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...

I recently visited the Museo Picasso in Barcelona. It was such an experience...a reminder of how not to be too precious when creating...but to have fun playing and experimenting.

Oh my days! What a vibe!

I absolutely loved the RA Summer Exhibition this year...it was so more-ish. Unfortunately I attended on the very last day!

Kicking myself! I could have seen it at least 5 or 6 times. Delighted I went even though it was on the last day....

It's been a bit of a whirlwind....between studies, my day job and 'daughter' duties (been caring for my elderly mum)...I have barely had any time to go to my 'happy place' studio!

Just being in the studio yesterday was so cathartic! It is so nice to catch a breather in the hustle and bustle. Self care is so important!

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.