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New Year, New Goals!

Writer's picture: Claire CrawfordClaire Crawford


The Christmas break is the perfect chance for me to pause, reflect on the past year, and start thinking about the year to come. This helps me remain focused and grow both as an artist and as an individual.




EVENTS

Last year, I chose to shift my focus away from participating in markets to allocate more time for working on larger pieces, and increase my exhibition submissions. Although I miss the markets, I am confident that this was the right decision for both me and my business.


The time I freed up for creating larger exhibition pieces was soon consumed by an exciting new idea, and I concentrated on launching a new venture: Drink and Draw events. The plan is to move between different venues, offering Drink and Draw experiences that give people the chance to explore drawing in a safe and enjoyable setting. My first event took place at Conisbrough Castle in November, in collaboration with English Heritage, where I conducted this workshop for their members. We had a fantastic time, and I truly enjoyed sharing the joy of drawing. It was so successful that I've been booked for another workshop in May. Additionally, I've been scouting fun and exciting venues for more Drink and Draw events and was thrilled when locations like Blackpool Zoo, Wild Wings, and Poppywood Alpaca Farm expressed interest. I'm incredibly excited to collaborate with these wonderful venues to offer workshops that provide a fun and unique way to learn drawing. My first event for 2025 is scheduled for 22nd February at Blackpool Zoo, and tickets are available for purchase now. More events will be added throughout the year, so if you haven't subscribed to my newsletter, do so now to ensure you don't miss out.




MATERIALS




For 2024, I committed to not purchasing new materials unless absolutely necessary and instead utilising what I already had. I'm pleased to announce that I achieved this goal. In fact, I still possess so many art supplies that I intend to extend this commitment into 2025.


Recently, I've started experimenting with charcoal from the wood burner to further minimise my consumerism. This year I'm eager to discover more natural materials that I can use to create new and intriguing artwork.

My completed Tiger picture, 'The Leap,' looks stunning in its frame, and you would never guess it was crafted on old printing paper that was headed for the bin.




EDUCATION

In 2024, I aimed to expand my skill set and have occasionally engaged with my illustration course, though I haven't committed substantial time to it, which is somewhat disappointing. However, with numerous other commitments, I recognise the importance of being kind to myself and allowing time to relax. I plan to gradually progress with my course and take advantage of the fantastic free portrait courses offered by Raw Umber Studios whenever possible, as it's always enjoyable to explore something new.


There were many things I had planned for 2024 that didn't happen. I was eager to start filming online drawing sessions accessible via YouTube. This idea isn't completely forgotten, just on hold for now, to be revisited later, along with the possibility of offering private one-on-one drawing sessions and small group sessions from a future home studio. It would also be fantastic to take 'Drink and Draw' on a UK tour and perhaps even a world tour! That's the wonderful thing about life and having dreams, isn't it? They give us something to focus on, and the excitement that one day these dreams might become reality. If you know of a venue perfect for a Drink and Draw event, or if you want to add some creativity to a private event, why not get in touch?




Here's to making 2025 a fun and creative year!

Claire x



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I am a true lover of all creatures great and small. Everything about them sparks my interest and inspires me. From the majestic peacefulness of horses to the manic panic of a bumble bee.

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