The Carousel

The Carousel in Nottingham has become a bit of a lifeline. It is a creative co-working space I have been using regularly and honestly it has been huge for my mental health. The BCT job is great and I do head down to London sometimes but most of my work is from home. As a woman in her mid-thirties living with and caring for her mum, that can get isolating quickly. Having somewhere to go each day, to sit near other people, have small conversations and feel part of something makes a difference I did not fully appreciate until I needed it.

Earlier this year they ran a screen printing workshop which I absolutely loved. Screen printing is a technique where ink is pushed through a fine mesh screen onto paper or fabric, with certain areas blocked out using a stencil so only parts of the design transfer. It is hands-on and slightly imperfect in the best way. I love the process, layering colours, aligning frames, lifting the screen to reveal the print underneath. There is something deeply satisfying about making multiples by hand. It felt playful, creative and just fun. Another reminder that being around art and people is something I genuinely need.

I have also exhibited some of my photography again, this time at Surface Gallery for their Postcard Show. Mum submitted to it too and had some of her paintings on display, which was really lovely. And I have been getting down to Sugar Stealers when I can, where I recently had a go at sewing on an actual machine for the first time. My sewing skills are rather questionable to say the least but that is absolutely fine.