Sophie Mill Art Studio : I know I am not alone when it comes to public humi...

Sophie Mill Art Studio : I know I am not alone when it comes to public humi...: I know I’m not alone when it comes to public humiliation... Gossip, half-truths, and lies take the root and fester. Face book 'sugg...

I know I am not alone when it comes to public humiliation...

I know I’m not alone when it comes to public humiliation...

Gossip, half-truths, and lies take the root and fester.

Face book 'suggestions' and 'article' suggestions enforces the lowering of a person and strips that person of pride, honour and dignity. It may surprise you to learn that I am actually a person however, we have seemingly moved back into the 17th century where we have created, a 'culture of humiliation' once again. And, it rewards those who humiliate others.

Public Humiliation is a violation of unity in dignity and respect. An argument may be loud, but it’s in private. An abusive accusation often takes place in front of others. 'Others' is including an article in the paper!

Nothing to me is unexpected, or anyone who feels obliged to dis-like another; dis-like is normal natural human behaviour, and it is 'allowable'. I like to look for only the best in everyone, but the worst thing about that kind of prejudice... is that while you feel hurt and angry, it feeds self-doubt.

In the future, I will meet abuse by forbearance since patience is a virtue however, on this day I will confront it.

The phrase ‘crippling embarrassment’ is accurate. It is in my opinion that humiliation, shame and embarrassment are ‘the central emotions of everyday social existence'. We, mostly, do anything to avoid them because our awareness of how the self appears to others has been important for centuries; it is in-built.

True, this was not the first time I’d been stigmatized for my mistakes, achievements, personality, good behaviour and lack of in-sight, but there are many things which we can employ tomorrow that we cannot wisely use today. "Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing that is worth knowing can be taught". Oscar Wild

Shakespeare’s Coriolanus (‘Sit Coriolanus; never shame to hear what you have nobly done’) today we feel shame when praised, when we have given to society, worked hard, but we also feel shame when we 'slip'. No one deserves public humiliation for a crime that is not actually a 'crime'.

That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward. Ernest Hemingway I have been rewarded. The 'Artists Reward' is worth more than any monies. Just as Martin Luther King Jr said, 'I have a dream...' After public humiliation, I can go on to paint my brilliant dream.

Thank you for my public humiliation. Today, I am stronger. Today, I am wiser. Today, I feel blessed.

Sophie Mill Art Studio : Why here now? why not day dream?

Sophie Mill Art Studio : Why here now? why not day dream?: Why the here now? Why not day-dream? The phenomenon associated with the 'here now' is a wave that is flooding societies belief of fi...

Why here now? why not day dream?

Why the here now? Why not day-dream? The phenomenon associated with the 'here now' is a wave that is flooding societies belief of finding creativity, calmness, happiness, and it is thought to be eradicating mental illness. I think it is absurd, but it gets support from a lot of people. With 1 in 3 people suffering, this billion dollar phenomenon is obviously not working.

Day dreaming gives insight to our own humanity, a crucial tool in creativity. If things are not so good, creativity allows you to imagine something better. I believe day dreaming is equivalent to meditation. However, it comes from the creative side of the brain and not the academic side of the brain. An academic Psychiatrist will disagree with me. But, how can he disagree when he is not aware of the sensation?

I'm finding quite reasonable people are agreeing with the absurd. I did for 46 years. But, looking outside of yourself, looking beyond, looking forward, planning, working towards, allowing the natural human behaviour to evolve (ego) without condemnation is the way out of the 'deadly circle'.

It is my belief, the here now and accepting what Is keeps you inside of the circle; the circle can kill the soul. Looking up and into the future with responsibilities, commitments and dedication walks you calmly outside of the circle, and it insists that your mind think 'outside of the square'. This is where creativity and passion is located. This is where mental illness can be soothed. This is why ART is important.

The arts enable us to imagine the unimaginable, and to connect us to the past, the present, and the future, sometimes simultaneously.

Art classes available in 2015 in my studio, Hamilton South, book sales, Art work by commission. Public Speaker; key-note speaker with TEDX Sydney 2015. www.sophiemill.com.au

http://hunterlifestyle.com.au/2014/12/encore-artist-sophie-mills/

Sophie Mill Art Studio : Lets chat about contemporary art...

