Authenticity

Authenticity is a concept us humans are trying to fully realise for most of our lives.

Whilst the word has been mostly utilised in fashion houses to denote some idea of 'it's the good stuff', our own understanding is muddy, and apparently grows clearer now and then in response to your brain leveling up from some event and thinking slightly differently.

I would go as far to say, authenticity is everything. When all is said and done, when everything is stripped away, how authentic to your true self are you? Really?

It is amazing how well you can fool yourself into thinking your are living how you want. Almost completely. But, there will forever be the smallest kernel, an atom of your being that knows the truth, and that will sit under the skin, quietly driving through impulse...and generally instigating bad decisions. It's not you. It's the bit of you that knows you're not living how you want. And the only solution is to live how you want, which is a pretty good thing.

There is so much suggestion on how to live. Do this, do that. Be this, be that. You can indulge in as much of this as your desire, but it is only inspiration. You are the one true thing and you be that marvellous, ridiculous spectacle of a human being if that's who you are. You be that late night fridge raider, that sky watcher, that pokemon card collector, whatever the hell you want to be that gives you joy. You be that person. Just don't be an arsehole. Because if your truest desire is to hurt someone else then you need to do a bit of work on yourself and find out what that is so you can put that to bed and come join the party.

Until now I have been using AI to help me write the blog posts around art and mindfulness. At the time I thought it was a good use to share things that would help others on their journey and to create a free resource to help people unlock the wonders of creativity for our mental health. And honestly, I'm a mum and I have a job as well as this, so I felt like it was the only way I'd have time. As time goes on, and AI becomes increasingly problematic, I'm going to stop doing that. Sure, I won't be able to share posts very often, and they might be shorter, but that's ok. What's the rush? Really? We're pushed to think that we need everything right now and maybe it's actually better for our sweet little minds to enjoy the ride, to sow, to tend, and to watch the magic happen.

I am going to keep the existing content. It's done, and for every person it goes on to inspire, that makes things a bit better.

I've stripped back some of the offerings in my shop, I'm keeping the designs I really like for now, but will see how it goes.

There are 2 handmade prints for sale and more coming soon. Keep your eyes peeled and keep being your authentic selves cause that is the best self you can be. Big love.

If you like my vibe, please do take a look at my shop, if you're lucky you might find some of my handmade art there. You can also support via my buymeacoffee page. You can make a one off contribution, or sign up to a £2 a month membership.