Hey Reader, this week I shared on my socials the very first page artwork I had created in my new handmade art journal (from Lou at Boundtolovethem - not sponsored BTW!)

Later, I reflected on this, remembering when I COULD NOT just go in and do something on the first page, or use the good paper, or make art in the brand-new journal...

The fear of ‘wasting’ the good stuff was enough to stop me before I even began.

I know I am not alone Reader. The dreaded blank page is one of the biggest barriers for folk starting in their creative arts practice.

So why do we clam up when faced with a simple blank canvas? What is actually going on?

When we are feeling anxious, our brain literally closes off to creativity.

We can’t be playful and curious when we're stuck in fear.

Instead, our survival instincts kick in — fight, flight, freeze — leaving no room for exploration or expression.

That’s why one of the first things we often need to unpack in creative work isn’t what we’re making — it’s how we approach the act of making.

Enter compassionate curiosity.

We create space when we meet our anxious thoughts with care instead of judgment.

Space to loosen up, space to play, and space to expand into our full creative selves.

But you NEED safety to find this space. And that is one of the reasons making art WITH people is so therapeutic, so positive for your growth, and so helpful in building your confidence.

To start moving forward with compassionate curiosity, you can start switching off fear by asking the following three questions:

1. Why do I feel nervous making art today? What is REALLY going on?
2. What are the possibilities that could eventuate today as I make some art?
3. How can I be gentle on myself as I work through this discomfort? This feeling isn't fixed, and I can move through it.

If you’d like more support, encouragement, and a safe online space to explore your creative and personal growth, you’re warmly invited to join the Permission to Play community group. We have our next live session in less than 12 hours.

We start at 8:00 am AEST Sunday, 27 April. Hit reply and I will send you the Zoom link so you can attend and see what it is like - no strings attached.

I hope you might come and do something that feeds your soul.

Until soon.

With Kindness,
Delphie Joy xox

PS: Remember, just reply, and I can send you the Zoom link. It's hard to explain how helpful the group is, but maybe this video will help share a little more...