How did you make the transition from journalist and TV producer to artist?
I have been doing both simultaneously for years. TV isn’t that dramatic a departure. Design is also visually led. But today many of us do more than one thing. I know journalists who also play instruments or also write for the theatre or also sing. It’s only very recently that people began to specialise so much.
What’s the main inspiration for your first solo art show?
Fun. My letters are like dolls I like to dress up and take places.
You’ve spent a lifetime exploring words. What is your word?
I think ‘hope’ is a good word. It’s what helped prisoners survive the camps. It’s what makes most of us keep going. I hope the show will go well.
What cliché do you most dislike?
I hate it when people start sentences with ‘to be honest’ when you know they are about to lie.
What are you currently reading?
These days it usually has the word ‘art’ in it: Russian Art at the moment.
Does your neighbourhood inspire you?
I am very lucky to live in Notting Hill. You have to force yourself to leave the hood. There isn’t a particularly good reason to.
How would you describe a typical work day?
Wake up, panic, drink coffee, panic, work, work some more. Crash.
Who is your favourite artist?
I love the American abstract expressionists… Willem de Kooning etc — all that mad slinging of paint. But I have a secret weakness for Caspar David Friedrich, too, plus Damien Hirst but only for taking the piss.
What’s your philosophy on life?
It’s about the journey. I am grateful that I am permanently having to learn new things.
How would you spend a perfect day in Notting Hill?
Take Wilson (the dog) to Holland Park followed by coffee with a friend at Melograno. Lunch with (a different) friend at The Electric Diner, catch a film with the whole family at the Gate, followed by pizza at La Famiglia.
Themes & Variations is a good fit with your love of design. Did you have this venue in mind while preparing for your show?
I was thrilled when Liliane Fawcett [gallerist] turned around and said, ‘I want to do a show.’ It was her idea.
What’s your favourite local restaurant?
I love E&O, though I wish more sushi restaurants would open locally.
How do you balance family life with work?
There is no balance. I never understood the principle.
How do you relax?
I watch box sets like the rest of the world.
What’s next?
More words!
