With some slight apprehension (which I am re-labelling excitement) I am about to host a Q&A evening on Thursday 6th July at 6pm, the Teifi Waterside Hotel at Poppit, Pembrokeshire and unveiling my latest series of paintings inspired by the glorious surroundings of the Teifi estuary.
As part of the evening I'll be talking about my process and motives for painting. To be prepared I've been making some notes, and doing a bit of soul searching.
In the talk, I'll be reflecting on my art career over the last two decades, in particular my love of colour, story telling and disregard for the 'rules' of painting.
Finding Happiness and Resilience through the Beauty of Paintings
In life, we all face challenging times that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and searching for solace. During one such period, I discovered a remarkable source of happiness and resilience that helped me navigate through the storm: happy paintings. In this blog post, I want to share my personal journey and how these uplifting artworks became, and continue to be a beacon of light during difficult times.
The Story Behind Happy Paintings: Happy paintings are not just colourful images on canvas; they hold a powerful narrative that resonates. Each stroke of the brush and vibrant hue on the canvas reflects my mission in life - to share the joy. It may seem rather simplistic to some, but it's the strong core of my work, and my being, that I keep returning unapologetically to.
"Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire, and motivate." - Harvey Fierstein
Inspiration from Happy Moments: When life becomes challenging, we often long for happy memories and moments that bring us joy. Happy paintings have a unique way of capturing those cherished experiences. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting us to idyllic holidays, peaceful beaches, and blooming gardens. These visual representations of happy moments serve as a reminder of the beauty and positivity that exist in our lives.
Happiness as a Source of Resilience: During my own difficult times, these paintings became my refuge. They provided a sanctuary where I could escape the hardships and immerse myself in a world filled with color, laughter, and peace. The vibrant scenes of dogs playing, boats sailing on calm waters, and charming villages became symbols of resilience and hope.
The Healing Power of Art: Art, in all its forms, possesses an incredible ability to heal and uplift the human spirit. Happy paintings, in particular, emanate positive energy and radiate joy. The act of observing and immersing oneself in these artworks can have a transformative effect on our emotions, helping us find solace, inspiration, and the strength to persevere.
"Creativity takes courage." - Henri Matisse
Through difficult times, I found that incorporating 'happy paintings' into my daily life made a profound difference. Surrounding myself with these colours and stories created a positive atmosphere, reminding me to focus on the beauty that exists amidst the chaos. They served as gentle reminders to seek happiness, even in the smallest of moments.
"Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time." - Thomas Merton
We all have difficult time and finding happiness and resilience is essential. Happy paintings became my guiding light during such times, providing a much-needed source of joy and strength. Through their playful narratives and vibrant imagery, these artworks continue to inspire and uplift me. The nourishing power of art can truly calm our lives and help us navigate with hope.
Art is the highest form of hope." - Gerhard Richter.
Does this mean I can only paint Happy Pictures when I'm not happy? It did for a while, but now, not at all. Joy sparks joy and as has been said 'Joy shared is never diminished'
If you'd like to hear and see more
Join us for an evening journey through my creative process, exploring the stories behind the artwork and the inspirations that breathe life into my 'happy pictures'. I hope you'll smile at the vibrant scenes of dogs playing on warm sandy beaches, boats gently sailing along the estuary, picturesque villages nestled amidst lush greenery, and the spectacular blooming great beauty of flowers that adorn the landscape, and my kitchen table!
During the Q&A session, you'll have the opportunity to connect with me directly and gain insights into my work. Ask me about my creative techniques, the significance of the Teifi estuary in the work, or anything that sparks your curiosity.... I reserve the right to say I don't know! But I hope this intimate interaction will deepen your appreciation for the artistry and love that goes into each painting.
I'd love you to join me, it's such a pleasure to talk in person to people who have an interest in my work. If you would like to join us, please contact the Teifi Waterside hotel directly to secure your seat. Bring a friend, and be a part of this celebration as we unveil the new vibrant, joyful, memorable Teifi estuary series and have a good time together.
love
Helen