‘Stop Indulging in the Overwhelm’
If there’s one habit I’m determined to shake, it’s this: indulging in the overwhelm. Ever heard the phrase? I repeat it to myself daily - my little mantra to keep things on track.
A YouTube creator recently reminded me that we can spend every day tackling the so‑called 'urgent' stuff - emails, SEO and website tweaks, endless admin. They’ll keep you busy for ever more, but they won’t necessarily move you forward. If the busy work isn’t bringing you closer to your goals, it’s time to pause, look up, and decide what will.
I used to joke with a friend in our twenties: “Let’s make a plant and then do it!” We’d fall about the place laughing because, truthfully, it wasn't a new concept by any means but were fully aware that we'd make lots of plans and rarely follow through on them. These days I’m still guilty of chasing every shiny task, but now I’m intent on changing that habit - one focused day at a time.
What’s Brewing Behind the Scenes
To that end I’ve been busily creating new gift collections you’ll see over the coming months:
oversized floral tote bags (think colourful blooms and roomy pockets)
a surprise textile piece in the same spirit - watch this space
recycled‑leather creations I’m very excited about
a fresh photoshoot for my big summer earrings that are coming very soon!
Meanwhile, the studio itself is buzzing. Painting grounds me, calms me, and makes me feel wonderfully free. I’m not at the easel as often as I’d like, but compared with last year (and the year before), the pace has improved and the ideas keep flowing. Wheee!
On the Easel This Month
Two unfinished colour abstract whimsies - small, colourful pieces exploring depth, shape colour and texture. I want to bring some of the 'visual treats' that thrill me and give me pleasure when they pass my eyes - like the layering of dark detailed undertones that seem far back and the nearer floaty focused forefront. The interplay of colours, shapes and textures. I love to accept and encompass happy accidents too. There's always something I didn't plan for. Just like life. You never know what's coming down the line... There's lots of good things in store...
One of the supermarket‑inspired paintings - yes, the bargains, the baskets, the enthusuasm and the quiet comedy of it all.
I’m still in the murky middle with them, that awkward stage where nothing quite looks right. Some things need to fade back and some need to come forward and develop more... But I’m learning to enjoy diving back into half‑finished work, trusting that ideas will ripen in their own time. Little phrases help:
“Everything in good time.”“What’s for you won’t pass you.”
Paper Isn’t Second‑Best
I used to think paper was the poor cousin of canvas - less permanent, almost pointless. Lately I’m re‑thinking that. I’ve discovered a UV‑protective coating paired with a soft‑touch varnish that shields the surface from fading and scratches - no glass or spray required. Lightweight, easier (and cheaper) to post, and surprisingly durable. Expect a few experiments on paper over the next month.
Looking Ahead
That’s the studio round‑up for now. I’ll keep you posted as the tote bags bloom, the summer earrings sparkle, and the paint dries - slowly but surely - on those whimsical abstracts.
Until next time, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and the shadows will fall behind you.”
Warm wishes,Amanda