Sophie Mill Art Studio : Lets chat about contemporary art...: There are plenty of blow hard, snobbish intellectuals in the art world, I love them because they're so much fun to parody.  I have wa...

Lets chat about contemporary art...

There are plenty of blow hard, snobbish intellectuals in the art world, I love them because they're so much fun to parody. 

I have watched (for years) as people dismiss contemporary art as a toy for "rich people" rather than actually doing his homework and moving beyond easy stereotypes. For the last 50 years we have been taught that academia knowledge is the only knowledge to the detriment of other knowledge's. The lack of arts education in our schools today have failed to give proper education which gives way to assumptions, ignorance and misinformation. It is true, I could be talking about many subjects rather than 'just' art.

I believe that there are too many assumptions that create problems in public perception when it comes to contemporary art and, again, I could insert 'emotions'; more formally described Mental Illness.

What is my point? Contemporary art is the most exciting sector of the art world. Contemporary art covers everything: painting, sculpture, drawing, new media, events, you name it. It's fluid, all-encompassing and ever-changing.

What is my second point? The human is also exciting. The human needs his emotions so that he/she can go onto cover everything in the art world; painting, sculpture, drawing, new media, events, you name it. He/she is fluid, all-encompassing and ever-changing.

What is my third point? Never be frightened of your emotions, educate them into producing something extraordinary.

Art classes available 2015 Sophie Mill Studio.

Art talks, comedy, Mental Illness discussions starting February on a monthly basis at
CSTUDIOS ART GALLERY INFO@CSTUDIOSARTGALLERY.COM.AU 1/738 HUNTER STREET NEWCASTLE NSW 2302 ON THE CORNER OF HUNTER STREET AND BELLEVUE STREET, WALKING DISTANCE FROM WICKHAM STATION.

Sophie Mill   Fine contemporary artist, author and comedian

‘The Woman in the Distance’ reflections of un-settled seasons

www.sophiemill.com.au

www.thewomaninthedistance.com

amazon.com

barnesandnoble.com

xlibris.com

Maclean's book store Hamilton

Wise Words Moree

0426845584

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO MY READERS AND FRIENDS

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO MY READERS AND FRIENDS: Dear reader of 'The Woman in the Distance', After one year, it seems my work is never finished however, I don't want it t...

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO MY READERS AND FRIENDS

Dear reader of 'The Woman in the Distance',

After one year, it seems my work is never finished however, I don't want it to finish.  Although, I am sure you have finished my book.  I would be interested to know if reading 'The Woman in the Distance' created creativity, feelings, emotions or any type of 'adjustment' in your life. 

I was led to believe that relaxation is good. Today, I have found that action is quite possibly more beautiful.  To paint and write came from a spontaneous thought, but my motivation was to create change for a variety of reasons.  I believe that change is necessary, it prevents stagnation.  Creativity can move you out of this stage although it take courage and strength.  It is a strength that often wears me out however, the end result is worth a little tiredness.

I don't call it a dream, because then I would miss the reality of my efforts.  I think reality is better than a dream, but I am always dreaming for the reality to be more colourful.  

For those who were more interested in learning about anxiety, depression, mental illness I hope you un-covered something we don't often learn; self-actualization.

Everyone has a that 'something' in their heart that needs to be expressed one way or another, but it is often difficult to locate, as though it is not available to you. I could always feel 'that something' but I just couldn't reach it to save myself from that dreadful condition that still holds a lot of stigma.

To find that deep voice hidden in the innermost core of your being can be brought to the surface simply by understanding that self expression is of the utmost importance in humanity; self actualization.  It was with this understanding that I was able to perform on stage at Sydney Town Hall in front of 1200 people and give my inaugural comedy gig.  Stand-up comedy is to bring humour to mental illness and break down stigma.  

I also learnt that I don't want to listen to anyone except myself. Doctors, psychiatrists, therapists, facilitators, mindfulness therapy, cognitive therapy, guru's and other.  Why?  because they implore us constantly to give up memory, to live in the herenow.  No one would listen to me.  To give up memory I must also give up my creative imagination, for I am an artist, writer and comedian and all that I have has its roots in what I remember. 

