From the archives: Sally Hirst turns memory into material

Show Notes

Takeaways from this episode:

• Repurposing is a mindset, not just a material choice.

  Sally’s practice revolves around reworking and reimagining – from using abandoned book covers and old packaging as printing plates, to transforming her own paintings and prints into new collage elements. What’s worth saving, and how might it be seen differently?

• The studio is a conversation.

  For Sally, painting, printmaking and collage don’t exist in silos – they constantly inform and cross-pollinate. Each piece becomes part of a larger dialogue between intention, intuition and material.

• Not knowing is part of the process.

  Sally doesn’t begin with a fixed outcome – she welcomes uncertainty as a creative strategy. By delaying decisions and resisting early resolution, she keeps discovery alive in her work.

• Parameters can set you free.

  Whether it’s working with a limited palette, a square format or a weekend sketchbook, Sally finds that creative constraints invite deeper focus. What boundaries might actually give you more freedom?

• Teaching is a two-way street.

  Having spent years “uploading her head” through workshops and courses, Sally sees education as reciprocal. “You learn from students just as much as they learn from you,” she says. Teaching can sharpen your own understanding – and offer unexpected inspiration.

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Explore the artwork from this episode below

During the live interview, we shared some images of Sally’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made these images available for you below.