Introducing The Intuitive Art Hideaway - A Journey From Challenges to Creativity
Welcome to my The Intuitive Art Hideaway Studio creation chronology journey, part 2. In this blog post, I want to take you on a reflective journey through the past six months, from July 2023 to January 2024. It's been a rollercoaster of determination, unexpected challenges, new beginnings, and moments of deep gratitude. Part 1 here.
Determined (July 2023)
Let's start with July. Throughout that month, my focus was on turning my dreams into a plan. I crafted a document called The Hideaway Fundraising Sponsorship Proposal, explaining why and how people can help me, an artist, achieve my goals. I shared this dream with a few close friends, telling them my uncertainty about how to make it a reality but I had a very strong desire for it. It was a humbling moment when some wonderfully kind and generous friends contributed to my campaign. Their support meant the world to me, and I felt blessed and thankful.
I had my eye on a house just a few doors away from where I live. It was perfect because it was close and within walking distance.
Dodging the Wrong House Drama (August 2023)
On August 1st, the day I was supposed to sign the rental contract and receive the keys to move in, things took a surprising turn. It was the long-awaited day for the keys handover + signing of the tenancy agreement after weeks of negotiation with the landlord & agent. The house was inspected, cleaned, and ready for me to move in.
However, the landlord unexpectedly added an unusual (& unfair) clause to the contract, at the last minute. It states that in the event of anyone's demise within the property, the tenant would be held responsible for six months' rent due to potential impacts on the property's desirability. This clause felt uncomfortable to me as death is a natural occurrence that cannot be predicted or controlled. After consulting with a lawyer friend, I requested the landlord to remove the clause. I mentioned that death is a natural and unfortunate event, and nobody can predict it. It's not a crime that will impact the property value. Surprisingly, the landlord took my request the wrong way, promptly canceled the rental, and accused me of intending to let my mother pass away in her house! She mentioned that my request for the clause removal confirms her suspicion regarding the purpose of my rental. It's disheartening to face such accusations when all I wanted was a fair and respectful rental agreement. The property agent has then promptly refunded my deposit in full, apologized for the whole incident and promised to continue to look out for a suitable house for me within the area. There wasn't any opportunity for renegotiations.
It was quite dramatic, and not getting the house left me feeling a bit down. I went back to the drawing board, processed the whole fiasco, journaled, painted, cried, dried up my tears, let go of the house, and got myself ready to move on. Everyone reassured me that this is a blessing, as I hadn't signed the rental agreement, and it allowed me to discover the mismatch in the landlord's personality.
I remembered back in early July, I had a prayer pact with God, saying, "Dear God, if this house isn't meant for me, please take it away. If it is, help me get it." That was the process I use when it comes to house selections. Little did I know that it would lead me to kickstart the crowdfunding campaign before that unfolded. Seems like God knows how to motivate me to take action.
I am blessed indeed, and I still believe I am in flow with the universe.
A New Hope (September 2023)
In September, I shifted my focus to finding the perfect studio space. I came across a place just a short walk from my home, and it seemed like it held the promise of becoming 'the one.' What captured my heart was its serene location, facing a green patch that exuded the tranquility I envisioned for my creative sanctuary.
I maintained transparency about my ambitious plans for the space with the property agent, a delightful lady with a shared passion for art. She even asked about my art workshop prices, as she also expressed a keen interest in art workshops. I felt really hopeful for a positive reply from the owner. I'd requested the agent's assistance in persuading the landlord to seal the deal by November.
I eagerly awaited a positive response, believing that this could be the start of a new chapter. Looking back, I realized that the disappointment I faced in August was a necessary detour that led me to a better house. Now, thinking about it, that hiccup was a blessing in disguise. It made me realize the landlord wasn't a good fit. It redirected me to better opportunities, like this one in September.
As I reflect, there's a feeling of thankfulness. The journey keeps going, and I’m not giving up.
