A Vivid Journey

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[vividlilyart]

Today was a good day! After a full day of planning, emailing and sorting, everyone was out on the river come four thirty for sun downers. Up past the confluence to a little sandy shore. My first time since the hippo incident. Apparently he has a bit of a rep these days! I packed my camera, I wasn’t missing this opportunity! As we made our way up river, the engine cut out several times. The most unnerving time was within a few hundred yards of a hippo, as we were being pulled along rather rapidly with the current straight towards him. He ducked under. I swallowed hard. What were the chances... Fortunately, the engine kicked in just in time. We saw three elephants bathing in the distance, lapping up and lolling in the cooler waters, something so engaging to watch their ears flapping and their trunks flailing around. Always a joy! Looking through the photos, I really do wish I’d been able to go for a 300mm lens! We pulled up on a little island , with a wide sandy shore, fringed at one side with long grasses and reeds. Recent rather large hippo tracks plundered along the shore and signs that elephants had been by recently too. A long shallow pool of several meters separated the middle of the island, it was walkable across. The gins were going down nicely. Plumes of clouds billowing amidst an aqua toned sky, with the sun setting, those silver linings were beginning to glisten. The shadow of rain showed distantly from one cloud. As the sun bowed out, the sky illuminated with a rainbow of pastel hues, deeper, darker, until they merged with the purple haze of the distant mountains and then, night. This is what I’ve missed! This is the Zambia that I love! Since that day and since I am so behind in posting, I’ve been working hard on pulling activities together for the Easter weekend. It allowed me to use a little of that creativity which was no bad thing. Designing masks, and maps for the Easter treasure hunt. It was good fun and even the parents seemed to appreciate the additional entertainment. The Easter bunny even came and apparently went via Shopright. A very kind soul obviously felt I needed more chocolate in my life. I’m not complaining! I’ve ran several times at varying paces. Those that know me best or even those who run regularly will realise the agro of strata missing its auto pause function when photo ops come up! Still, it’s nice not to be too bothered. It’s all good training and sometimes you just have to slow it down to appreciate it. No elephant encounters on the trails yet, but they have been spotted very close by. They have a very loveable reputation, until you get here. You have to respect them and their space. You frighten them with your pandemonium and hysterics, you have to remember how much weight is potentially coming charging towards you. I am more mindful out here about everything. Nature is beautiful, but it also serves itself. I don’t want to be a portion to anything! I was visited earlier today by a lady I’d contacted about catering for the Zambezi shores music festival in September. She asked how long I’d been in Zambia. When I told her two weeks, she laughed and said “Really? You’re already known in Lusaka and making waves. Crikey, in a good way I hope? I was only in Lusaka for 2 hours! Maybe the excess luggage was noted.... 😏 Generally life has been a lot slower. In some ways, I need to create a focus so I don’t just drift. The heat and humidity can make you lethargic, so having even a loose structure outside of the duties can help keep you motivated. People pass through the lodge as tourists or regulars, a few familiar faces have popped up every now and again. Some remember, some don’t...I don’t hold grudges because I can be just as bad. I have my own space to retreat to and that is important. It’s balance. Not quite everything has fallen into place yet, but it’s early days. I’ll know when it has, but at the minute I’m not even sure what it is, that hasn’t. Patience dear, patience! Time will tell and time in Africa is immeasurable anyway! 😉

[vividlilyart]

Who’d have thought I’d be back in Africa this time last year!? It’s been a long time coming, but again it’s happened so fast! And saying that, I haven’t even mentioned the exhibition I had before I left! Im still blown away by how many people came and how many pieces were snatched up! My first ever shot at curating and organising an exhibition…..and in a week! 😱 I’m grateful to all concerned! After a fortnight exploring Uganda and its amazing wildlife, yes I went gorilla trekking 🦍and chimp trekking 🐵; no experience of being flung over the shoulder and disappearing into the bush… so I’m now in Zambia. Life is a whole lot slower. A little too much so sometimes, but hey TIA! I’ve a whole load of art to share to catch you up and hopefully a whole lot of new art on the way! Keep up to date with my adventures when I’m not here, at @lyricalafrica2

[vividlilyart]

