Every so often, you meet someone and feel an instant creative connection. That’s exactly how it was when I met Jo Littlejohn last year. We got talking—about art, of course—and when I discovered she was an artist too, I was thrilled. As anyone who knows me can attest, I’m always delighted to meet fellow artists, especially those with a shared love for nature and detail.

If you had asked me last year whether I’d be part of another exhibition in 2025, I would have given you a firm “no.” After a challenging 2024—filled with personal and family health hurdles—I was certain I needed time out. I was tired, burnt out, and ready to step away from the whirlwind of exhibiting.

As I sit writing this, my gaze keeps drifting toward the garden. It has become a quiet companion in my creative process—an anchor when I feel stuck, and an ever-changing palette that reminds me how beauty can emerge effortlessly when left to its own rhythm.

A Fresh Start: Five Days to Freedom

The other evening, while out driving, I saw one of the most breath-taking sunsets I’ve witnessed in a long time. The sun looked like a giant fireball, glowing in deep reds and oranges, surrounded by rich hues of dark yellow. As I drove through the countryside and into the hills, the sun began to dip lower, teasing me with just the tip of its "head" before disappearing completely. It was a moment of pure, natural beauty—one that reminded me how much inspiration is all around us if we just take the time to look.

Let’s be honest—drills, practice, skill-honing… yawn, yawn. It’s not exactly the most thrilling part of being an artist. But here’s the thing: it works.

Here we are, standing at the beginning of a brand-new year, and I can already feel the creative energy buzzing! While January might be all about fresh starts and setting intentions, for me, it’s also the perfect time to look ahead to something truly exciting—our upcoming Autumn Art Exhibition.