcasts, You can also find and follow us on Instagram at - the underscore grateful underscore web and at jo underscore clements

This podcast has been made possible with the generous support from GMCA Inspire Fund that has a remit to support the regrowth and strengthening of the creative sector in Greater Manchester and by an a-n Artists Bursary to support artists development in learning new skills, undertaking mentoring or dedicating time to their practice.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Weaving Connections with Gaynor Seville

In this episode of The Grateful Web, I sit down with the brilliant Gaynor Seville, Creative Director of The Whitaker Museum and Art Gallery, to explore the role of generosity, collaboration, and the importance of shared knowledge. We reflect on our early careers, how funding landscapes have shifted, and the vital networks that sustain creative practices. Gaynor shares insights from her work in Salford, County Mayo, and now at The Whitaker—an inspiring space that under her directorship has remerged as an exciting contemporary space for the arts in a beautiful rural setting.

Along the way, we discuss the challenges of securing funding in today’s competitive arts world, the importance of supporting emerging artists, the artist Aideen Barry, the current exhibition at The Whitaker by Jamie Holman and, of course, the excitement of her fabulous new pink kitchen!

Tune in for an insightful, warm, and thought-provoking conversation about the unseen threads that connect us as artists, curators, and cultural workers.

Listen now, subscribe, and be part of The Grateful Web

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Welcome to The Grateful Web—the podcast where art, science, and creative networks collide! Hosted by Manchester-based artist Dr Jo Clements, this series explores the rich ecosystems of artists, curators, and cultural thinkers whose ideas and collaborations shape the cultural landscape. Through candid conversations with artists, scientists, and creative practitioners, The Grateful Web celebrates and acknowledges the generosity, collaborative spirit, support and chance encounters that are essential fuel for artists’ success.

Rooted in the North West’s dynamic art scene, this podcast shines a light on the connections that drive creative communities—from world-renowned institutions to grassroots artist-led spaces. Whether you're an artist, a scientist, or simply someone who loves exploring the ideas that bind us, join us as we weave new connections, explore and expand our grateful web.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.