Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.

It's at this time of year that, as adults, we start thinking about New Year's Resolutions and start dreaming of how this year's going to be better than last year. The trouble with resolutions is that they may be quite difficult to sustain for any length of time, so let's just be honest with ourselves; we can hope to make changes... Have you ever noticed that children don't make New Year's Resolutions? They're just happy living in the moment. Makes you think, doesn't it?

The thing I've resolved to promote in the studio this year is that us grown ups need to play, but also need to think more like children. If we just let go a bit more and lose our selves in the art of making, we'll enjoy the experience infinitely more! Instead of watching your child or grandchild paint a piece of pottery, why not paint one yourself as well? I reckon that we don't paint alongside our little chums because we are afraid of failure, and yet we use the excuse that children need our help!

Well, Picasso had us sussed; kids are already 'artists', so they don't require our assistance in their artistic endeavours. But we do need to relax and take a moment to breathe.

If you resolve to do one thing this year, make it to lose yourself in a calming creative workshop; don't fret about getting it wrong, just enjoy the experience! And a happy & healthy New Year to you!