Over the past few months I've been reminded of the power of sharing your creativity with others. Through witnessing the joys, challenges, failures and successes of other artists we can gain a fresh perspective and deeper understanding into our own work.

As an artist who runs workshops I know they are often seen as a one-way learning environment, where participants enroll to learn from the main educator. However, after years of teaching I've found the most transformational moments can occur during group discussions. Listening to the struggles and emotional journeys of others is incredibly humbling.

We pour our hearts into our work, whether that's on canvas, paper, film, or clay. Our materials and actions are an intimate expression of ourselves. The colors we use, the energy we put in, our interests and tastes – it all reveals hidden parts of us to others. It can express our ambitions, dreams and beliefs.

So it makes sense that by sharing our art, we often feel vulnerable and exposed! But this is the beautiful part… by allowing ourselves to be seen, we open ourselves up to connection. And that feels so good!

It's connection on a deep and honest level, which I believe is something we all fundamentally seek.

The depth of these experiences bring a real balance to my life as an artist. The solitary practice of painting is enriched with periods of brilliant connectedness. I come away feeling I know that person. I may not know their history, or their life situation, but I’ve connected to the essence of who they are.

I recently spent time in Tuscany with a group of 5 other artists. Our aim was to respond to the unique landscape and learn from each other with the hope of enricing our own practice. In the day we would paint outdoors and in the evening critique each others work. But again, the greater connections came from the conversations in between. Hearing about where we each felt stuck; where we were frustrated and what was holding us back was what brought us together. We came from all corners of the world and had never met in person before, but after working creativity, a bond grew. I feel I know who they are, and what they want to become. There were tears, laughter, frustration and ‘A-Ha Moments’.

I came away remembering these discussions and the beautiful friendships i’ve made. I’m moved by the way each of us was brave enough to open up.. It feels a privilage and makes me more commited in my own work to lean into my own struggles as I know we’re all in it together. This is the power of sharing your creativity.

Sam x