The figure

RUNNER-UP

With a strength of character that belied her fragile looks, Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun pushed the boundaries of royal portraiture and, after the French Revolution, challenged the loss of female influence via every frill and fold in her work

Muriel Spark’s irrepressible creative drive

There are many reasons that an artist’s ambitions can be thwarted, including the decision to become a teacher. Later this month, an exhibition will shine a light on talent obscured by a career in the classroom

When I arrive at Adele Parks’ home for our cover shoot, she’s already moving furniture. She’s in her jumpsuit and trainers. She’s directing props, adjusting lighting, topping up coffee cups and cracki

Thriller writer Erin Kelly recommends the reads you need when you want to let loose