Art as a Refuge: A Quiet Place in a Chaotic World

There are seasons when the news cycle spins faster than we can keep up, when uncertainty presses in from all sides, and when our nervous systems—already worn thin—cry out for something softer, quieter, and more human. In such times, when the noise of the world feels overwhelming, many of us search for a place to rest—not just physically, but emotionally. We look for something that can offer grounding, a sense of calm, and a space to breathe. For me, creativity has always been that refuge.

Psychologists and researchers have long acknowledged what many of us know instinctively: that engaging in creative activity supports mental wellbeing. Making art—even simply being in the presence of art—can reduce stress, lower cortisol, and help regulate the nervous system. It invites us into a state of flow, where time softens and the constant noise of the world fades into the background.

Creativity is also an act of agency. In a world that often feels out of control, it allows us to shape something, however small. It reconnects us with the natural rhythms of curiosity, exploration, and wonder. And perhaps most importantly, it offers a place where we can be present with ourselves—without judgment, without performance, without needing to produce something perfect.

I believe we all need these quiet places.

Art is more than just a visual experience. It is an emotional one. It has the power to quiet the mind, soothe the nervous system, and offer a gentle invitation to pause. In the rush of daily life, we often forget to carve out space for stillness. But what if, instead of rushing to fill the silence with distractions, we embraced it—if only for a moment? There’s something powerful about sitting down with simple materials and making something by hand. The slow rhythm of mark-making, the feel of paper beneath my fingers, the quiet choices of layering colour and texture—it all offers a sense of grounding. It's a reminder that not everything needs to be rushed or solved. Some things just need to be felt. I’ve always been drawn to the natural world, where the rhythm of life moves at a slower pace. The way a quiet forest seems to hold its breath or how the movement of water can calm even the busiest mind. It’s this sense of stillness and connection that I seek to capture in my work.

In my Hidden Worlds series, I strive to create pieces that serve as anchors—a gentle touchstone for reflection and rest. These are in the Gallery on my website.

My new work in progress ‘Holding Space -Mini-Meditations’ are collages, calmly and reflectvely crafted from handmade Gelli prints and layered with natural textures. These are more than just images; they’re spaces to land. To pause. To be. as I shall ‘be’ whilst working on them. When I make art, I am reminded of the importance of holding space—not just in my work, but in my life. I believe that by bringing this sense of intentionality into our homes, we can foster a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.

Art as a refuge isn’t about escaping the world—it’s about creating space within it. It’s about finding balance, even amidst chaos, and offering ourselves permission to step back, breathe, and simply be. Whether it’s picking up a brush, walking through a gallery, or simply taking a moment to notice the way light moves across a surface—these are acts of care. Tiny, radical gestures that remind us: there is still beauty. There is still meaning. There is still time to breathe.

If you're seeking a moment of calm, or a creative spark to hold onto, I invite you to visit my gallery pages and browse.

Not as an escape, but as a refuge.