Let's not talk about 2020.
Everything has already been said. We all know how tough it was, for some a lot more so than others. In many ways, I had it easy, but strangely, I didn't handle it particularly well and for much of the first lockdown, I did the adult equivalent of closing my eyes and sticking my fingers in my ears, singing la, la, la, and just waiting for all the horror to go away. I couldn't even retreat into my painting. The space in my head was far too busy to let me be creative, so I mostly occupied myself with jigsaws and baking. And packing...
Yes, change was on the horizon. After several false starts and dashed hopes we finally moved home at the very end of July. We haven't gone far, about 15 miles from Leamington to Toft on the edge of Dunchurch. We felt we needed somewhere a little more rural, with good dog walking and less traffic, alpacas for neighbours (big bonus!), PLUS....and here's the BIG news, I have a working studio! Hurrah!!
As you can see, this is still very much a work in progress, BUT what a glorious space it is. How lucky am I?! It's full of light, with plenty of room for a huge worktable, an office corner and even a bit of gallery space. I absolutely LOVE it and have big plans for the future - workshops, small group classes, open studio days, even small exhibitions.
All of that will have to wait of course, but in the meantime I shall start to record my 'journey' ( please excuse the cliché! ) as I get used to working in this amazing new space.
If you would like to join me on this trip and see what I'm up to, how my plans are taking shape, perhaps be the first to sign up for classes and workshops, and much more, then don't forget to sign up for my occasional blog, Studio News direct to your Inbox.
I'm excited to see what the new year will bring and I can't wait to welcome you into my studio, whether virtually or in person. See you soon!
PS As a treat, here are those alpacas...
