Front Row

William Feaver discusses the first part of his comprehensive biography of the great British figurative painter Lucian Freud, who died in 2011. Feaver first got to know the mercurial artist in 1973 and had regular conversations and meetings with him over the decades. The former Observer art critic's two detailed biographies – Youth and Fame - are the result of 20 years’ work.Earlier today the shortlist for the 2019 Booker Prize for Fiction was announced. Critics Arifa Akbar and Toby Lichtig give their verdict on the chosen few.Arts Council England recently published a report about if and how the arts and cultural offer within a place can attract and retain individuals and businesses and help to shape its identity. We speak to Laura Dyer, Deputy Chief Executive, Places & Engagement at Arts Council England about what the arts actually contribute to a place. Presenter: John Wilson Producer: Oliver Jones