Interlude

A poll for your thoughts: what would you like to see on The Creative Prescription?

Finished drawing: the lady with a back tattoo - botanical fineliner drawing.

The last Creative Prescription I posted last week marks the conclusion of a series of practical exercises for the time being.

As I mentioned on Notes, these creative exercises were crafted for the wonderful individuals I've had the pleasure of serving through my workshops and coaching. They were designed to tackle collective challenges like imposter syndrome, the inner critic, and perfectionism. I gave wholeheartedly and with honour.

However, in the process of creating these exercises for my Substack space, I've come to the realization that I've been neglecting my own creative practice. Last week, the ever-supportive

Claire Venus

gave me the word 'brave,' which has echoed in my mind these past few days.

I need to be braver in sharing my creative experiences. Not just for myself, but for the creative collective as a whole. As I tirelessly say in my workshops, to be human is to be creative. We need to honour this part of ourselves.

Returning to the Why

On a personal level, writing and creating art have been coping mechanisms for navigating the overwhelming aspects of life—the ups and downs I've grappled with since, well, as long as I can remember.

Engaging in art or practising various crafts over the years has brought solace during very dark and lonely times. Even as a child, I felt different. Instead of lugging around a favourite stuffed animal, my comfort came from my knitting bag! It served as my retreat when things became a bit too much.

Grown-ups around me thought I was being clever and creative. My knitting bag became the antidote to my natural inclination towards being moody, 'over-sensitive,' and sad. You see, from toddlerhood, I had gained the nickname Hoots because I cried all the time—I needed to lose that name as soon as possible! It’s amazing what a bag of knitting can do.

Even now, I carry my sketchbook bag everywhere. Even if I know I won't get to use it when we go out, I leave it in the boot of my car, knowing it's there if I need it. My adult comfort blanket.

Art = Saviour

• My art practice has been my saviour for the four decades I've spent on this planet.

• It's been my creative prescription, guiding me through the turbulent and choppy waters of my mind.

• Quite literally, my art practice has saved my sanity and, yes, my life.

So, dear reader, as I mentioned last week in my note, I want to lay out my intentions for some accountability.

My intention is to share more of my art, my process, and the messy behind-the-scenes of navigating the almost painful calling to be an artist.

As I open myself up to you, I'd love to know what you've always wanted to ask but were afraid to ;)

Let me know what you'd like to see more of in this creative Substack space via this poll or in the comments.

Thanks for the Votes - the poll is now closed.
The results are in, it seems you want:

• New art / work in progress

• Drawing and process tutorials

• My art and wellbeing journal

Thank you for being here. Stay creative.

I also want to acknowledge and send buckets of appreciation to

Amanda Michelle

- our weekly calls have been beautiful reminders of the importance of creative support. Amanda has helped me realise that I can’t keep bullshitting myself and I need to embrace who I really am! Thank you, my friend x