7 alternatives for winter art trips. Has winter cut into your creativity? Has the cold taken away your will to get out and about? Do you remember those pleasant and warm, outdoor painting sessions? Your inspiration may be fueled by the colours and feel of the winter, but as the temperature continues to drop, your plans to resume en plein air may have been delayed a little. Such a trifling detail, it shouldn't let it stop you venturing out armed with your best base layer and double quilted duvet jacket, in search of somewhere suitable to kick start your new year sketch book. It may not be an easel and canvas job, but it's sure to add fuel to the fire for when you get back to the studio! So until the sun hits the sky, maybe think about taking up a post at one of these locations, armed with a small supply of drawing pens, watercolours or pastels, you can unleash your creativity and stay toasty! ☕ Coffee shops are great! Take a window seat or back yourself up against a wall for more discreet observing. At least you can satiate that hankering for a chai latte at the same time! 🚂 Train station waiting rooms make can be a hive of activity, with people too busy trying to get to where they're going to notice you squirrelling away. Lots of interesting faces, luggage and trains... challenge yourself, how quick can you get the study down without looking at the paper. Sometimes mere suggestions of figures can look more convincing and have more energy about them than trying too hard to create an elaborate figure quickly. 📚 The library. Perfect for some quiet time and more stillness in a lot of the studies can afford you a little more time to work in details. 🏛 The art gallery or museum. Obvious and perhaps not so. You don't have to go just to look at art. Go and be inspired to create, emulate, even draw inspiration from others who visit. 🚣 Many public parks have cafes and bird hides. And it can be a lovely way to spend a bit of time, observing a view, being more in nature, but staying that little bit warmer! Make sure to take a flask if you opt for the hide ;) 👜 💼Most shopping malls have benches, so if you don't mind people prying on you, take a pew and a bit like the train waiting room, make some fast and furious sketches of passers by. 🚘 And if non of that appeals, why not drive out somewhere. The coast, the countryside, your favourite beauty spot. Your own little mobile studio! Wherever you choose, make sure you're comfortable and not obstructing peoples business. Stay warm and have fun! Do you have a go to room with a view or an alternative creative wintery hide out when the temperature drops?

[vividlilyart]

That lightbulb moment! ….

Some of us may feel as if we’ve been catapulted into the New Year and others, perhaps you’re still sloping across the threshold rather reluctantly.

Things are gonna change this year, things are going to be different. Life is going to be better than ever, I’m going to be happier than ever. I’m going to meet all of my targets, sell more work, get that contract, write that book, get fit… tick off as many as you want by the way! 😏

Yet by mid January or as I hit the wrong key, maybe more appropriately mud January, you start to feel a little stuck. Out of focus, the glimmer of enthusiasm may seem a little oxidised. So what do you do?

A few years ago I read a great book called the artists way by an author called Julia Cameron.

In short, it’s basically a book designed to help you solve your own problems. Whatever you do, whether you think your one of those people who doesn’t have a creative bone in their body. Whether you think stickmen could be your only artistic accomplishment or that writing is for bespectacled intellects only is irrelevant. This book gets you doing it, instead of thinking about doing it. Three pages a morning, write big, write small, doodle, it doesn’t even have to make sense. The first things that come into your head should be what you put down.

The point is, after a while, when you look back, you will likely start to see recurring themes. Whether these are things in your life that need to be addressed or ideas that may lead to ways of approaching your work, relationships, or even creative ideas leading to new works.

The process allows us to be uninhibitedly creative. A child allows their mind to wander, but how often as adults do we allow ourselves this healthy and what can be very productive freedom?

I’ve spoken to several friends of late who have been given art materials for Christmas. They’re entirely new to it mostly, but my one word of advice to them is, before you get too serious and burdened with the dissatisfaction of trying to replicate something, play! Give yourself permission to create, doodle, write, use words as stimulus or feelings. Experiment! See your mood and confidence grow, then see your motivation soar!

Photo credit - James Pond

[vividlilyart]

7 things you should know about an artist

Ever wondered what it’s like to stand in in the shoes of an artist? Do you have creatives down as temperamental loners or even eccentrics that pace the floor of a Garret (I’ve always wanted one…😉) in search of ideas for their next masterpiece?

Given that we’re all individuals here is my light hearted take on a few things you might like to know about an artist and their work. You might identify as an artist, or as an art collector you may wish to peruse…

1. Being an artist is as much a job as any other, we really are just utterly privileged in that most of us suffer sheer joy and excitement in doing it. It’s terrible I know. How on earth could anyone enjoy work? That is unless a piece starts going wrong and then it couldn’t get any worse! 😏🙇🏻‍♀️

2. It’s really hard to paint with frozen fingers! I have Raynauds and some of the studios I’ve worked in have had terrible heating. If the artist suffers, you can imagine what happens if it’s a life drawing class! 3. When you buy a piece of art, you are essentially buying into the artist and acquiring a piece of their soul. Yes, really! Each and every piece is made and signed with blood, life and love.

