Green Goddess

Going gently but deeply within is the only space to create a truly authentic piece from, and this is exactly what happened when I made this one.  I took the time to make my workspace feel special with subdued lighting and the tunes I like to listen to, scented candles burning away in the background and as few distractions as possible. When I can achieve this environment I enter into an indulgent but uplifting time-warp where I really get into a piece with my whole self.  The process here was cathartic and the Goddess within flowed out through a series of strokes and tweaks with minimum fuss. I felt really ‘present’ with this girl and had the feeling that she just IS! And isn’t she rather lovely? If I may say so myself.

I started out on a nice weight of water colour paper with graphite then built up my layers with gesso, acrylic paint, pencil crayon and more graphite before embellishing. It struck me whilst creating this beauty the symbolic nature of using layers for the face, and how when we first glance at people, we take little time to ponder on the layers of experiences which have made that face unique. Our mannerisms, our energy, our expressions are all the result of our experiences and our reactions to them. And how complexly meshed together are those layers of experience!

Sunshine Girl by my 10 Year Old Daughter.

It’s been so cold for too long now (brr rr rr rr!), and although the snow has been lovely I’m starting to look forward to the warmer weather and brighter evenings.  To help set us on our merry way I have added this very optimistic looking painting made by my 10 year old daughter.  It’s been a really enjoyable experience to watch her create this.  I have given her some guidance (and a little help with the stencils) but it is otherwise all her own ideas and work. I’ve seen her go through a creative process which I know she has gained value from.  She’s used layers and collage, and new materials/techniques she’s never employed before and it’s been a journey of discovery for her.   She said to me “It’s really interesting, because if I do this……….then I’ll get ….(that).  And if I do……(blargh) ……then I’ll get (the other)!”  I could see the proverbial cogs whirring round.  She’s another creative soul and it has been a treat to really see her get engaged in a project.  She has even managed to get a buyer for it within a few hours of completing it!!  Her Dad wants to buy it for his new flat.  (We are separate.)  It helps that we have this office space for my studio, and it is somewhere to come with a specific purpose.  She loves coming here and said the other day that she wishes we could live here!!  I don’t know how long we will have it for though, as it was only meant to be temporary while we sell and move house.  I think having a separate studio/office from home has many benefits but it certainly has drawbacks too, which I am still adjusting to.  I want it both ways, ha ha!!!!!

Happy to have been able to share this with her and you!  She loves Manga/Anime art work and I believe you can see its influence here.  For more of her work see her Kid Manga website.