Reflecting on 2023
September 2023 - late summer on the Forth and Clyde Canal, Drumchapel.
2023 has been a year brimming with creativity and boundless inspiration for me, punctuated by leisurely walks near my home in Glasgow. I love exploring the ‘hidden’ parts of the city, only a stone’s throw away and brimming with nature. With each step, the ‘dear green place’ and vibrant colours of the flora and fauna have infused my mind with a kaleidoscope of ideas.
The towering trees, their branches adorned with nature's artwork, have whispered tales of resilience and growth. The tranquil canal and peaceful River Kelvin unearth hidden corners of my imagination as when I was gifted the fleeting sight of a kingfisher on the wing. Sometimes I wear headphones and listen to music as I walk, but usually I prefer the songs of the birds and the gentle rustle of leaves that provide a symphony to orchestrate my thoughts. Here, amidst the captivating beauty of Glasgow's surroundings, the perfect balance of solitude and connection with nature keeps the flame of creativity burning within me.
March 2023 - crocuses in the Botanic Gardens, Glasgow.
I’m not a particularly active walker, but as an artist I love to observe the world around me up close. Each step I take serves a purpose beyond physical exercise. It is during these moments that I allow the beauty of the natural world to seep into my soul, capturing visual images that will later inspire my artistic endeavours. With every stride, I store these scenes in my memory (and my camera), ready to emerge in the form of future textile projects. My walks are more than mere movement; they provide a wellspring of inspiration; colours, shapes, textures, and details, which nourish my creativity and infuse my art with the essence of the great outdoors.
April 2023 - lichen encrusted branch, Possil Marsh, Glasgow.
As I was exploring Possil Marsh for the first time, I had the inescapable urge to rest my face on a low-hanging branch covered in moss. I have a child-like sense of curiosity and I wanted to feel the velvety touch of the moss against my skin. As I rested on nature’s cushion, I was transfixed by the sight of the tiny lichen clinging delicately to the bark. Each minuscule organism seemed like a work of art, displaying intricate patterns and colours. Mesmerized by their resilience and ability to thrive I felt like Gulliver trespassing on this miniature land. I was utterly captivated by the extraordinary beauty that exists in even the smallest corners of our natural world.
Sometimes, the allure of the familiar is not enough. I yearn to venture further afield, to explore the untamed beauty that lies beyond the confines of my everyday surroundings in the city. In those moments, I find solace in the features of the expansive Scottish landscape under ever-changing skies. Places like Loch Lomond, the Clyde coast, and the rugged beauty of the east call to me with their wide skies and quiet beaches. It is in these untamed corners of the earth that my creative spirit finds its nourishment, and my soul is awakened with inspiration. Surrounded by nature's majestic presence, I am reminded of the sheer magnificence and power of our planet. The beauty that lies within and beyond my comfort zone is a treasure waiting to be discovered, and I embrace every opportunity to be immersed in its breathtaking embrace.
My adventures this year have taught me some lessons that I will carry with me into 2024:
Being outside and connecting with nature is good for my soul (and my creativity).
Looking at the night sky and marvelling at the moon helps to keep me grounded and encourages me to reflect on my own cycles and patterns.
Nourishing my spiritual side promotes a holistic sense of wellbeing.
Creating opportunities and experiences to do the thins I love and expand my horizons is life-changing and life-enriching.
Spending time with people is essential, embrace opportunities to meet new people.
Trying new things and learning new skills boosts my innate curiosity and allows me to play.
If like me, you enjoy learning new things, or meeting new people, then I hope you will allow me to be part of your creative journey in 2024. I have added lots of classes available to book now, all hosted in the west end of Glasgow. It would be lovely to see you there.