A Decision to Relax in a Sweden Vacation (October 2023)
Securing the rental for the house went smoothly, and with the deposit settled, I decided to take a break from the studio project. It was a moment to relax, clear my mind, and open myself to new ideas.
What was planned as a peaceful trip to Sweden turned into a journey of unexpected lessons and insights. Amidst the breathtaking Northern Lights, scenic hikes, and art exhibitions, challenges arose. The sudden passing of Ginger, The Hatchery Place's resident cat, and caring for Kevin’s elderly mum added unexpected layers to the trip. These experiences prompted contemplation about life changes and insights about future possibilities.
It felt like I was being prepared for a new chapter, with my mum soon to be living closer in the studio. While Ginger's passing marked a somber moment, I took the necessary time to process through my grief. Strangely, it appeared to lay the foundation for this new phase in my life. Taking care of her had been a significant part of my routine at The Hatchery Place, and now, I sensed a shift that would free up my schedule to focus on my new studio. More about the highlights of my Sweden trip here in this IG post.
Getting back to action in November & December 2023
Resuming the rhythm of my routine in November and December 2023 seems to bring a triumphant return to action for The Intuitive Art Hideaway project. With the keys in hand and the deposit sorted, I immersed myself in daily painting within the empty studio. The simple act of painting every day in the still-empty studio sends a powerful message - to myself and maybe even to the universe. It's like declaring, "I'm not giving up. I'm not backing down. Here I am, an artist, making art in this studio!" I have this strong belief that this studio will come together, but it'll happen in its own timing.
By lucky chance, Ikea furniture, on sale, found its way into the space, setting the stage for a welcoming atmosphere. The addition of an Ikea dining table, expertly set up with Kevin & Linda's (our lovely coliving resident of The Hatchery Place) help, became the centerpiece for my art playshops starting in December 2023. I also added plants and rugs to the studio, as I wanted to create an inviting setting for playshops. The space, now transformed and ready, awaited the creative energies of participants.
I started talking again about my dream to people I meet, friends and acquaintances. One thing I realized - that sharing my journey with others proved powerful, sparking energy that manifested sponsors. The sparks ignited connections and opportunities, affirming the influential role of storytelling in garnering support and collaboration for my artistic project. It also reaffirmed my confidence and faith in my own vision.
On top of that, I successfully organized several solo retreat bookings, where participants opted to stay in our creative coliving home, The Hatchery Place. They would spend their days painting in my studio and return to rest at the coliving home. These retreats not only gave me confidence but also underlined that The Hatchery Place is a practical accommodation choice for my retreat participants, alongside the ArtBnB room I'm creating in The Intuitive Hideaway upstairs. Check out my latest Retreat offer here.
In the upcoming playshop showcase, I'll highlight the initial playshops held in the designated area, emphasizing the collaborative and creative spirit that blossomed. While some rooms are still awaiting to be setup, I will be addressing the need for funding with my campaign, and sharing my vision for these spaces soon!
Now (January 2024)
Currently, the plan is to welcome my mother to The Intuitive Art Hideaway between February and March 2024. This choice marks a significant chapter, aiming to provide care for her while adding to the warm atmosphere of the home studio.
As I finish up this part of the story, I want to thank you all for being a part of my journey. I want to thank especially Mel, Ai Jou, Bani, Kevin and Johnny. Your support has meant the world to me, helping me overcome challenges, believing in my dreams and helping me build this creative sanctuary and art studio. I'm inviting you to stick around for more adventures. There'll be more stories and updates coming your way in the future.
The Intuitive Art Hideaway project proves the power of determination and the unwavering pursuit of a dream. And hey, if you're feeling inspired and want to be a part of this journey, consider sponsoring my fundraising campaign. Your individual support is a beacon of hope for me as an artist. Together, you'll be playing a crucial role in helping me reach my artistic aspirations. Thank you for being a part of my vision!!
How about you? Are you also an artist building the studio of your dreams now? I would love to hear your journey!
SHARE YOUR STORY IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