4. If you love the artist, share the good news! Many artists are not so good at self promotion. If you can elevate them socially, you will - 1) make their day, 2) make them feel appreciated and 3) be sitting on a small fortune if you decide to invest in their art. There’s nothing worse than a sad artist! 😏

5. Does your beloved artist do commissions? Some artists like to solely concentrate on their own work, so it’s good to know how an artist works and what they are open to. If you have your own vision, that you’d love to see on canvas, but can’t quite do it yourself, finding an artist you love and starting a discussion can be the way forward! Generally speaking, we don’t bite! 6. Never ask an artist “what is it?”. This shows a lack of vision and imagination. Either keep your mouth shut, or put your own interpretation forward. The latter is good as it shows the piece is making you think! 😉 see below! Does the art speak to you? Does it make you feel something? Perhaps you should go ahead and buy it, you won’t regret it!

7. Every artist has a different way of working. Some have several! That’s ok! My philosophy is that one of the great joys of art is that it has limitless possibilities that are neither right nor wrong. Why put a ceiling on it or confine yourself to a box?!

It’s all in a days work and sometimes I just wish there were more hours for it. It keeps me healthy and my excitement for it continues to grow with age and experience. I won’t ever dismiss a medium or style, see point 7…

The art world can seem exciting and daunting, exclusive, controversial and a little weird at times, but to be able to create, express and share in such a way is such a valuable thing!

Do you have any thoughts? 💭

[vividlilyart]

Bogged down with low light and shorter days? Me too! It can have a fairly profound effect, but having an activity that gives you room for creativity and expression can really help take the edge off it. It just helps me to refocus the brain more positively! Throw in a bit of exercise and a few well chose essential oils and it kind of eases the burden somewhat. Yes, Inktober pretty much comes at a perfect time of year, though it seemed to come and go in the blink of an eye. It was a test in someways and it can be quite a time commitment, but always rewarding!

I’ve come to love my dip pen and ink and where I may not generally need it when I’m painting a portrait in oils, or a cityscape in acrylic, it can be great for quick sketches and and the marks can have a lovely loose, energetic! scratchy feel to them.

I will be producing some Christmas cards once again, which has become somewhat of a tradition, so do look out for those before the end of the month! Those of you know me will no doubt realise there will be some kind of animal theme and given that there has been a new feline edition to the household, that may give you a clue as of what to expect!

In the meantime, until I release those designs, here are a few drawings from last month!

[vividlilyart]

Seven things to consider when buying art.

Do you feel daunted when you think about buying art? Have you ever looked at a piece of art and wished you owned it? Have you ever thought about approaching an artist with an idea for a piece you could see on your wall?

Stepping outside of the creative process momentarily, I thought it might be helpful to offer you a few tips on things to consider when buying art. Depending upon your take on it, it could be a process steeped in stress which it shouldn’t be. The whole mystery of it might also put you off. It shouldn’t! Art should have you feeling excited from the moment you think about making the purchase, till a few years down the line when it’s hanging on your wall.

I’ve been approached several times by people who are new to buying art. I see from the buyers side, such a purchase, can be a bit daunting and be plagued with ifs, buts and maybes. You may not have the artists neurosis to deal with, but you want to be confident when you part with that hard earned cash of yours. So I’ve decided to provide a few tips to make the whole process a bit easier for you.

So here you are, seven things to start you off, to consider when making an art investment.

Do you like the style of the artist or are you buying into a trend? I guess what I’m trying to say here is, can you see it hanging in your home and being happy looking at it, or is it just a piece of work by someone popular or cutting edge? It could be both, but only you will know the answer.

Where will you hang it? Being an artist, you can visualise the size of a wall that a piece will suit, without looking cramped or at the other end of the scale, lost! Will it fit and will it compliment its surroundings in your home? Think about the light it’s exposed to, too. Not only artificial, but a painting hanging in direct sunlight is going to fade eventually. Equally, damp conditions will deteriorate your pride and joy!

Think about your budget, unless that’s not a concern. Are you dying to own an original, or is a limited edition print more realistic? (See below) Commissions are a great investment, but as with all art, you need to consider all that goes into creating a piece. If at the end of the day, you can’t come to terms with the outlay, perhaps my suggestion below is for you? It will still have great value!

So you love the artist right and no matter what you buy from them, you’re sure it will look amazing! You’re desperate to get an original, but you can’t quite stretch to it just yet. Have you considered whether a limited edition print could be an option? I’ve started working in limited edition hand finished prints, with as few as only ten editions. It’s a great way to get the best of both worlds and something entirely unique.

Did you know that unless the artist gives their written consent, the piece that you purchase is protected by copyright? Out of courtesy, it isn’t the done thing to make copies, however this doesn’t say you can’t take a picture of it to show the world how proud you are of your new artwork!

Good art doesn’t have to come from beyond the grave! If you love the artwork, it shouldn’t matter whether the artist is known or not. There are infinite amounts of talented people out there to discover in all genres of art. Go out there, take time to discover them! Anyway, you never know, today’s unknown could be tomorrow’s big news!

