It is possible to let an idea take form in the mind's eye...come to life without the urgency of execution. I am beginning to experience first hand the benefits of letting an idea take form...let it blossom in my head as I enjoy the process of gathering the material I need to execute my idea. I'm learning that pacing myself is part of a very mindful creative process. Allowing an idea to take root and blossom enables focused execution.

Join me in my discovery as I tell you all about my 'slow making' process.

Working to course deadlines can be so overwhelming...I found my most recent course module physically and mentally tasking. I may not have realised how burnt out I was at the time ....going full throttle as adrenaline kicked in.

It took me weeks to recover!

I'm nervous!!!! I get the jitters when I'm working on a project...and a deadline is approaching. Right now...I feel I just maybe spreading myself a bit thin....but really that's just the jitters talking.

I do have a lot on though...print party coming up....need to plan collaboration with two libraries....aaaahhhhh!!!

All the while, preparing for an exhibition next month...trying to keep to script (maquette) but no...I just love experimenting. Happens....the creative process can be so organic...I'm going to try to keep to the 'design script' I have written for myself!

Let me tell you all about it....

When prepping for an exhibition...making a maquette is always my starting point alongside sketches of course! But....it is so easy to get stuck on the maquette making circuit...well for me it is. I need to focus on prepping by creating artwork...rather than making models of the artwork....or do I? Isn't making maquettes at least 80% of the work done....because you have a tested idea of what works and how it would look. I mean it is said that preparation is half the battle won. I really need to be kinder to myself...because I am possibly on the right track....even if I do push myself pretty hard.

I find exhibition prep both exhausting and exhilarating....there is a rush...a buzz and burnout!

Really excited about this new project....a module required as part of my MA Fine Art....'Collaborative Practice'.

I plan to keep you updated on my progress....so stay tuned for more content.

Now let tell you all about my prep....

Are you a songwriter? Or have you ever tried or wanted to write a song? I doff my hat to you if you are a songwriter or an aspiring songwriter.

Such a big topic...I barely did it justice..chatting to a colleague at a lounge in the Tate Modern, because there was so much background noise! Tell the truth...I would chat to him again ....he is so knowledgeable and a true discipline to his craft.

Apologies for the background noise in advance...as you listen to our chat.

As curious as I am about running....I'm not really a runner...at the moment. Sometimes it looks like fun....marathons seem so communal and engaging..bringing people together.

But the idea of pounding gravel is so daunting...to me.

Here I chat with three people at different stages in their running journey and get to find out a bit more about running. Who knows? Maybe one day, I'll be pounding gravel!

Making new resolutions can be life changing...possibly...at the same time resolutions can fuel procrastination. Sounds cliche but it is said if you 'fail to plan; you plan to fail'. Plans are good and some people like 'markers' for achievement. Like to wear the badge of achieving something within a set time.

I feel growth is fluid, yes make plans but possibly find a way to improve on those plans organically. I believe a lot more change is achieved with flexibility rather than rigidity. Never beat yourself up. Even failure has its lessons. Growth begins within and not with 'out'.

Is there an itch to emigrate? Is it a rite of passage? Or is it caused by disillusionment? Being a homebody, as much as I love experiences....I need my creature comforts! My sister emigrated to Nigeria years ago...my brother did as well and now my niece is considering emigration...albeit for a year.

She might absolutely love it! So many before her have thrived....I suppose it's all about the mindset.

Well, the conversation did get heated at times! Brace yourself!

2024 has been an interestingly meandering year...ups...downs....sideways...like any other year really but pretty intense. Or maybe years seem more intense the older we get...hopefully wiser too.

Here's wishing one and all a brilliant 2025!