May blog post

Quite a challenging month for me. I said goodbye to my cat, Binka who died at the grand age of 18. I also had to say goodbye to my Grandad and am processing this.

I am glad it is June, I have a lot to look forward to this month. Some fun weekends and a new job. I turn 30 on the 29th!

Life has it's good days and bad days, wins and losses. Art had always been something I have done throughout the good and bad times, but most importantly it has been something that has helped me get through difficult emotions.

I have nearly finished painting Binka in the clouds.

I have also spent more time in nature, gardening and focusing on self care.

I have adjusted my fitness routine and have been enjoying bike rides and a local group, along side running and my usual strength training and mobility work/yoga.

Keeping a focus on good mental health, doing things that make me happy and healthy. Filling my mind with positivity, learning guitar, listening to and going to see live music. Reading books and listening to audio books. Moving through lifes challenges with a focus on the good things while processing heavy emotions, through rest or being active and creative outlets. Focusing on positive growth.

I have been working on quite a few different projects for a while and also preparing to start a new job.

I am enjoying painting a couple of different orchids and love to take my time to carefully create with an aim to do my best work.

There are some new print designs on my Etsy.

https://linktr.ee/Artbybradshaw

I have also decided to create an event for an art festival, Openart Folke. An artist led festival taking place in Folkestone thoughout the summer months. I will be doing a plein-air painting group at the bottom of Folkestone old highstreet again this year 😊 9th August!

https://www.openartfolke.com

Lots of great creatives involved in this again this year and lots going on through summer for people to get involved in and enjoy!

I do find it quite challenging to share my art so publically, but I love art so much and just have to! There are many times where I am so glad I got out and did it because of the connections I have made with people, and the way it has helped me improve myself.

I also enjoyed getting out as part of Folkestone Street Market in the middle of May.

It has been a busy month with a lot going on, there has been a lot to be greatful for and I am hopeful to keep on progressing! I look forward to new challenges and summer sunshine.

Take care, God bless. Happy June!

Gemma Bradshaw