Be brave! Have a chat with the artist! I always think it’s nice getting to know someone a bit better and getting to know the ideas and inspirations behind the work. Most artists have a mailing list, or a newsletter/blog, but outside of that, questions are allowed ;) It’s healthy to have that two way interaction and in doing so you can keep up to date with latest collections, events and news about the artist.

Are you thinking about investing in some art? What information would you find helpful?

[vividlilyart]

The year is going so fast and don’t you know it, we’re back in October, which can only mean one thing....inktober! Yes, it barely seems like five minutes ago since I was mopping up ink spillages from every surface I worked on. It’s also world mental health day today, which kind of ties in with art and creativity. Why? Because it’s a form of expression and anything that allows us to diffuse in such a positive way, is a very good thing! Some use writing, some use exercise, some use art, cooking.....whatever it is that keeps you healthy keep doing it. Creating and communicating, communicating and creating, keep doing it! If you’re going through something less than pleasant right now, remember it doesn’t define you! Mental health problems and the stigmas that have been attached, can hammer your confidence. They can have you believe that there is no hope, that you aren’t a complete person, even that you have no place in the world at worst. It isn’t true. You are a hundred times better than the dark times will have you believe! Keep going and find what makes you tick! Live it, love it and enjoy it! So, Inktober can induce a bit of pressure in the need to keep up. I’m committing as much as I can, but if I fall behind, I’ll catch up whenever I can. Some drawings maybe more intricate and detailed than others depending up what is going on that day. Weekends may be spent bingeing, or I may get on with the portraits I have on the go. I’ll save those for another post! I’m paddling like fury, in an attempt to keep on top of this list of to dos, the have tos, want tos and it’s healthy tos. Anyway, I’ll ease you in gently with Day 1 of Inktober, derived from the prompt ‘Poison’!....

[vividlilyart]

Are you ready for a new year and a new stArt?

It’s been quite a year, one that has seen me out of the starting blocks from 0 to seemingly 100mph, to virtually grinding to a halt under buildup of stuff at times. It has left me truly exhausted, but with a stronger resolve than ever to keep going and to do what I like be doing most. I want next year to be a year as free as possible of nonsense, unhealthy relationships and friendships and bad habits. It’s going to be hard going for a while, I accept, just because of the darker days, but I’m not waiting around for those to end. The creativity and the right mindset has to start now.

Artistically what will next year bring? Whoever knows what is around the corner really, but I know I have aims! I’d like to develop my practice, committing more time to doing, than talking about it. This may take the form of applying for an artist in residence or it may be as simple as allocating stricter time blocks, dedicated solely to painting and drawing. I need to develop a business plan in line with this, if I can fund further creativity though previous creation, then this is indeed a way forward. I’m currently working with a friend and associate on this, it’s exciting, but also daunting the amount of boxes that need to be ticked! I’d like to expand and develop the blood and Lilies collection. There was something really enjoyable, but very meaningful throughout the process of creating it and it would be interesting to explore it further.

I feel I need to explore the medium of oils further too. My patience with drying times may need to be tested, but I’ve been curious, but scared about this medium for too long now, I just need to get on and do it! I’ve been taking advantage of sale prices, so I have plenty of Canvas and brushes that are ready to be exploited.

I have had a couple of small break during the year, culminating in a fun day at Euro Disney, however I think I am in need of something a little more subdued. How that trip will take place, who knows, it may well turn into another working one!

The year in a nutshell has taken me a much more diverse route with the Blood and Lilies, a conceptual collection about relationships and the bonds we form with others on many levels. Hidden amongst that was the ‘Cygnus and Grace’ illustrations which I plan to return to, right through to the ‘Metropolis Blues’ collection. This series depicted cities, evoking tales of emotion on a conscious and unconscious level; dipping in and out of the lives of the inhabitants. The year ended on a much more illustrative note with ‘Inktober’. An ink drawing a day for a month, this allowed me the indulgence of a dip pen and a bottle of ink. It got messy, it stained muchly, but it was fun and after a bit of a hiatus, it sharpened up my skills and indeed it gave me a bit of focus and discipline. I even released a selection of seasonal cards and a small run limited edition triptych, born of Inktober.

As I sit here in my comfy chair writing, I am faced with a lot of questions and decisions about next year. Exciting and scary, but ultimately I’m more than ready to move forward. There was a lot of change involved in the year just gone and although we are all constantly evolving with the world around us, some of it was rather uncomfortable to go through our a personal level as well as the more universal issues that affecting us all as we speak.

I’m sharing selection of my 2017 moments here and wishing you all the courage to seek out what will truly lead you to a happy and fulfilling future. I hope you are blessed with a fresh blank canvas to create of live what you most desire.

I’m off to rest now, after a rather unexpected long run this morning. By long, I mean entirely beyond what I thought I was capable of, I may be asleep come new year…..