Today, after nearly half a century on earth - I have found that I am neither mentally ill nor depressed any longer. 

It is my hope that one more person can recover and find that 'something' so that he/she can see that reality is just as good as the dream.  

Happy Christmas.

Kind thoughts,

 

Sophie Mill   Fine contemporary artist, author and comedian

‘The Woman in the Distance’ reflections of un-settled seasons

www.sophiemill.com.au

www.thewomaninthedistance.com

amazon.com

barnesandnoble.com

xlibris.com

Maclean's book store Hamilton

Wise Words Moree

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: Day dreaming and imagination

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: Day dreaming and imagination: What is the difference between day-dreaming, imagination, make-believe and illusions?  Imagination It is the difference between reality an...

Day dreaming and imagination

What is the difference between day-dreaming, imagination, make-believe and illusions? 

Imagination It is the difference between reality and make-believe. A regular and down-trodden word is 'day-dreaming' however, a day-dream or an imagination allows us to experience vulnerabilities whilst keeping us safe from 'real life'.

Illusions lack mind control and have a tendency to lean into halautitation's.

To me, the free play of our mind is what enables us to feel, see and experience the movement and fluidity of creativity. Free play allows the mind to consider things which are not present to the senses, and to consider that which is not to be real. To limit imagination would be to limit thoughts.

The imagination has been bound so tightly that we have witnessed an entire generation that is un-able to 'see into the future'. Being consumed with this moment can prevent you from moving out-side of the circle. It s the circle that ruins much more than a canvas.

For public speaking - comedy events - art classes - mentoring - and mental illness mentoring please visit www.sophiemill.com.au 0426845584

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: A new thought.....

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: A new thought.....: Each day I have different thoughts, ideas and ways to work out problems. Today, I believe creativity is about story telling. It is  the stor...

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: A new thought.....

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: A new thought.....: Each day I have different thoughts, ideas and ways to work out problems. Today, I believe creativity is about story telling. It is  the stor...

A new thought.....

Each day I have different thoughts, ideas and ways to work out problems. Today, I believe creativity is about story telling. It is the stories that keep us alive, well, curious, interested and interesting.

Over our lives, I can confidently announce that we all have had varying degrees of failures, opportunities, loves, hates, compassion, anger, happiness, sadness, good behaviour and bad behaviour unless, of course, we are a robot who has been perfectly programmed by a perfect person.

Everyone is entitled to have their opinions. We are fortunate enough to live in a country that allows freedom of speech. But, freedom of speech also entails that we must also accept other peoples opinions be it you agree or disagree.

So, here I go with my opinion. I believe we are not taught enough about what is 'natural human behaviour'. We are not taught enough about why we have our emotions.

I think we need to understand that we all have a vital part to play. A realistic portrayal of life would be what? A normal state of mind is what? Each time we listen to a person who states how our mind should be operating, and that we must change our thought patterns to match their 'correct table' only creates more anxiety, depression and fear.

Why? because there was a real reason we were put on earth to be different from each other. That real reason was to keep humanity healthy. It is necessary that we have non agreeable criticism. It is necessary that we pay attention to those who commit crimes, wrong doings, and dis-respect the law.

But, it is also necessary to 'Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else'.
Margaret Mead.

For those who suffer anxiety and depression please seek medical advice. For art therapy (non-medical) please look at my art classes for 2015. 0426845584

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: what is a good story?

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons: what is a good story?: To tell a good story or paint a good picture takes more than technical painting ability and grammatical understanding. It takes courage to c...

what is a good story?

To tell a good story or paint a good picture takes more than technical painting ability and grammatical understanding. It takes courage to cut your artery and bleed out what you have in-side.  To be fearless of the condemnatory backlashes (that may or may not happen) is where you need to rely upon your natural instincts and creativity. If you let go of the perceived outcomes, the 'other' brain will not let you down. 


I hope you enjoy my story, 'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons.  Article, and book review will be featured in the Sunday Telegraph 19th May, 2014.http://www.sophiemill.com.au

Sail the Indonesian waters with 16 guests aboard a luxury pirate ship: 'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-sett...

