Life brings with it many highs and lows — as humans, we all deal with adversity and personal trauma differently.
As I launch the first phase of Luddington Creative, I reflect on how I got here, and the various personal and professional happenings that have contributed to my life adventure.
The arts in all forms have always been part of my world — whether assisting as a little girl in my local panto or enjoying the wonders of an exhibition — art has transported me to other places.
On a recent adventure, post a life changing event, I combined my two passions — sailing and art. It is not the first time I have drawn on my “defaults” to help me navigate tricky times.
Having successfully crossed the Atlantic in a boat, my destination was a country that has inspired many great creatives — the lush landscape of Antigua. It is truly a tropical paradise that awakens every sense.
After 27 days at sea, arriving there by boat was just the beginning of this art adventure.
Whilst 1500 nautical miles off shore, photography was our mode of documenting the magic of the ocean.
From the Doldrums to a torn sail, this creative practice allowed us to record our daily time on the big blue. Having worked with marine photographers in the past, it was time for us and the hearty crew we were accompanied by to get snapping!
With 27 days footage, we were able to share our experiences with family and friends but also, as with any art form, our photographs can have a dual purpose – as well as documenting our adventures, they can serve as inspiration.
I, for the first time in my life, indulged myself in “taking photos”. I did it for myself, and I loved it.
As we sailed from the Canaries to the Caribbean, I was also able to indulge myself in another private passion — writing!
Here I was, in the middle of the ocean, amongst the elements, and when not on a watch, I was using my down time to be creative, yes — me! As someone who has always guided creatives, for the first time, I was in a place where I could “test the creative water” myself. It reinforced my admiration and support of all the arts practitioners out there. It also reminded me of the many sailors, such as Joshua Slocum and Bill Tilman, who wrote of their time at sea.
Art and adventure are the perfect partners. One leads to the other. They inspire and encourage one another. These are the very foundation of which I set this business up, to inspire and encourage anyone in life to follow the work journey they want.
The Caribbean and its various islands have always inspired me. Now arriving by boat, I was ready to embark on my next adventure – traverse the island on foot, and discover local art. In doing so, I was also defeating the arthritis that riddles my leg and absorbing the island sunshine.
Walking around the island was a feast for the senses. Visually stunning, it creates the perfect canvas for those living on the Island. The paintings and sculptures I discovered did not disappoint.
As I write this piece, I reflect on this six week adventure and the creative feast. My two defaults intertwined. 3500 nautical miles travelled by sea, over 1000 photos taken, various ramblings written and several galleries visited – I feel very inspired and very encouraged. And with that, I launch Luddington Creative, embodying adventure and art!