Have a good one! 😘🥂

[vividlilyart]

Are you ready for a new year and a new stArt? It’s been quite a year, one that has seen me out of the starting blocks from 0 to seemingly 100mph, to virtually grinding to a halt under buildup of stuff at times. It has left me truly exhausted, but with a stronger resolve than ever to keep going and to do what I like be doing most. I want next year to be a year as free as possible of nonsense, unhealthy relationships and friendships and bad habits. It’s going to be hard going for a while, I accept, just because of the darker days, but I’m not waiting around for those to end. The creativity and the right mindset has to start now. Artistically what will next year bring? Whoever knows what is around the corner really, but I know I have aims! I’d like to develop my practice, committing more time to doing, than talking about it. This may take the form of applying for an artist in residence or it may be as simple as allocating stricter time blocks, dedicated solely to painting and drawing. I need to develop a business plan in line with this, if I can fund further creativity though previous creation, then this is indeed a way forward. I’m currently working with a friend and associate on this, it’s exciting, but also daunting the amount of boxes that need to be ticked! I’d like to expand and develop the blood and Lilies collection. There was something really enjoyable, but very meaningful throughout the process of creating it and it would be interesting to explore it further. I feel I need to explore the medium of oils further too. My patience with drying times may need to be tested, but I’ve been curious, but scared about this medium for too long now, I just need to get on and do it! I’ve been taking advantage of sale prices, so I have plenty of Canvas and brushes that are ready to be exploited. I have had a couple of small break during the year, culminating in a fun day at Euro Disney, however I think I am in need of something a little more subdued. How that trip will take place, who knows, it may well turn into another working one! The year in a nutshell has taken me a much more diverse route with the Blood and Lilies, a conceptual collection about relationships and the bonds we form with others on many levels. Hidden amongst that was the ‘Cygnus and Grace’ illustrations which I plan to return to, right through to the ‘Metropolis Blues’ collection. This series depicted cities, evoking tales of emotion on a conscious and unconscious level; dipping in and out of the lives of the inhabitants. The year ended on a much more illustrative note with ‘Inktober’. An ink drawing a day for a month, this allowed me the indulgence of a dip pen and a bottle of ink. It got messy, it stained muchly, but it was fun and after a bit of a hiatus, it sharpened up my skills and indeed it gave me a bit of focus and discipline. I even released a selection of seasonal cards and a small run limited edition triptych, born of Inktober. As I sit here in my comfy chair writing, I am faced with a lot of questions and decisions about next year. Exciting and scary, but ultimately I’m more than ready to move forward. There was a lot of change involved in the year just gone and although we are all constantly evolving with the world around us, some of it was rather uncomfortable to go through our a personal level as well as the more universal issues that affecting us all as we speak. I’m sharing selection of my 2017 moments here and wishing you all the courage to seek out what will truly lead you to a happy and fulfilling future. I hope you are blessed with a fresh blank canvas to create of live what you most desire. I’m off to rest now, after a rather unexpected long run this morning. By long, I mean entirely beyond what I thought I was capable of, I may be asleep come new year..... Have a good one! 😘🥂

[vividlilyart]

If the clock could be turned back…

I bet I was the last person you expected to hear from after the latest hiatus! May was it, the last time I posted? Where do I begin after such a gaping absence, creatively as much as literally. When life gives you lemons, chew em up and swallow em down like you’d hardly noticed. Keep going till you’ve swallowed so many, the acid feels like it’s corroding you from the inside out, till you regurgitate every last citrus cell, and then throw it at a canvas.

It can be like that. But it can also leave you redundant, searching every dark corner and crevice of your being for a spark of inspiration; the tiniest bit of skill and then, just when you thought you’d found some, it disappears, like an apparition passing through an atmosphere. You start to wonder whether it was ever actually there to start with.

At the beach, in the dene, out in the countryside is where it’s been at with me, oddly without the bike though. It’s what I need to refocus, just quiet time without fuss or drama. I say that as I’m still recovering from a bike crash which left me concussed and suffering whiplash…

So onwards with the positives….for now artistically, I have two commissions. One underway and one to be started. I’ve been approached by a gallery in Barcelona ..ooh business trip!! And also a few north east venues have expressed interest in exhibiting my work, confirmed wall space just this morning in fact! I’ve been working on my website in fits and starts, some days I love it, other days I’m thinking, why on earth would people want to look at this &@£!?

After treating myself to a surgical scalpel and six new cans of spray paint, (I know… I live life on the very edge), I’ve just begun another project. Well kinda play time, trying to see if I can initiate anything, using hand drawn and cut stencils. My latest play with the stencils has shown me where they need work. They’re fairly intricate, with a smattering of lines suggesting the forms and shadows, it’s like working with negative spaces. The thickness of the stencil is also proving to be fairly important. I actually think my first attempt was more successful and in particular, the effects of the paint on the stencil proved to be unintentionally pleasing; to me anyway.

