The Imperial War Museum (IWM) is set to unveil the third season of its critically acclaimed podcast Conflict of Interest this January. With a stellar lineup of celebrity guests, expert insights, and exclusive access to the Blavatnik Art, Film, and Photography Galleries, this season promises to shed new light on history’s most profound conflicts through the lens of art, film, and photography.
A Fresh Approach to History: Private Tours with Celebrity Guests
In this season, renowned personalities will embark on private tours led by conflict experts and IWM curators. The podcast’s unique format combines personal storytelling with historical exploration, making complex topics accessible and engaging for listeners of all backgrounds.
Notable Guests Include:
- Rachel Parris: Comedian known for her wit and sharp insights.
- Geoff Norcott: Comedian with a flair for storytelling.
- Susan Wokoma: Accomplished actress and writer.
- Helen Lewis: Esteemed journalist and commentator.
- Carl Miller: Author and podcaster exploring the impact of technology.
Six Themes That Define the Series
Each episode revolves around a central theme, bringing new perspectives to pivotal moments in history.
- The Home Front – How ordinary lives were transformed by extraordinary circumstances.
- Dreams and Nightmares – Exploring personal stories and the human psyche during conflict.
- Technology and Innovation – Examining how technological advances reshaped warfare.
- War Dead and Wounded – Remembering the human cost of conflict.
- Protest and Propaganda – Investigating how dissent and messaging shaped public perception.
- Destruction and Reconstruction – Unpacking the aftermath of war and rebuilding efforts.
Exclusive Insights from the Blavatnik Galleries
The new permanent Blavatnik Art, Film, and Photography Galleries at IWM London provide the perfect backdrop for the podcast. These galleries, which opened in late 2023, span over a century of global conflict, showcasing works by artists, photographers, and filmmakers who have borne witness to war.
Featured Artists and Their Impact:
- Anna Airy: Pioneering depictions of war scenes.
- Steve McQueen: Thought-provoking modern perspectives.
- John Singer Sargent: Iconic portrayals of war’s human toll.
- Paul Nash: Evocative landscapes of conflict.
- Suzanne Plunkett: Powerful photography capturing raw emotions.
- Edward Burra: Art reflecting the surreal aspects of war.
- Olive Edis: Trailblazing war photographer.
Expert Voices Provide Depth and Context
This season brings together leading experts to provide context and answer compelling questions raised by the works on display.
Featured Experts Include:
- Dr. Beryl Pong: Specialist in war and literature.
- Dr. Diya Gupta: Authority on colonial and global perspectives of conflict.
- Dr. Mark Sealy: Expert in photography’s role in documenting struggles.
- Professor Ana Carden-Coyne: Renowned for her insights on war’s cultural impact.
Exploring Conflict Through Artistic Lenses
Eleanor Head, Head of the IWM Institute, expressed her enthusiasm for the new season:
“We are thrilled to launch this series where celebrity guests delve into history’s most complex conflicts while exploring the Blavatnik Art, Film, and Photography Galleries. These encounters with objects, artworks, and archival soundbites deepen our understanding of war and its profound impact on the human condition.”
Release Schedule and Availability
The podcast premieres on Friday, January 3, with episodes released weekly. Kicking off the new year, Conflict of Interest invites listeners to discover how art, film, and photography reveal the enduring nature of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.
Why This Podcast Stands Out
- Unique Format: Combines celebrity perspectives with historical insights.
- Diverse Themes: Appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and general audiences.
- Educational Value: A fresh take on learning about war and conflict through accessible storytelling.
- Visual Integration: Links with IWM’s physical galleries for an immersive experience.
