Have you ever taken yourself on a solo artist's date? I love this idea from Julia Cameron, author of The Artist's Way.

An artist’s date can be as grand or as low-key as you choose. I like to think of it as simply taking the time to nurture your creativity - something which can quickly fall by the wayside if you’re also selling your creations and building a business.

We take the time to look after our health with a yoga class, walk or nutritious meal; or to look after our family or pets, so by my reckoning it makes sense that we should also take the time to look after our creative spirit!

Your artist’s date could involve going out somewhere or trying something new, or it could involve embarking on a new project, just for the fun of it! Personally, I’ve recently started a lovely little embroidery project. Sewing isn’t something I’ve done since I was a child, and I definitely don’t plan to make a business out of this, but I’ve been loving taking a few hours in front of the TV in the evening, or on a Sunday afternoon, to slowly work on this task. It doesn’t come naturally to me, and so I find I get completely engrossed and it’s a very mindful way to get back in touch with my artistic side, without the pressure of producing something to sell!

I’ve outlined below 6 ideas for your own artist’s date - let me know if you decide to try one of them!

Artist’s date ideas

1. Nature Walk & Sketching Session: I love to get out in nature, it really makes me feel alive. Take a leisurely stroll through a nearby park or nature reserve. Bring along a sketchbook and pencils to capture the beauty of your surroundings. Let the sights, sounds, and smells of nature inspire you.

2. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery: Spend a day exploring a local museum or art gallery. Take your time absorbing the various displays, allowing them to ignite new ideas and perspectives within your own creative process. With my background in archaeology, I really love getting inspired by the artifacts I see in museums!

3. Creative Writing Hour: Find a cozy spot at a café, library, or your favorite writing nook. Pick a topic and take your journal to immerse yourself in a writing session. You could get inspired by a scene you see out of the window or other customers in the cafe. Let your thoughts flow freely as you explore different writing prompts or simply jot down your inner musings.

4. Photo Walk: This is one of my favourite’s because I love to get out and about with my camera - I find it really helps me live in the moment and connect with my environment around me. You could explore different neighborhoods, landscapes, or even just pick a colour and see what you see as you wander.

5. Bake a Cake (or whatever takes your fancy!): Baking is such a great way to get into the moment and it’s the ultimate act of creative love when you end up with something delicious too! I find baking something which you knead like bread quite therapeutic, but equally a chocolate brownie will go down just as well!

6. Book onto a Workshop: As well as running my own jewellery workshops, I love taking creative workshops too. It’s a great way to try your hand at a new medium and often it’s really fun to spend a few hours with some new people bouncing ideas of each other!

Remember, the key is to approach these artist's dates with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment and embrace the joy of creative exploration.