The work has been based on an image of my niece and obviously the trademark Lilies. It’s been interesting and sure, there is more experimentation to come. I’m not Banksy and it’s unlikely that you’ll find me hanging over the edge of a bridge, wearing a hoodie and wielding a couple of spray cans.

That aside, I believe returning to the fundamentals of drawing is always good practice and in this I have returned to my initial inspiration - animals. It’s an attempt to instigate something creative, my theory, I may not be painting, but at least I’m being creative. I have so many reference pictures from various trips, I didn’t have to look too far. So I’m working my way through the species, looking at getting form and proportion right; concentrating on their various postures, traits and characteristics. It’s time that’s never wasted.

Still recovering from the news of Tom Petty, I have a long term affection for this man, being raised on his music, The Travelling wilburys, and the individuals careers of those who he collaborated with. That music was one of the few connections I shared with my dad. Rolling along on a Sunday afternoon in an old purple Ford Cortina, with the music cutting through my dads smoke. I still remember furiously downloading a set list of the Travelling Wilburys, as a surprise for his 50th Birthday party. More was the surprise, that at the time he didn’t seem to remember that… He was an artist I vowed I would get to see live. I’ll kick myself forever for being talked out of going to see him in Hyde Park back in July. Shoulda, coulda, woulda found a way…

My thoughts also naturally pour out to all the victims of the latest attacks. No doubt one of many, but one that has made the news. It’s a given and although I will not go into analytical mode, or dedicate huge paragraphs to it, I am no less sincere in my thoughts, horrified or saddened by events.

If the clock could be turned back….

[vividlilyart]

I’ve been fairly busy of late. Always good to feel that you’re being productive, that is until this week. Clinics have quietened a little, giving me a bit of time for reflection and much needed hours of rest, or active rest as I put it. There’s always things to be done, however some are less taxing than others.  Like writing and painting, it brings so much joy, but it has taken quite a back seat over the last few months. In particular my blog has become more and more sporadic. Sure I’ve scrawled the odd poetic verse down, but as for writing anything substantial, it just hasn’t happened. Coming from such intensity, to relative calm can be like someone slamming on the brakes for an emergency stop. You can end up over shooting, a little dazed and wondering what the hell happened. I’m thinking perhaps creatively, that has created some kind of confused vortex in my head, stunting my output a little. I guess patience is key at times like these.

And then sometimes you become distracted by the wrong things and lose a part of yourself. That little flame that burns inside, isn’t fed well enough and starts to struggle. I have a very rich and fulfilling life in many ways. I have a good family, some amazing and inspirational friends,  a rewarding if tiring (at times) job and I’ve managed to fill my life with things that I love. My gratitude goes out to all of that for keeping me going.

I’ve been lucky enough to attend a few rather awesome events lately. One being the London Astrobeat Arkestra, performing Talking Heads. A rather warm evening at Wylam with a lot of happy people, drinking good beer and dancing lots. Dancing, always good for the soul!

The other memorable performance was by the National Theatres production of ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’. I feel I should have read the book, but sometimes that’s the wrong way around to do it. 

A brief synopsis and potential “spoiler alert”… 

It’s told from the perspective of a 15 year old boy who suffers from a condition on the autistic spectrum, I’d also speculate that he potentially suffers from epilepsy as these conditions can often go hand in hand. It tells a story through his eyes, his world which is very much a reality, as we all have our own realities. It starts with the discovery of a dog that has been murdered with a pitch fork and he makes it his “project” to find out who the murderer actually is. His parents do the best to cope with the boys disorder, however amidst the difficulties, his mother grows close to a neighbour and they depart for a life together in London. Leaving the father, and wife’s neighbour to pick up the pieces, the boy remains unaware of circumstances and is told that his mother was taken into hospital after having a heart attack and died. This is accepted until the boy finds out via hidden letters that his mum has been writing letters to him, which have been hidden, alongside the story he was writing about his life and investigations into the murdered dog which his father confiscated. He runs away to London to find his mum and, well I’ll not fill you in on all of the story as I’m mainly concerned about the theatrical portrayal of it and how it was executed. The lighting, the gobos (films put over the lights to create effects), the use of numbers and words. Reference to Eisenstein theory of relativity on space and time, prime numbers and the speed and manor at which they were projected onto the stage. The portrayal of how one mind can work within a world, but see things and deal with mundane everyday situations, so completely differently.

The use of physical theatre and the interaction between characters was quite phenomenal. There were moments that choked you and made you teary eyed and moments that made you laugh out loud, engaging and soulful. I left my worries about the pet rat bouncing around a cage as the boy ran around the set, when I realised they’d done a switch. Nice touch with the puppy too, you might have known that was going to tug at the heartstrings.

