Creating a Garden Is Like Creating a Painting
Gardening Is Like Painting, The Spade Is My Brush, The Flowers Are My Paint and The Ground Is My Canvas
They say gardening is great for mental health, and it definitely is. It has helped me to pick myself up, dust myself off and re-evaluate what is important in life.
Art, painting wise, has been a bit of a barren few months where I seem to have lost my way, maybe because I found myself in a situation that was unsustainable. The decision to put my brush down for a few months has actually helped me to re-evaluate not only what is important in my life, but also the direction I wish to go, and how I measure things in the future. Sometimes lessons get learnt the hard way, and from people you least expect.
Our garden was a building site for four years and this summer we have finally been able to transform it. Working with my husband Brian, planning where paths shall lead, what plants to grow to encourage nature, and the type of wild life pond to have has been both fun and incredibly satisfying. In a few years the bushes will grow, the plants will establish and the seasons will become a symphony of changing colours. My very short walk to the studio will be an inspiration in itself.
I have decided to take the pressure off where I expect myself to continually “perform” to fit in. It’s impossible for a start, both physically and mentally, and when I choose to ignore this, I’m left feeling that I can’t measure up. So, I’m getting off the roundabout before I get spun off. In the past, I have chosen not to speak much of how M.E./chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and related other issues affect me. My down or “non” days go left unmentioned or covered up, and my public “mask” is often a far cry from reality. I want to enjoy and share my life with the people that matter to me, and who care in return.
There will always be a focus on creativity, because it is part of who I am, but it will be for the joy of creating and the fun of experimenting, be it with paint, print, clay, fabric, words or garden flowers. Naturally, I will continue my project of discovery with the microscope, simply because the subject fascinates and inspires me with yet more creative ideas. Also, working with other likeminded artists, in sharing ideas, tips and techniques is always a pleasure. It’s a real bonus to be able to bounce ideas and enthusiasm in a subject you love with supportive people.
My work will continue to be available for sale and I will add new work as and when it is ready. Oil paintings for example can take months to complete, and dry. Commissions too are an enjoyable challenge. It is always a delight when someone wishes to purchase from me, simply because they like it enough to want it in their home or give it as a gift. I’m not seeking to be the latest art celebrity, I simply want to create and share. If you like my style and it suits your home, that’s wonderful! …… and I’m more than happy to do business with a personal touch.
I am simply stepping back a little to follow my path at my own speed.
