Physical space and connection with your art
With everything that has happened this year it feels a little strange to still be thinking about covid and the impact it had (and still has even now) on our lives.
There were so many losses on so many levels. There was also a movement where people developed a greater appreciation of their freedom and valued those moments where they could actually get out.
I saw an increase in people looking for an outlet to express their emotions creatively. For some that was taking up an online class, for others, it was buying an art journal to help them on their journey.
As the restrictions eased, I once again introduced my in-person workshops. The positivity, support and encouragement that fills the room is a beautiful thing. I know that I enjoy and embrace the energy that comes when you have a group of creative souls together in a room, but I was unsure whether people would want to come back into the studio and mix once again.
Mixed Media Art in Norway
This month I travelled to the beautiful Son in Norway for my Book of Flow workshop. This particular workshop is all about focussing on our own voice, letting go of self-criticism, and channelling our inspiration and creativity to reflect our true souls. The artists that joined me in the workshop were incredible and, as I reflect on the workshops I have done, I realise how important the physical space and connection to others can be, not just for the students but also for me. Below is just one of the feedback comments from students that attend the workshops.
"I have never been so connected with my work. Thank you Jenny. You have taught me something and I don't even know what it is, well it's connection. It's connection with my art place on a deeper level.”
Unlocking your creativity
"There’s no such thing as creative people and non-creative people. There are only people who use their creativity and people who don’t. Unused creativity isn't benign. It lives within us until it’s expressed, neglected to death, or suffocated by resentment and fear."
This is one of my favourite quotes from the incredible Brené Brown. I like to picture this as a well of inspiration and creativity that sits within us all. When you unlock the well a state of flow occurs. Flow is the mental state in which a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energised focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity.
Of course, there are likely to be obstacles that seek to stop that flow – our own self-doubt and self-critique are often the biggest boulders in that stream of flow. I know this from personal experience. The difference now is that I have developed techniques to help me overcome those barriers and lock into my flow – this is where I love to help other creatives and encourage them to drive through the “imperfections” in their art and create from the soul.
Mixed Media Art Workshops
In my workshops, we will work together to unlock your well and discover and develop your flow. We do this by letting go of our inner critique and working through a process of steps that helps us let go and be brave! We will focus on enjoying the process, finding different ways to feel freer in the moment and learning not to get too attached to what we create.
You will work alongside me and a supportive group of like-minded people who want to find freedom in their creative process. You can be a beginner or an experienced artist. These workshops are for everyone!
Upcoming workshops and retreats
2023
14-15 October, Find Your Flow, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
21-22 October, Find Your Flow, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
27-29 October, Express Your Voice, San Diego, California, USA