Olywn was born in Toronto. As her parents were missionaries, she grew up in different cultures including India where she spent the first six years of her life. Her main influences are of different cultures and spirituality . Olywn has a degree in art and education, and has both taught as well as exhibited her works of art.

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." Pablo Picasso

I believe that we were all created to be creative beings, driven to express ourselves as individuals in unique ways.Let yourself be creative.

There are many different motivations for creating and there are numerous ways to develop that creative self in each of us.

Ask yourself a few simple questions before your next creative endeavours or work of art to increase your awareness.

• ·Why do I create?
• What makes me want to create?
• How can I make something out of nothing?
• How do I feel when I work on my art?
• What gives me the most satisfaction (eg the final product)?
• How does the comments of others affect me?
• Why do I like painting, drawing or working in this or that media?
• How do I get new ideas?
• What inspires me the most?
• Which do I love more, the creation or the creative process?
• Who do I create for?
• How does the way I work change over time?
• Am I growing as an artist?

Getting Started:

• Give yourself time.
• Find a comfortable, quiet space that is your own and promotes your creativity.
• Be prepared and gather all the necessary equipment and materials first, so you will not be interrupted.
• Listen to music that encourages relaxation and creativity.
• Read books.
• Keep a journal to jot down ideas and sketches.
• Visit art galleries to see what others are doing.
• Experiment with new ideas and techniques.
• Spend time outdoors exploring nature ie look at the shapes and colours of natural objects.
• Talk to other people with similar interests to share ideas. As an adult artist I feel I do my best work and enjoy the process more when I allow myself to relax and be absorbed in the moment. When I create from the heart I am free to be intuitive and spontaneous. Let go of the inhibitions and controls that the maturing process brings with it.
• Be fully involved in what you are doing-heart, mind and soul.
• Give it your love, care and attention.
• Don't let mistakes and obstacles get you upset- you can make them into happy accidents.
• Learn to enjoy new challenges with a positive attitude-a good feeling instead of bad.
• Use your age as an advantage to how you see the world.
• Learn to use all your five senses.

Make every effort to always include some form of creative expression every day eg doodle, jot down a poem, bake, make a card, dance, daydream I hope that learning to be creative brings you as much joy, pleasure and insight as it has brought me over the years. If you have any questions on being creative or sharing your ideas Write me.

If you would like to find out how to paint a still life, click here.