designwithflair

While Carnival fills the streets outside, the studio calls for a slower, more tactile rhythm. Looking at footage of constructing hinged wooden armatures from a week ago—with a voiceover added today—captures the winding nature of the creative process.

Every piece begins with a million moving parts and competing ideas. Even with a general direction in mind, the materials themselves dictate the pace. Working with power tools, brass hinges, and MDF panels isn't just about structural construction; it’s an exercise in play, patience, and allowing the work to take scenic routes before revealing its final form.

Sometimes taking the scenic route is the best part of the creative journey. 🎨✨

I often find myself stepping away from a main painting to explore a million other things—whether that's visiting exhibitions, experimenting with unexpected materials, or crafting custom elements like handmade steel putty beads and cut hanger structures.

In process art, detour isn't a distraction; it’s an invitation. Taking time out allows you to return to the canvas with completely fresh eyes.

Every trial, detour, and embellishment has wound its way back into this piece. Now, with the final details stitched and placed, it’s almost time to stretch it on canvas bars and let it leave the studio.

Materials & Details:

 Mixed media on canvas

 Handmade steel epoxy beads & wire embellishments

 Hand-stitched texturing

“Doing anything but focusing on the painting is such a good way for me to work, because when I come back to it, I come back with fresh eyes.”

I have been working on and off on this piece for years! Through lockdown...my MFA.

It is aptly titled 'sometimes there is a pause' because it is definitely time for this piece to vacate the studio.

My recent visit to Lagos Island was enlightening. It moves to its own beat.

just my brain resetting....nothing to worry about....learning to flow with it!

For so long...I have struggled with derealisation....it was just something I kept to myself.

It can be tempting to work in isolation....but ....collaborating is such a great learning curve!

Possibly relating to childhood trauma....I first experienced derealisation as a teenager....it has been a constant 'companion' ever since. I used to be petrified whenever I 'glitch'....thought it was a precursor to 'locked-in syndrome' and I wouldn't be able to find 'my way back'. But now I know it's my brain 'resetting' itself....finding ways to alleviate stress....

Preparing for my MA Finals in Fine Art....exploring ideas....

I have a love-hate relationship with commissions. They are fun to take on....a little bit because of the growth potential. However I am an avid 'slow maker'...just love to enjoy the process. Definitely learning about time management through commissions...