Sail the Indonesian waters with 16 guests aboard a luxury pirate ship: 'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-sett...: The Woman in the Distance Sophie Mill has led a productive, passionate and creative life with solo exhibitions in Australia, Italy and the...

'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons OUT NOW

The Woman in the Distance

Sophie Mill has led a productive, passionate and creative life with solo exhibitions in Australia, Italy and the USA. Sophie has two children and has been married for sixteen years. She now lives in Newcastle, Australia working as a full time contemporary artist and writer, and escorts painting and writing group tours to Manhattan, New York.

Sophie Mill has a natural ability to be profoundly insightful with her thoughts, ideas and creative story telling. This emotive piece of writing starts with early love stories, and then it un-ravels to reveal something quite extraordinary. ‘The Woman in the Distance’ is a classical true story that every woman will find inspiring. Not everyone has experienced happiness, but every woman has experienced heartache. This creative international contemporary artist evokes a wide range of emotions with her art works as well as her powerful use of the word.

This incredible story walks the reader easefully through disappointments, tragedies, hardships and it brings light to mental illness through artful story telling.

This must read memoire is for those who have experienced anorexia, alcohol abuse, isolation, deep love, mental illness, loss and heartbreak. This story is not about defeatism, it is a delightful adventure into passion and creativity. Sophie Mill is hilarious with her quick wit, and emotional with her despair. Set in the Australian outback, this bright and bubbly city girl soon fi nds out that the land is ruthlessly isolating, but this author creates a picture of brilliance.

Published by Xlibris

Order Today!

Call +1800 455 039 (Domestic),

+44 20 3014 4095 (Int’l)

order online at www.xlibris.com.au,

www.amazon.com, www.bn.com,

or visit your local bookstore.

Come sailing around the Indonesian Islands: Sail Indonesia whilst painting and writing, cookin...

Come sailing around the Indonesian Islands: Sail Indonesia whilst painting and writing, cookin...: There are many common interest groups who like to travel together and a private charter is the way to go. When you charter the boat you ...

Sail Indonesia whilst painting and writing, cooking, photography and snorkling

There are many common interest groups who like to travel together and a private charter is the way to go. When you charter the boat you have total control over where we go and who travels with you. There is a flat daily rate that covers all food, staffing and beverages.
You work directly with our Captain to ensure that your expectations are met. As we do work on a 14 day rotation there is a minimum number of days per private charter but these will be much less than you expect.
Contact us for further information.

Expedition Cruises

I am extraordinarily lucky to be close friends with Mick Fogg. On most of my Indonesian adventures, I have been accompanied by either Mick, or one of his team. His company - Wallacea Expeditions - have agreed to work closely (or hand in hand) with Indonesian Island Sail to provide tailor made expedition tours.
Indonesia Sailing Cruise Adventure Each expedition cruise will have a member of Mick’s team accompany us. Daily lectures, and their personal leadership make expedition tours unforgettable. Mick is one of only a handful of people, who has access to the Camp Leaky Orang-utan Care Centre in Borneo. Here you get to interact with baby and adolescent orang-utans. An experience that is simply priceless.
For more information you can contact either Mick or myself. http://www.indonesianislandsail.com

Laying down without feeling exposed...

Art is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual....: Painting and Writing Tours in Manhattan

Art is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual....: Painting and Writing Tours in Manhattan: Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life. Ludwig van Beethoven Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/...http:www.sophiemill.com.au

Painting and Writing Tours in Manhattan

Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.

Ludwig van Beethoven

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/l/ludwigvanb153098.html#PFxsWvCcovVJqe85.99

Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.

Ludwig van Beethoven

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/l/ludwigvanb153098.html#PFxsWvCcovVJqe85.99

Beethoven said that music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual; the same can be said for art and writing. 


What does it mean to paint and write?  It means that an un-told amount of passion and erotic fulfilment happens to the self. And, all this is from a single sheet of paper, a few pens, and a pot of paint. 


