Today marks the first in a series of “free spirit spotlights” with some of my favorite creative and inspirational people. Also, in honor of November and giving thanks, I thought that it would be fun to host some give-aways to express my gratitude for all of your visits and great comments. (So keep reading for your chance to win a fabulous prize!)
Amelia Critchlow is an artist, writer and educational practitioner. Last year she launched her first e-course, Experimental Art, and due to its popularity, she has created more opportunities to help you express your inner artist.
I recently asked Amelia to share with us what it means to live a free spirited life-style.
1) How did you come to a place in your life where you embrace yourself as a creative person?
I would say I’ve always been a creative person and encouraged to be so from childhood. As an adult, I often found art and creativity slipping as it’s not deemed practical or job-worthy, however, I made a decision to take that part of me seriously in my late twenties by going back to art school and doing a degree (10 years ago now) and it really has been the best decision I made. I have definitely made it work as part of my earning life and of course it’s my passion too!
2) What’s your favorite art medium for self-expression?
I find it hard to choose one particular medium. But my favorites are: collage, hand-stitching, and wild experiments with paint, and ink. Currently I am exploring photography, but mainly where I can set up a scene though assembling, and also acquiring props – creating an imaginative reality and grown-up play really intrigues me! See my latest post here on play.
3) Where do you get your inspiration?
I get my inspiration from artists: the amazing, wonderful, abundant resources of active artists who have chosen to embrace and honor their passion by doing art and being artists. I go to exhibitions regularly and am an art book junkie! Plus, of course, there is now a haven of art and creativity just by looking on the World Wide Web.
4) How do you manage to find time and make space for your creative projects?
I have to treat my art and creativity as a professional and honored part of my life, otherwise it gets very easily side-lined. It is not a hobby, it is an intrinsic part of my well-being, life and profession. As dramatic as that may sound I have chosen to make it that way in defense of people telling me it was neither viable, sensible, money-earning etc. I chose not to listen to them and instead listened to my own intuition calling. I set aside ‘making’ or ‘art’ days and they are as valid as house-cleaning, any other paid work, or parenting.
5) What is a free spirit to you?
I feel like a crazy free spirit and it feels good! My definition is a person who does not conform to the norm without questioning themselves, life, and what it may be about. A person who chooses to live life by their own rules and discovers and explores what works for them and honoring that without compromising others.
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Thank you, Amelia, for sharing YOU with us.
I’ve been a participant in Amelia’s e-course and it’s awesome! Visit her blog to learn more.
Your Personal Reflection: What inspires you? Share here by leaving a comment. Everyone who leaves a comment will be entered for a random drawing to win a spot in the January session of Experimental Art E-course. And if you want a double shot at winning, join my Facebook fan page today and you’ll be entered twice!
I’ll announce the winner on Monday. Good luck!
