So much going on in this fabulous county of Essex

Many years ago, I was at a crossroad in my life. What to do next?

I had been teaching Art for 20 years and needed a change.

I didn’t realise that the change would be so dramatic and fantastic

The opportunities that I have found surprised me. There is a world of creativity and a community of support for art and making

Don’t get me wrong you have to look for it and push yourself but it’s been so worth it!

I have a debt of gratitude to a number of people. Firstly my husband for his eternal support and encouragement

Artistically I have made some really important connections and I owe them a lot. The fabulous Candy @flippingzombies gave me the chance to exhibit at the much missed @windowgallery in Chelmsford. This was way back in Covid times

From that meeting, she has championed me and provided opportunities I would b ver have had otherwise. Exhibiting at The Art Place Chelmsford. And the most amazing experience of being part of Concrete Canvas Chelmsford two years in a row. THANKYOU Candy!!

Taking chances can sometimes mean doing something that you have no idea whether it will add benefit to your life

Deciding to apply for The Old Leigh Artist market was one of those decisions that has made such a positive impact

I’ve made some great connections and such a good time meeting likeminded artists and members of the art appreciating public

Thanks to John Pearman and Mark Taylor for having the vision to have art on the strand at the bank holidays in May and August

The next person that I owe a debt of gratitude too is @andydownesart

I saw the opportunity to exhibit at a little gallery space in Leigh on Sea and took it. The Little Known Gallery was a hub of creativity and a space to show emerging artists on a high street

So again during the pandemic I took a chance

It was great as I met lots of people and made some good friends. And sales too!

Andy just gave me a sense of confidence and a determination to go for my arty desires He persuaded me to put my work into The New City Gallery in Southend.

This is where I met some of the most supportive people I have ever met and I am now delighted to call them my friends

Great friendships have meant lots of support at various events and supporting them in their endeavours too

And then there have been the art trails

I have been so lucky to be included in numerous trails; Rochford, Rayleigh, Brentwood, Burnham, Thundersley and Southchurch.

Although there’s a lot of work involved in getting everything organised, these events help to get the work created in isolation out Ito the world. Fabulous individuals give-up their time and effort to showcase artists work and brighten the various locations. Engaging the public with art in a multitude of forms.

My final and most important thanks goes to my fabulous husband. he has supported me throughout this journey. He has physically assisted, promoted and encouraged me in all that I have done and achieved. He is just the best

All of this has been so great and I am eternally grateful. Now for the next adventure and to move onwards and upwards.

Where will we end up?