Travelling is an art, it is about seeing, experiencing and understanding.  When this happens, the experience can never be taken from you.  Just as it is with love, once you fall in love the memory and the feeling stays with you for a life time. If it wasn't love, the image quietly drifts into the distance of nothingness.


To experience Manhattan's most incredible places is to paint and write, then frame the memory.

What does stigma mean to those contributing to society?: The Media Makes an Effort to Feed Bi-Polar Stigma....

What does stigma mean to those contributing to society?: The Media Makes an Effort to Feed Bi-Polar Stigma....: Each person has more to their personality than a single story. A human could not be human if he was a singleton. I am talking about a sing...

What does stigma mean to those contributing to society?: The Media Makes an Effort to Feed Bi-Polar Stigma....

 Each person has more to their personality than a single story. A human could not be human if he was a singleton. I am talking about...

The Media Makes an Effort to Feed Bi-Polar Stigma...

Each person has more to their personality than a single story. A human could not be human if he was a singleton. I am talking about a single story of being Bi-Polar. A person living with Bi-polar has a few moments of un-settlement, and a lot more moments of torture; twice as many Americans die by suicide than murder. Bi-polar does not define them. Bi-polar does not cause them to commit a crime. And, it certainly does not make them sex addicts.


Many people are robbed of their dignity each and every time a crime is committed. Why? Because the media assume this illness was at the crux of the explosive storm. We say we want stigma to be reduced in the mental health area, yet we are continually happy for the media to expose the person’s mental health each time a gruesome crime is committed.


Bipolar disorder, and especially its slightly less disabling form which is known as bipolar 2, is frequently found among successful, driven people (as well as millions of ordinary folk, of course). It is a fact that there are many people setting up the arts, medical, literature and political arena than people sitting in the Goal system. Yet, this fact is rarely publicised. We never read headlines that say, ‘Bi-Polar Brain Surgeon Saves Another Young Adult’ or ‘Bi-Polar Ballet Dancer Gets Standing Ovation at the Opera House’. But, day after day we read in big black letters, ‘Bi-Polar Woman kills her Children’, ‘Bi-Polar Man rapes’.


Thanks to google the world can be alarmed to know that Johnny Depp, Sheryl Crow, Halle Berry, Agatha Christie, Eric Clapton, Kurt Cobain, Drew Barrymore and Princess Dianna all suffered with depression or bi-polar. All these people and many more have never committed an act of gruesomeness, instead they have given us music, art, poetry, literature, adventure and fashion.


The high rates of substance use and abuse is one of the primary factors contributing to the high incarceration rate of the mentally ill. "The prevalence of serious mental health issues is higher among incarcerated individuals than in the general population, and is associated with specific sociodemographic characteristics like male gender, younger age, and non-white race. Severe psychopathology is also associated with higher recidivism and more serious criminal offenses," said Dr. Stathopoulou.


With the social media taking over our lives more rapidly than any other time in history, I have to wonder if this type of information is easily constructing how we think, and also reducing peoples thoughts at the very same time.


 Adrian Holliday says, ‘The weight of responsibility is on us to understand ourselves, rather than on essentialist categories of ‘them’. However, ‘Words’ carry a lot of power, and with technology coming at us faster than we are able to digest the information, is there any wonder we are not progressing past old ideas.


In our fast moving world I am going to ask, ‘is it the mental illness that is dividing us or is it language? Just as it was one hundred years ago (or less) with the colour of a person’s skin dividing us, is it the over use of technology language today? Stuart Hall talks about ‘Language is thus a great divider of people. As soon as people use language they are judged by the people who hear them as belonging to certain social groups, and the images and stereotypes that are attached to these groups may be invoked and applied to them’.


With the use of language we saw the feminist movement begin it’s powerful shift in the late 19th Century. It started with communication. It started with speaking out against what was not right and what needed to change. How did we change Lesbian and Gay rights? We changed it through communication, and again standing up for what is right.


  I spoke to many people about this story. They were not ready to have their names published. I am happy to mention my name, and I am bi-polar. I hold down relationships, add to society, help others, I am bright, intelligent, and I have never once been rude or day dreamed about committing a crime. Not once. Yet, I am ashamed and I am embarrassed that my illness is spread across the front pages of the London Times, New York Gazette or the Sydney Morning Herald each time one person expresses his or her narcissistic and sociopathic behaviours.

