'Talk Art' podcast hosts land deal with Ilex Press

Ilex Press, an imprint of the Octopus Publishing Group, has acquired Talk Art: Everything You Wanted to Know About Contemporary Art but Were Afraid to Ask by actor Russell Tovey and gallerist Robert Diament.

Ella Parsons, Octopus editor, acquired world rights in all languages from Paul Stevens at Independent Talent. The book will be published on 6th May 2021.

Tovey and Diament co-host the "Talk Art" podcast, where they interview artists, musicians, writers, actors and gallerists. 

Talk Art will be a "visually stimulating and accessible celebration of contemporary art" and will be a guidebook to navigating and engaging with the art world. 

Parsons commented: "Having been a fan of the 'Talk Art' podcast from the very beginning, it’s hugely exciting to be publishing Russell and Robert’s first book. Their enthusiasm for art is truly infectious, and it has been a joy to work with them on such a brilliant, joyful title."

The authors said: "We are both so incredibly proud and excited for you all to see this amazing book we have created. It pays tribute to all of the unbelievably inspiring artist heroes we look up to and admire as well as aiming to introduce you to some of the greatest new voices in art and culture right now. It is a handbook sharing works we are passionate about and will hopefully encourage you to start your own art journey too. 

"We have collaborated with some truly talented individuals and this project is definitely a reflection of the ethos that 'Talk Art' originally set out to achieve—making art accessible for everyone. 'Talk Art' has become such a huge part of our lives and we are both so overjoyed with the continued support and love we have received over the years. Thank you to all of you who follow, subscribe and listen to our show. 

"We would also like to say the biggest thank you to every contributor who has made this book possible, it is hugely appreciated. We hope you have as much fun reading it as we did creating it."

Tovey is an actor who has most recently appeared in BBC's "Years and Years", HBO’s "Looking" and ITV’s "The Sister" as well as films "The Good Liar" and "The History Boys". Diament is director of the Carl Freedman Gallery and Counter Editions.