As artists, our creativity isn’t just shaped by inspiration, it’s also influenced by the spaces we work in. Whether my studio space is an open warehouse, or in a cramped corner beside a washing machine, my surroundings do affect the size, scope, and even the materials I use. A need for flexibility has become a key part of my artistic journey, especially now as I make plans for a new series of paintings.

I recently made the decision to put my oil paints away indefinitely. Switching to acrylics was initially inspired by my two studio supervisors, Honey and Harriet, who have made it quite clear that the turps fumes from oil painting are no longer welcome in our shared space.

While I love the flexibility of oil paint, the fast-drying, low-odour acrylic alternative has won me over for now. I have even set-up two painting areas. One in a shed – next to the washing machine (for smaller works and mess-making), and the other in the lounge of the peeling weatherboard-clad villa I currently call home (where I’m priming full-size sheets of ply). The cats are welcome in both spaces because, for the first time in years, I have a wealth of room to work in. It feels like a fresh start.

This isn’t just due to materials, or the size of my work space, it’s also because I’m reclaiming my creative practice. For almost two years, I was the round-the-clock caregiver for my now-101-year-old, Nana Sonja, a role that was rewarding but demanding. Coming out of that experience, I’ve learned firsthand about caregiver burnout and the slow process of healing (and letting professionals take over).

Returning to the studio has been a way to reconnect with myself, process emotions, and rediscover my artistic rhythm. I’m trying to be more accepting of my own limitations while also making room for ambition.

Lately, I’ve been able to approach my work with a new sense of play and experimentation. I’ve given myself permission to try new techniques, make mistakes, and see where it all leads. After such an intense period of responsibility, it’s liberating to create space for myself again.

I’m also excited about what can come next – collaborating with other artists, seeking fresh exhibition opportunities, and sharing more behind-the-scenes moments. I intend to blog here monthly – as a way of reflecting on my studio developments, and to write openly about what’s working and what’s not. I encourage you to get in touch if you have questions about my practice. To me, changing my process also means being open to new conversations and experiences.

While finding my way back to creativity, I am forcing myself to slow down a little. Sometimes, just showing up, and spending some quality time with a brush, a pencil, or a laptop, can be the most pressing thing to do. I haven’t ruled out returning to film-making but, for now, I will focus on creating without the immediate need for a cast and/or crew. The cats are doing a fine job of managing my time as it is.

Here’s to getting back to the drawing-board. Thanks for popping in.

– Ed