Internationally recognised 'The Woman in the Distance' : The Woman in the Distance'

Internationally recognised 'The Woman in the Distance' : The Woman in the Distance': Newcastle’s International Contemporary Artist has become internationally recognised as a new author. Sophie Mill’s inaugural book, ‘The Wom...

The Woman in the Distance'

Newcastle’s International Contemporary Artist has become internationally recognised as a new author. Sophie Mill’s inaugural book, ‘The Woman in the Distance’ is due out end of February. The book has already received rave reviews from the famed New York radio announcer Stu Taylor. Sophie’s stream of consciousness takes you on a creative, passionate, tortured and erotic journey into the Australian outback where the author battles with isolation and incredible hardships. This true story is a saga starting in 1912 and it is an emotional roller coaster ride of tears and heartbreak. ‘Freedom within has finally been found, and this is a personal accomplishment. The necessary journey to find myself was colossal, although given a second opportunity my life would be lived exactly the same way’. Sophie said. ‘I paint and write to find out what I am actually thinking’. The author said. ‘To examine your conscience entails honesty. I find it easy to be honest in the art studio, but to be honest in real life takes enormous effort’. Sophie went onto say, ‘The things that haunt you, the things that have power over you—once you confront them, they lose their power… I think I did that with my life time of depression and anxiety. Today, I am finally free of feeling fractured’. This story will inspire those who have battled with anorexia, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, mental illness, isolation and heartbreak. This story is not about defeatism. It is about finding creativity in the arduousness of our real lives. This is a must read book. Dates will be published about ‘Book Signing at the Junction Pub’ soon. All information can be found through www.sophiemill.com.au

What does it take to be authentic and original..: Action is Character. Scott Fizgerald

What does it take to be authentic and original.. How do we discover a sense of authenticity? or what is authenticity? I often hear and read many different articles about being original, aut...

Action is Character. Scott Fizgerald

How do we discover a sense of authenticity? or what is authenticity? I often hear and read many different articles about being original, authentic, true to the self, and you must live in the present moment all without having too much ego. It is all very well reading words abstracted from the Eastern Block that was part of their lives in the 1500's. But, we are living in the forever fast Western World where information comes at us faster than we can digest it. Is there any wonder original thoughts are difficult to gather never mind trying to do what is almost humanly impossible. There are many aspects of a personality that need to be present in order for us to live life, have a career and create. That is, we need some ego, some narcissism and some drifting thoughts in order to find originality and authenticity. We are human after all. To think creatively and originally is to live by ourselves, live in isolation, quietness and it is to accept that boredom is a creative link. In boredom, your own thoughts can be heard. Your own heartbeat can be felt. With that, a natural flow of inner creativity floats to the surface. To paint this creativity and allow others to enjoy it, is where that little bit of narcissism and ego come into play. Without it, no art would be on show. No books would be written and little music could be heard.

Action is character F. Scott Fitzgerald

How do we discover a sense of authenticity? or what is authenticity? I often hear and read many different articles about being original, authentic, true to the self, and you must live in the present moment all without having too much ego. It is all very well reading words abstracted from the Eastern Block that was part of their lives in the 1500's. But, we are living in the forever fast Western World where information comes at us faster than we can digest it. Is there any wonder original thoughts are difficult to gather never mind trying to do what is almost humanly impossible. There are many aspects of a personality that need to be present in order for us to live life, have a career and create. That is, we need some ego, some narcissism and some drifting thoughts in order to find originality and authenticity. We are human after all. To think creatively and originally is to live by ourselves, live in isolation, quietness and it is to accept that boredom is a creative link. In boredom, your own thoughts can be heard. Your own heartbeat can be felt. With that, a natural flow of inner creativity floats to the surface. To paint this creativity and allow others to enjoy it, is where that little bit of narcissism and ego come into play. Without it, no art would be on show. No books would be written and little music could be heard.

What is it like to be good in bed....: 'everyone who can read should read this book' Maya...

