When I was at Art College studying for my Ceramics degree, (a life time ago), I was surrounded by other creatives working in all types of disciplines. Sculptors, photographers, textile artists, metal workers, film makers, and ceramicists all working, living and socialising together made for a brilliantly fertile environment for creativity to flourish. I wonder whether that is what it must have been like for artist groups like the Bloomsbury Group in the early 20th Century, where writers, artists and intellectuals came together to share ideas and a passion for artistic pursuits - engaging in artistic and philosophical discussions with creativity at the core?.

Since leaving Art School, I largely work alone which I enjoy, but I do sometimes miss that creative environment. Those impromptu discussions that evolve naturally as work is created or casual chats over coffee with someone who is more into poetry than I am. Diverse imput from people who see the world from different perspectives can be very creatively nourishing - if delivered in a respectful and constructive exchange.

So, these days I have to actively seek out interactions and experiences that help to inspire and develop my creative thinking. Which is why I spent a few glorious days last week in West Dean College studying Abstract Painting. I stayed in the gorgeous historic manor house with surrounding estate and gardens which offered fabulous views, walks and lots of quiet spots for just being. As a guest in the house, all food is provided - freshly cooked and delicious , (that is a holiday in itself!), so painting and learning could be the full focus of the stay. Heaven!

We were small group of 6 artists under the gentle but extremely knowledgeable tutelage of Abstract Painter Robert Sosner. Each of us has a very different style of painting and are from different backgrounds so it was very inspiring to work side by side as well as participating in the discussions on Abstract Art concepts, ways of thinking and developing our work. Connecting and chatting over meals as we encouraged and helped one another with various sticking points or creative blocks. Robert did an excellent job of introducing us to artists and concepts without directing what we painted - it was more of a 3 day practical mentoring retreat which I felt so lucky to be part of.

I didn’t come away with any finished works - that wasn’t the point. It is all about exploring, experimenting, getting it wrong 80% of the time but learning. The freedom to just create in a supportive environment with guidance from an exceptional tutor was an absolute treat. We are all in agreement as to how valuable and fun this time has been for our creative journeys’ so have arranged to return in 6 months time for another visit. Working together means we witness each other’s struggles and breakthrough moments, as well as lots of laughs and shared stories. I couldn’t have wished for a nicer bunch of people so I am excited to meet again to see how far everyone has come and where the work will go next. I’ll definitely be ready for another crit by then.

I have returned home buzzing with new ideas for paintings and ceramic sculpture so my objective of keeping my creativity alive has been well and truly met!

Keeping the Creativity Alive