How do you manage to balance your creative life with your family commitments? I’ve been a ‘hobby’ painter for years, but since the first COVID lockdown, I have taken it way more seriously and have reached a point where it’s all I want to do. I’m genuinely thrilled by what is happening at the end of the brush, but I am increasingly aware of the cost of hours and hours spent in my shed rather than with my wife and son. My desire to create feels like a compulsion, and I’m struggling to work out whether it’s the purpose of my life or some kind of mental illness. I’m in my 50s and still have a real job. I’m realistic about the unlikelihood of ever being able to paint full-time. But I believe, as much as I believe in anything, that this is the real thing and is of value. I want to spend every hour I can exploring this world. Any thoughts you have would be very welcome.
JOHN @ Issue no. 318