What is it like to be good in bed....: 'everyone who can read should read this book' Maya...: There are a few things in life I have never forgotten, and there are a few words of wisdom that also sit in my mind. My grandmother always...

'everyone who can read should read this book' Maya Angelou

There are a few things in life I have never forgotten, and there are a few words of wisdom that also sit in my mind. My grandmother always told me, 'wear life like a loose garment'. That way she said, 'it will allow you to grow and shrink, in life, without restrictions'. Another quote is from Pablo Picasso, 'the enemy of creativity is 'good' sense'. It is true. As soon as we become fearful of what others think of us, we become 'good' and in turn it robs us of something bigger. It robs us of our spirit and soul. Creativity is exactly like life; it needs to be fed. So what happens if we don't feed our creativity and passion? I think we become old. We become bitter and angry. But mostly, we become sad. This deep sadness can rise in all forms. It could be anxiety, depression, weight gain, tiredness, reduced sex drive and a whole host of other things. 'The Woman in the Distance' is a must read if you are suffering with anxiety, anorexia, lack of something you are un-able to articulate. This book will teach you how to find creativity and yourself. It will relax you into what is real in life. What is real is YOU! 'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled seasons due out end of February, 2014

What is it like to be good in bed....: In solitude we give passionate attention to our li...

What is it like to be good in bed....: In solitude we give passionate attention to our li...: My love is painting and my love is writing, but sometimes there is another pull. This pull keeps me in bed. But let me say for special ...

What is it like to be good in bed....: In solitude we give passionate attention to our li...

What is it like to be good in bed....: In solitude we give passionate attention to our li...: My love is painting and my love is writing, but sometimes there is another pull. This pull keeps me in bed. But let me say for special ...

In solitude we give passionate attention to our lives, to our memories, to the details around us' Virginia Woolf

My love is painting and my love is writing, but sometimes there is another pull. This pull keeps me in bed. But let me say for special attention, depression spawns creativity. Lets not feel ashamed to keep talking openly so that we can stop stigma. Depression is disruptive to our lives but it can also be beaten, tragically for many not eradicated but more simply put – curtailed. Am I good in bed? I think so, I wrote a book. 'The Woman in the Distance' reflections of un-settled season. Due out end of February, 2014 book signing dates to be announced soon...

Hanging an Abstract Painting

I have many friends who have hung abstract pictures on their walls and found themselves gazing at them endlessly, and then exclaiming, 'I don't know what there is in that painting, but I can't take my eyes off it'.  This kind of bewilderment is salutary. It does us good not to be able to explain, either to ourselves or to others, what we enjoy or love; it expands our capacity for experience. 

The Art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook. William James: Defining the Road to Follow.....

The Art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook. William James: Defining the Road to Follow.....: My New Years wishes are vast, but they are not about hoping for less disappointments and failures, instead I will attempt to be more flexib...

Defining the Road to Follow.....

My New Years wishes are vast, but they are not about hoping for less disappointments and failures, instead I will attempt to be more flexible in my ideas, thoughts and set ideals.

On the first day of 2014, I noticed people writing on blogs and face book, 'it is time to let go of the past and move forward'.... 

Why do people feel threatened by their past mistakes, failures and lack of something that is often too hard to articulate?  Why do we feel the need to let it go, forget and march forward with a new found inner courage? 

A person's history does not begin with the birth but rather has roots that extend much further into the past.  Knowing about these roots help us understand the here-and-now.  We need not be frightened of the past but rather reflect, dream and then we find our own humanity; A crucial tool in Art.


Perhaps if we learnt more about Art, Writing and Expression we would naturally understand our unique selves. Our unique lives.  And, not feel such a strong need to 'wipe the slate clean', but to embrace the imperfections.  In Art, the imperfections make a painting interesting.

'It is impossible to predict the time of a philosophical Renaissance. One can only define the road to follow, but not it's length. What is certain, however, is that every aspect of Western Culture needs a new code of ethics- a rational ethics- as a precondition of rebirth . And no aspect needs it more desperately than the realm of art'.  Ayn Rand. The esthetic vacuum of our age.

Happy New Year.  Kind thoughts, Sophie