creativity and mental wellbeing – why making art is good for your brain

There’s something magical about getting lost in the process of making art. Whether it’s painting, sketching, or even just doodling in a notebook, creativity has a way of calming the mind and bringing a sense of peace. But this isn’t just a feeling—science backs it up. As both an artist and a provisional psychologist, I’m fascinated by the connection between art and mental wellbeing. In this post, I’ll share how creativity affects the brain, why making art is such a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, and how you can incorporate art into your routine for better mental health.
finding inspiration without copying – how to stay creative whilst developing your own style

Every artist has been there—you see a beautiful painting, an incredible colour palette, or a striking composition, and you immediately feel inspired. But then comes the tricky part: how do you use that inspiration without just recreating someone else’s work?
In this post, I’ll share practical tips for finding inspiration without copying – so you can keep your work original. I’ll cover how to use references the right way, where to find creative ideas, and how to make sure your art always reflects YOU. If you’ve ever worried about unintentionally copying or struggled with making your art feel more you, this one’s for you!
the art of watercolour layering – techniques from the masters

Watercolour is often described as a light, delicate, and unpredictable medium—but the secret to mastering it lies in layering. By building up transparent washes, artists can create depth, texture, and luminosity that give their paintings a rich, glowing quality. But layering isn’t a new concept—many of the greatest watercolour artists in history used layering techniques to achieve stunning results. In this post, we’ll explore the historical roots of watercolour layering, why it’s so effective, and how you can apply these techniques to your own work.
balancing work, study & creative practice – tips for practicing art consistently when life is busy

Between work, study, family, and life’s never-ending to-do list, it can feel impossible to make time for art. Oftentimes, practicing art consistently can feel impossible. Many artists struggle with finding a balance between responsibilities and creative passion, and it’s easy to feel guilty when art takes a backseat. But here’s the truth: you don’t need unlimited free time to grow as an artist—you just need the right approach. In this post, I’ll share realistic strategies for fitting daily art practice into a packed schedule, how to stay consistent without burnout, and why small, intentional effort beats waiting for big chunks of free time. If you love creating but struggle to find the time, this one’s for you!
the truth about talent vs hard work in art

Is artistic skill something you’re just born with, or can anyone become a great artist with enough practice? The idea that some people are simply naturally gifted at art while others are not is a common belief—but it’s also a myth. In this post, we’ll break down the science of skill-building, how deliberate practice shapes mastery, and why hard work always wins over raw talent in the long run. Plus, I’ll share real-life stories of artists who started late and still became masters—proof that it’s never too late to improve!
how to care for & preserve your art collection

Building an art collection is an exciting journey, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out. But owning art isn’t just about acquiring beautiful pieces—it’s about preserving them so they stay in pristine condition for generations to come.
In this guide, I’ll share best practices to preserve your art collection, from framing and cleaning to protecting against environmental damage. Whether you collect original paintings, prints, or mixed-media pieces, these tips will help you keep your collection looking as stunning as the day you acquired it.