It took me back to a book I read several years ago called, 'Shock of the Fall’, by Nathan Filer. That too had a storyline of a young lead character and his family dealing with mental health issues and disability. Highly recommended if you’re short on something to read. Anyway, big thumbs up to the National Theatre who did a sterling job on this production!

I’ve pulled together a whole summer of fun over the past few weeks and the weather has even warmed up. I’m all about the outdoors at heart and sun always provides added enjoyment, not to mention much needed vitamin D; which I could have cried for a couple of months ago. Long may it continue over the festival period is all I can say. You’ll find me and Boo at the beach, ankle deep in the sea and clutching a little blue plastic bucket and spade at every given opportunity…

Next topic, the election. It’s over, phew! No matter how you voted, hopefully things will improve for the greater good of us all....eventually. Things take time I guess. After all of the anxiety, worry and even partying into the small hours that I heard about, hopefully we can all get some sleep tonight! (You can see I’m a little slow in posting this one…)

Looking at recent events in London and Manchester, more tragic news, circumstances which to anyone with any decency are baffling. These acts solve nothing, these people want to solve nothing. It is simply and act of appearing in control seemingly. See what we can do. To cause terror amongst the innocent, to take away life. We’re all born innocent, we may or may not be brought up in a religious setting. Introduce extremist politics and a need to be right to this, you have problems. I’m not sure that religion is the problem per se. I have known some of the most humble and generous people in various religions, I’ve also heard of some of the worst offenders sitting claiming their god is all. Religion doesn’t make you good or bad and socially speaking we all know innately what is good and bad. There are few ways out of this. I’m a huge believer that we are all one and the same, no matter who we choose to worship or not. You live, you learn and in that you know that such heinous acts instigate nothing but hate, rebellion and divisiveness. And if that is the intention, people will never ever lead a truly peaceful whole life. People need people, need love, we need the earth and all that it comes with; common sense really. I guess one day the earth will kick us all off, but in the universes greater powers, that’s for it to decide as and when. In the meantime I’d like to send a lot of love out there to anyone who needs it. I open my heart to anyone who feels alone, unsure or isolated. Whether it works on a collective level or anything else, it’s healthier than building up and spewing out negative energy. Acknowledge the bad yes, it is only human after all, but hopefully one day, one will cancel out the other.

[vividlilyart]

Treat myself Sunday... I'm having a day off pretty much everything today. I'm tired. For weeks I've rolled from one activity, event or drama to the next without time out. I always realise why I keep this momentum come rest days though, as when I stop for a day, I go all lame. Floppy, drowsy, lethargic, possibly a little pathetic lol. I've had a walk and a mooch around the quayside market, a snooze, a coffee. Sitting here writing is all I can do to stay awake at the moment. I ended up perusing a local second hand bookshop before I made my way home. I do love books, slightly too much sometimes if that's possible. Anyway, I picked up this wonderful old book from 1943 for the bargain price of £2.99! Less than a trip to the Blacksmiths... ;) NE cyclist in joke there... Slightly battered and obviously well read, I can't wait to have my turn! It always does to return to the great masters for technique, problem solving, inspiration and of course developing ones own practice. Needless to say, I'm rather delighted with my bargain find, oh and my discipline of not having left with half of the shop. 😏

[vividlilyart]

Transience in Bloom.

What an amazing day. Nothing but sunshine and blue skies, albeit I’ve only seen a fraction of it due to being in work till late, but still I had a gap in the afternoon to walk Boo up to the local playing field and bask in the heat for a wee while.

A late finish again leaves me with a dampened inclination & energy left to paint. I have An abundance of ideas but time is fairly limited at home where I have access to all of my stuff. By stuff I mean the vast collection of tubes and cans, brushes and pencils, canvases and mess. Yes, i live in it, around it, under it, quite literally eat sleep and breathe it. The phrase organised chaos applies!

Still, when I managed to secure some free time on Monday, when it was notably warm, I set up in the back yard. Actually it was notably muggy, with a few threatening clouds and, well I should have known better. I didn’t have a clue what I was going to do, so I relocated a large selection of acrylics, brushes, paint pens and spray cans, plus my canvas. My iPad provided the soundtrack. Needless to say, when the heavens finally gave way, I felt like the leaning tower of Pisa, as my tower of equipment swayed with every step and every stair as I scurried back inside. That never quit thing, obviously applies to being driven in by the first few spots of rain too!

