I mean, really loving life… It's a hard call with so much going on in our lives. And what does that even mean?
Our lives are full of so many memorable moments, and it can be hard to remember that even the small ones count in a big way. I try to capture some of these in my artwork.
Whether they make you smile, cry or laugh so hard you pee your pants, each moment fits together like a jigsaw, shaping our lives.
I attended the youngest child’s graduation on Friday. It was a strange moment of realisation that you do not have to think of school again. When the kids were little, one stated, “I never want to live to 50; that’s too old.” Now, in my fifties, my new goal is to prove to them that it’s really pretty awesome.
However, during the graduation ceremony, I realised I had gone from a hard young woman comfortable walking home in the back streets alone in the city to crying at the mere sound of the speaker’s voice trembling with emotion.
I never wanted kids right up until the moment they were born. Now, I think I may even be more excited than they are about where they are heading in life.
With age also comes excellent self-revelations. I used to wonder why some people would react negatively to me for no reason that I could fathom….one day, during a fun conversation, an acquaintance pretended to be me in a way that perplexed me. I couldn’t get it out of my head. I have started getting out and about by myself, going to exhibitions and openings. I spotted a couple of photos of myself on social media. Usually, I am the one taking the pictures, so I have never noticed before…..I was trying to think of my conversation, and I certainly was not angry.
I discovered that I have a resting, angry face. Not resting bitch face, I seriously looked angry.
So what does this mean? It means that if you see me with a strange look on my face, it may be me wandering around trying to train my smile reflex hahaha
But something weird has happened…. I have never felt happier in my life. Thought I was going crazy till I read this
"This phenomenon, known as the facial feedback hypothesis, suggests that the physical act of smiling triggers positive emotions within the brain, even if the smile is initially forced or insincere. Over time, this feedback loop can lead to genuine feelings of happiness and contentment."
This is where art can come in.
It gives you a reason to smile. It reminds you of great times, and great memories, and it also reminds you of what you love. And isn’t that worth sharing with your favourite people?
These drawings are just the start of a new series about grabbing hold of life with both hands and jumping in. It is based on a young lady who exudes passion, fun, and movement, Peachyskaterr(Demi Jenkins). She is an Aussie abroad, taking advantage of none other than retro rollerskating and dance, and taking the scene by storm.
She just quite simply looks like she is always having so much goddam fun!
