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At the beginning of this year, I set out to complete a painting for my mum.

She had requested flowers, butterflies and lots of colour! The canvas was quite large so I knew it was going to take a while… but thankfully, I’ve completed this art project!

Admittedly, I sometimes have the tendency to start projects that I don’t complete – but I was determined to finish this painting. I find it hard to justify dedicating time for my hobbies, particularly given the workload I have with my course subjects and work (can you relate?). It’s similar to reading for leisure - I tend to think that whenever I have spare time I have to be hustling for uni when in reality, it’s so important to dedicate time to doing the things you love.

Growing up, I dedicated so much time to drawing and painting – I remember thinking that when I grew up, I would do something creative. Despite focusing on my academics in the latter years of high school, I maintained my passion for art through undertaking Visual Arts as a Year 12 subject. I’m so thankful that I chose the subject (even with the harsh scaling) because I knew I would’ve been so much happier maintaining a connection with art.

Fast forward to university, there has been a steep decline in the time I dedicate to art. I go through waves of engaging with art only to suddenly forget it exists. I’m so glad my mum asked me to paint her something for her new home. I was able to first design the layout and colour scheme on Procreate (an art app), then bring to life this design on a canvas with acrylic paint and loose gold leaf.

Art is therapeutic to me – it distracts my mind from wandering and I’m able to hit the pause button on stress. When it comes to painting, I also love putting on a movie or TV show (or a fun music playlist) which is so enjoyable.

I believe one of the greatest gifts of humans is our ability to create art. I’m proud of my art and thankful that even if I take long breaks from it, I’m able to come back and truly cherish the experience.