Shanti Bell, an up-and-coming London-based multidisciplinary artist, recently invited audiences to her solo exhibition, The Room That Shared, at a pop-up hosted by nomadic art platform MaMa in early July. The showcase featured large sculptures delving into the complexities of family dynamics. Informed by her many interviews with subjects on the raw and honest aspects of family life, the resulting tactile representations of these relationships offered visitors a unique space for reflection and interaction, with sculptures made to be moved through and experienced, rather than simply viewed.
Bell’s career began in fashion, where she studied Fashion Print at London’s Central Saint Martins (CSM). She originally aspired to be a menswear designer but Bell soon realised that the relentless production cycle didn’t align with her creative pace. “I just couldn’t see a solid reason to create more clothes,” she says.
Bell’s design background is evident in her artwork, particularly when it comes to her appreciation for movement and form. During her MA at the Royal College of Art (RCA), she explored how to separate form from the body, allowing it to exist independently. Over time, her practice evolved into creating wearable and interactive sculptures for both the body and the audience. Bell’s work is concept-driven, whether she is making films or creating home-like gallery spaces, consistently pushing the boundaries of multidisciplinary art.
Service95 sat down with the artist to talk through the importance of giving yourself grace, her perfect soundtrack for studio days and why she’ll always make time fora nap.
My Working Day... Every day varies. As a self-led artist, I make sure to start my day at a decent time, though I’m not a morning person. If I’m making wearable sculptures, I might work later in the evening. But when building larger sculptures, I start earlier to safely operate power machines. I usually head to the workshop, have breakfast there, and work until I’m done. Some days, if things aren’t going well, I leave early and take a walk to process.
My Work Space... I’m lucky enough to work in two spaces. One is a beautiful wood workshop in east London, curated over 50 years, with every tool imaginable. The other is my personal studio in south London, where I’ve created a comfortable space, including a sofa for naps – I am a lover of naps! I like having music in the background and a window to look out at the sky.
My Working Soundtrack... Recently, I’ve been listening to an artist called Pip Millett. Spotify helps by creating a radio based on what I’ve listened to. I also enjoy crime fiction audiobooks and sometimes Kendrick Lamar for a pick-me-up. The type of sound I need depends on my mood and the work I’m doing.
My Most Recent Show... It’s about making the gallery feel like home, where everyone feels connected, even as strangers. I’ve explored how to capture the bond between family members through sculpture, making the space interactive so people can sit and be part of the pieces. This show allows the gallery to become a home for everyone who visits.
How My Life Influences My Work... Initially, I thought my work was separate from myself, but therapy helped me realise that I’m processing parts of myself through my art. This connection has made my work more resonant for both me and my audience. It’s a continuous process of exploring relationships and interactions that have shaped me.
My Creative Process... Is surreal. When I first imagine a project, it looks completely different to the end. I keep the initial idea loose to stay excited and open to changes. The process involves letting the project grow organically and being surprised by what develops.
On Creative Slumps... I give myself grace on unproductive days and try to do at least one hour of work if I’m struggling. Naps and activities like trips to the lido help too. I enjoy separating from work by taking the train or bus home, listening to music, and not thinking about the day’s work.
On Finding Inspiration... I get inspiration from how artists present their work rather than what their work looks like. I visited galleries such as the White Cube and The Saatchi Gallery to see how objects interact with space. Artists such as Richard Serra inspire me in terms of scale and spatial interaction.
The Best Career Advice I’ve Ever Received... My tutors at CSM and RCA advised me to push an idea as far as it will go, but not to do something for the sake of it. This balance between thinking big and being purposeful is crucial.
My Advice For Young Artists... Don’t be afraid, I always give it my all, despite not having a lot of money. Don’t let money be a barrier. Apply for grants and be open to having multiple jobs. I’ve worked in a coffee shop for ages and it fuels my practice. Interacting with people gives me a fresh perspective. I’ve curated a balanced lifestyle where I can be creative, spend time with friends and family, and maintain a healthy life. You don’t have to sacrifice everything for your practice. Balance is key. That’s my advice: ensure you have a mix of those elements in place.
