Have you read the book Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross? While it’s not a light read, the positive impact of art on our well being is clear. According to this book, there is increasing evidence that both making (and viewing) art improves physical and mental Read more…
Creating art can often feel like a never-ending pursuit of perfection and our internet presence only exaggerates our desire to show only our best work. Our desired results won’t always (or maybe never) meet our expectations. But making art that we consider bad or not good enough is part of Read more…
Why experiment in a sketchbook with grids? Sketchbooks are a great place to test ideas, discover new things, or play with art supplies. One way to experiment is to use a grid of smaller compositions all on one page. Grids are attractive to the eye and have been used by Read more…
Sometimes, we can’t get to our art practice and it can feel frustrating and worrying. However, there are things we can do to stay connected to our art. When we know what we want to do but getting to the art feels impossible, we need a different approach from when Read more…
In 2023 I tidied my tubes of acrylic paint away, I wanted to reduce my art waste and stop pouring paint water down the sink. I looked at alternatives and began to experiment with other materials. Artist friends have switched to refillable paints and pens or invested in filtration systems Read more…
The Brighton Festival starts in May 2024 and that means Artists Open Houses begin too. During May over 180 homes, studios and venues in Brighton and Hove will be open to the public. Hundreds of artists and makers will be sharing their work and skills. It’s a wonderful opportunity to Read more…
What is creative block? Creative block is described as an inability to access our creativity. It can feel like being stuck, having no ideas or not being motivated to create at all and it can be uncomfortable. Creativity is essential to our lives from our soul-filling hobbies to how we Read more…
There are many benefits to working smaller and it’s having a resurgence as many artists embrace the impact of tiny art. From smaller abstract pieces to miniature realistic paintings, artists of all skill levels can create small artworks for fun, creative development and to sell. When working small feels necessary Read more…
When the new year comes around we are encouraged to set goals and start new habits. We feel pressure to fling ourselves into big dreams with wild energy but Wintering, for artists, can be a valuable part of the creative cycle. In January, artists might declutter their space, book exhibitions Read more…
Winter Artists Open Houses in Brighton and Hove In Brighton and Hove, Artists Open Houses are getting ready to open for the winter season. At the end of November, homes and studios will open their doors for three weekends. The work of hundreds of artists and makers will be on Read more…