Why do I share my art

I have had the most incredible weekend opening my studio and introducing my new Springtime Collection to visitors supporting the Hospice Open Garden fundraising event. The link between my studio and my work to this event was, of course, the hope that anyone walking into my studio would feel the joy of spring and experience a sense of gardens and nature in my studio. I had no fixed expectation in my mind as to what the response would be, as I knew I sat outside of what most people would be expecting. However, the inspiration from my morning walks, as I watched spring emerge, colours and light change and the wonder of buds, blooms, and fresh, new sounds and scents fill the air, translated on to my canvases was enough to convince me that it was worth stepping out of the boat and trying something new.

The number of visitors, the level of interest and support, and the way that people shared so openly and enthusiastically with me the way they experienced my studio and work was unbelievable. I am truly grateful for the incredible response that I received. I also had many, many visitors thanking me for opening up my studio and home gallery and sharing my work with them, a number of people said that they felt inspired looking at my paintings, and that they experienced a sense of peace, hope and joy. As an artist, I get to choose whether or not to share what I create, it is not always easy, sharing what is from the heart, but if I don't, what is the point, I have to ask myself. There is always a risk when putting our art out in the public domain, but for me sharing my art is a part of the journey, it is another step in the creative process! Art requires courage and a willingness to keep on trying, exploring and learning, I love that it is a lifelong journey!

I am looking forward to sharing this work in progress when it is complete. Right now it is "resting" in my studio as I step back and see what, if anything needs to be added, taken away or changed.

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