Why process-based Art workshops matter more than perfect outcomes

As a creative person who runs a small business yet relies on my creative energy to fuel projects, workshops, and my own motivation, art can collide with perfectionism, leaving me feeling stuck on a blank page or deeply scrutinising whether my work is good enough.

So whilst I used my calligraphy and lettering knowledge to build the foundations of my business, art was not something I’ve ever actually pursued for income. Art has always been, for me, a way to switch off or get lost in my own thoughts.

With this in mind, I’ve created a few videos on how I explore my art, musings and expression, but have never created a structure around it. I didn’t think it needed to, yet also recognise there aren’t many classes that exist - purely for exploration. Everything seems to be about achieving a finished result, and as someone who facilitates art in the community, I see firsthand the benefits of such workshops that allow for expressive freedom over perfectionism.

That’s why I sat down with my pen and paper and began to scribble down what would be the foundations of my Han’made Art Club.

Offering a space, where you can pick up and return to the same workshop time and time again, each time offering something new. A place where we won’t be chasing results or rushing through projects.

Not only will it be e a space where you can slow down, reflect and explore what you are truly seeking in life through your art, but a place for expression, curiosity and wonder.

Through my casual Han’made art club exercises, participants will be able to explore an array of art topics that will be suitable for all levels and not only serve as a spark of creativity for adults, but equally a great starting point for children too.

For me, I want to offer a space where creatives can feel like they have unlocked their creativity, and feel in a safe space to explore their materials, in the hopes that it inspires people to reconnect with their own curiosity and intuition.

Looking at my Daughter, I see someone who isn’t yet bound to the constraints of perfectionism. Someone who is excited by colour, exploration and the beauty in mark making. The same is to be said when working with the elderly community.

Both have this beautiful freeing creative energy that keeps them in the present moment. Moving their hands, working their minds and sharing stories and communication.

Yet as a creative adult, I freeze under the pressure to make something ‘good’.

The last few weeks have been a busy mix of workshops in the community (you can check out my latest one here), heavily concentrating on launching products for clients and working on the weekends with early get-ups. It’s been a case of very little time for art, and doing what was necessary whilst squeezing it all in before the half-term school break.

Speaking of half-term, I spent the week completely switched off and away from any thought of work.

Instead, I swapped my desk for the countryside and coast. A much-needed and restorative break away from the normal routine.

And after a few cream teas, a fair few miles walked, and no schedule to adhere to, I was soon itching to get back into the studio and connect with my work again.

Refreshed and with a renewed sense of energy, I began to potter about the studio and sort a few things here and there. Whilst doing so, I came to feel the pull to create my one-off workshops into an evergreen class that people can access time and time again. That will act as a wonderful exercise that is both explorative and reflective.

Which brings me back nicely to the beginning of this article. In the coming weeks, I will be recording and editing the material, amongst the beginnings of spring and what feels like the natural start to my business year.

If you would like a nosey into what running this kind of business looks like. You can do so, by watching my latest vlog here.

I hope you’ve had a lovely week. If you are amongst a creative project, or just starting one, please do let me know, as I love to hear what other creatives are up to 🥰

With love and creativity,

Hannah x

P.s. I loved this little quote from our lodge by the seaside. I’ll leave it here as a little cute reminder ✨