I have always been at my happiest when engaging in a creative activity, whether it’s drawing, sewing, journalling or something else. The act of focussing on something I enjoy helps me to process my feelings, take a break from the jobs list and have some time just for me.

While it’s lovely to finish the creative task with a finished piece of something beautiful, I have learned in recent years that enjoying the process is even more important. If I dwell on the getting it finished too much it becomes more like a job, which is often what I need a break from in the first place.

What is Creativity?

The OED define creativity as:

“the use of imagination or original ideas to create something; inventiveness.”

This imagination needs to be nurtured by taking inspiration from the world around us.

Why be creative?

“Creative activities have been proven to boost your mental health and wellbeing.

By exploring the arts, whether that be taking part in, watching or experiencing, you can become more aware of your own feelings, learn from others and make positive changes in your life.” WestSpace.org

Maya Angelou said

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”

I couldn’t agree more. Creativity is a muscle that you stretch and train. You’re not born with it - you develop it. Most of the adults that I come across in my workshops say that they can’t draw or that they aren’t arty. That’s just a matter or practice and that’s where I come in.

Case Studies

Louise is an avid crafter. She loves crochet and creating fun designs with her Circuit machine. She was adamant though that she could not draw. However, I took her through a step by step process and she created a gorgeous design of a sunflower that she turned into a lino print block and printed onto a bag. The results were beautiful.

Some of you have told me that you are too nervous or busy to come to a group workshop and that’s why I have created one to one sessions. These sessions are totally focussed on what you want to learn and can be book at a tie to suit your diary. Anne was bought a one to one session for Mother’s Day and this is what she had to say…

I think you’ll agree that Anne produced some really beautiful mini prints and what’s more important is that she had fun doing it. I always make sure that there’s time to ‘play’ as well as learn the skills. Playing with colour and texture and having space to see what you do and don’t like is such an important part of being creative. It’s what helps us to develop our problem solving and personal style.

So what are the benefits again?

• slowing down

• managing emotions

• developing resilience

• developing problem solving skills

• FUN

• the joy of creating something

• connecting with others

I’m sure that there are many more benefits that I have no doubt missed.

If you’d like to try one of my workshops, then click the button below to see what I have coming up soon.

You can also check out my online course below, which can be accessed 24/7 from anywhere with internet access so you don’t need to worry about whether you can make it on a specific date.