It was once suggested that I stop creating for a while and concentrate on other matters. Stopping creating is never a deliberate action, I will never ever consciously stop creating as long as I have the energy and the drive. I will never stop working to improve upon weaknesses, I will never stop caring. And I will never stop moving forwards, even if that has to include some kind of cha cha manoeuvre. This is me, the paint, the words, the idiosyncrasies, the love, the energy, this is me. It is an integrity that will never be crushed or compromised thank heavens and thank heavens for the love that is reciprocated. In transience we love, we learn, we grow and hopefully we all will take flight with our own potentials.

I feel an acknowledgement of recent events is appropriate. In sending as much love and positive thoughts out there to everyone who was affected and continues to be. Tragic, such a wasteful loss and in context, in a venue which is meant to bring people together in such a positive way. Events were dire and unacceptable, but hate fuels hate. It leads to destruction. There is little point in hating, there are no longterm gains really and we’re all one and the same when it comes to what we’re born with.

And on that note, here is me. My colours, free, made with love and in the sunshine. Photographing this one outside has really brought out the colours, inside it takes on a much more subtle, fairly dark appearance which I quite like!

Boo acted as artists assistant. A few initial teething problems such as, being scared of my latest purchase (a large hog hair paintbrush) had to be overcome. Mere trivialities to what could be a whole new blooming career…

Anyway, I digress….

Transience in Bloom.

Medium - acrylics mix

Music - Foo Fighters 😎

[vividlilyart]

Just a tease until I can get my ass in gear and write something a little more substantial….

A peep at a more impromptu piece of work. Another dark background, but I love the contrasts you can create with really vivid colour.

Unnamed as of yet, not attached to any collection. Just a rather nice, see where the brush takes me session, sat outside. Just made it in before the rain hit hard!

Oh to do this full time!!

[vividlilyart]

Busy, really? Well in short, yes. Doing all sorts. There are a few things that need planning professionally, providing focus and clarity; which will hopefully pull my work forward in more ways than one.

Exciting, but tiring and still a little overwhelming at times if I’m honest! I have a lot of ideas to work with (sometimes too many) and it’s just trying to figure out how I can make them happen realistically. Once again my blogging has slipped, not that I haven’t been producing anything, it’s more the clarity of thought that I’ve been missing at the end of the day, in order to write anything that makes any sense 😋.

I’m trying to stay on top of my personal wellness. Eating nutritious food, getting out in the sunlight. I’m back running (in moderation) which is great and I’m starting to do more yoga again, which is so good for strengthening and balancing, both physically and emotionally.

So what has come out of the last month? Where do I start… There are a couple of creative collaborations that I’m in talks about, but I’ll not divulge too much until they’re confirmed. One could lead to something on a much grander scale and be a very positive thing for our work in the future.

I’m looking at another project that will help to fund some further work. I’m also working towards getting involved with the north east art markets and that’s besides a few other potential chances to exhibit at various events; producing more work and working on commissions. Oh and that’s totally aside from running my practice, working at another clinic and coming up with a marketing plan for another project abroad….

My signature collection, ‘Blood and Lilies’ has grown considerably since January. I sat down over Easter to extend that even further and instead another collection evolved, which I’ve named ‘Metropolis Blues’.

That’s what I really love about my art, it can take me anywhere at any given time, with any given emotion or inspiration. Invariably fairly spontaneously! I have to admit, I’ve been toying with the idea of throwing some day glow paint at Metropolis. It still may happen!

On another note, I’ve been working on a sequel to ‘Time and Time Again’. It’s been a long time coming, I’ll save that for another day though, as I’m not entirely convinced it’s finished.

Anyway, for now, here is one of my new pieces-

Acrylic mix on canvas.

'Black Rain Blue’

As sky’s darken overhead, clouds finally unburden their load. Energy thrives, bars beaten out on rooftops. The city sleeps and the streets surrender to the rain.

[vividlilyart]

The self-portrait challenge…

I set myself a challenge last week, in the spontaneous way I tend to. Never particularly well thought out, but usually attached to some form of self or skill improvement. Drinking less coffee, running more, working on weaknesses such as perspective, or even doing business related social media everyday.

This time, for whatever reason I decided my skills in portraiture needed to be honed. “Why don’t you….do a self portrait everyday?” I asked myself. And so it began. Dedicating between 10 minutes to an hour per day on staring in the mirror, trying to capture a likeness. Yeuch! It doesn’t particularly do it for me, but I have to say, anything that helps to improve ones skills is good right!? So, I’m about five days in, well, I have five days worth of portraits. Some more scribbles, varying in looseness and detail. The aim is to get it down on paper without looking too much at the paper, until I really need to.

I’m not always in the mood and it’s not something I particularly relish doing in company either, so I’ve already missed a few days here and there (maybe it was slightly ambitious).

Anyway, here is today’s, looking non too amused. Not perfect and looking a little more like a caricature really, but perhaps not so bad in the time allowed.