Artists Studio Tours - Barbados 2024 - A Self-Guided Tour in Barbados

 

The Artists Studio Tours Barbados 2024 is Here!

Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant art scene of Barbados, wandering through artists studios brimming with creativity. Meet the passionate artists and witness their techniques while you discover one-of-a-kind pieces that you can cherish.  This self-guided tour isn't just about art; it's an immersive journey into the heart of Bajan culture.

I have put together some tips to help you make the most of your visit as you embark on your artistic adventure

Choose Your Studios to visit:

• Immerse yourself in diverse mediums like painting, sculpture, textiles, and jewelry - there are 44 Artists in 27 studios.
• Check out the online brochure if you have not yet picked one up you get to see examples of the artists work - Follow your interests! Explore as many of the studios as you can!
• All of the studios are free to enter and the artists are happy to chat and talk about their work.

Planning:

• Download the map - Grab a digital or physical map from the event website to chart your course.
• Pace Yourself - Spread your visits across the two weekends (February 3rd & 4th, March 23rd & 24th) to savor the experience.
• Studios are open 11am-5pm, so relax and arrive when inspiration strikes - artists have included their telephone numbers if you need to make additional arrangements.

Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Pack Light: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and consider a bag for any treasures you find.
• Connect with the Artists and engage in conversation, ask questions, and learn about their creative process.
• Support Local Art: If a piece speaks to you, consider purchasing it as a unique souvenir and a meaningful contribution to the community.

Bonus 

• Combine studios with sightseeing - Plan your route so you can take pit stops on the way - take in one of the many beautiful beaches.  There are artists studios in most of the Parishes
• Fuel your creativity, remember to take time to have something to eat and enjoy delicious Bajan cuisine.
• Share your experience and use #ASTB2024 to connect with fellow art lovers and artists and showcase your finds.

Google Map Directions

Remember, this is your artistic adventure. Wander freely, be inspired, and bring home memories and art that will forever connect you to the magic of Barbados!


Before You Go check out the Art Resource Hub:

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Words, Creativity and Art Events

Looking forward to having you join us in the Arts and Wellness Cafe.

I take you through the word of the week and look at ways in which we can use the inspiration around us in our work.  Who are your favorite artists and what influence do they have on your growth?  I share some of mine too.

The other things that we look at in this episode is:

• Art journal process -  we look at how we can explore the different effects we can get with the supplies that we have including graphite, and water-soluble graphite tints.
• Fabric Art projects and resist dyeing sneak peak!
• Question and Tip for the week to encourage and motivate you - What would be your dream collaboration?
• Arts and Artists spotlight, lots of things are happening in Barbados with the Artists Studio Tours happening over the weekend - 3rd and 4th of February.

Take a self-guided tour of the many artists' studios scattered throughout Barbados. Meet the talented artists, view their galleries, and bring home a beautiful piece of local art to cherish. In addition, this tour provides the bonus of experiencing the beauty of Barbados itself!  Hope you can join us in this adventure!

Before you go:

Check out my online course - Filling the Creative Well

Material Musings: Weaving Big and Dyeing with Wax Resist

 

Welcome to Material Musings! This week, we're diving into two exciting textile adventures: a larger weaving project and wax resist dyeing with tea and clay.

Weaving in a Bigger Way

I originally created a series of smaller looms and wanted to increase the size so created a larger one from the wood from a canvas frame.  When weaving on a larger scale you can explore the possibilities that come with using a wider loom and thicker yarns. I have used the yarn I currently have and found ways to increase the size which you will see.  I hope you are inspired to try some of the techniques for yourself.

Wax Resist

I have been experimenting with wax resist techniques for a while now and I will show you an easy way to apply it to your fabric in various patterns and creates a barrier that prevents dye from reaching certain areas. You can create stunning designs, and unexpected color combinations.

Wax resist and clay dyed

We'll be using natural and readily available materials like tea and clay as our dyes! This allows you to experiment with unique color palettes and textures. from the earthy browns from the tea and clay, and shades of pink from avocado pits – the options and combinations are endless!

Join the Fun!

Come join me in this Material Musings adventure!  Be inspired, learn new skills, and create something truly unique and beautiful.

So, grab your favorite cup of tea (or maybe some clay!), and get ready to join me in Material Musings! I can't wait to share this journey with you, and don't forget to share your own textile creations with me on social media . I'd love to see what you come up with!

8 Ways to Recharge your Creativity

How have you been feeling creatively?  We can sometimes feel creatively parched and need a spark to help us 'refill the wells'.  Are you looking for ways to jumpstart your creativity and hit the ground running with new and innovative ideas? Here are some 8 tips to help you get started:

1. Set your sights. Whether it's a new creative idea, a writing challenge, or simply picking up a new skill, having a goal guides your creative compass. Try something new. There are usually quite a few online challenges for you to sink your teeth into, I will also be sharing a Free 12 week course called 'Kickstart Your Creativity Series' in a couple of weeks so sign up to my course platform to be notified. Sign up HERE

2. Make time for daydreaming. Schedule dedicated brain-sparking sessions. Brainstorm in the morning light, doodle during your lunch break, or let your mind wander after dark. In my latest Arts and Wellness Cafe I look at one of the Words for the Month - Stillness In our stillness we can find treasures.

3. Shake things up. Ditch the familiar. Try a new art form, write with a different voice, or explore a tool you've never touched. New experiences unlock hidden creative talents.

4. Find your inspiration tribe. Soak up the creative energy of others. Follow inspiring artists, attend workshops, or join a local group of fellow dreamers. Join us in the Creative Community on the course platform - Check it out HERE

5. Disconnect to reconnect. Sometimes, the best ideas bloom in the quiet. Take a digital detox, go for a nature walk, or lose yourself in a good book. Unplug and let your mind wander. Read that book that you have been promising yourself.

6. Tame the mental chatter. Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you focus and quiet your inner critic. A calm mind is a fertile ground for creativity. Take out your needles and thread and do some slow stitching - You can pick up some inspiration in Material Musings

7. Embrace the unknown. Step outside your comfort zone. Learn a new dance, travel to a new place, or take a class in something totally unfamiliar. New experiences jumpstart innovation.

8. Just start. Perfectionism is the creativity killer. Don't overthink it, just dive in. Pick up a pen, play with some paint supplies, doodle, create with recycled materials, do some slow stitching. The act of creation itself is the magic spark that ignites imagination.

Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. Keep experimenting, keep exploring, and keep feeding your curiosity. The well of wonder is always waiting to be refilled, and the greatest creations start with a single step. Now go forth and create!

Check out my course Filling the Creative Well for more creative inspiration