Why I Returned To Art...

I took Ordinary Grade art at school. I loved it but at the time I didn't want to learn about famous artists, so although my teacher was upset with me, I turned down the chance to do my Higher. I wonder if things would be different if I'd stuck with my creative choices.

Anyway, I dabbled on and off over the years with oils and acrylics but it wasn't until lockdown happened in 2020 due to COVID that I really found my love again of art. I had been attending a weekly class on Monday's with a little group of ladies, learning different skills thanks to a local artist. It was fun and a good way to relax.

Then Covid hit and we were stuck at home. I was still trying to teach my young pupils and like everyone found it all quite stressful. It was then that I came across a relatively new artist from Cumbria who provided free online lessons using soft pastels to help with mental and physical well-being. I carried out the lessons each week and my love of soft pastels grew and grew to the extent that I bought professional ones.

Later I realised I needed to improve my drawing skills again, so I took some additional lessons to stimulate my deep hidden skills. I was always good at art, I knew this, but had never given it a real go. Now we've reached 2025 and I am teaching others how to relax and create their own masterpieces as a way to improve mental wellbeing and find calm. I have been selling my artwork for a few years too and the goal is to make it a full-time project or career.

You will have to watch this space to see if this is the year I make this happen.

Until next time, Tracey.