My admiration for writing truly began halfway through studying my 3-year undergraduate degree in Fine Art. For as long as I can remember I’ve had a fascination with language and words, not only for how they sound but for how they look too. I soon realised the extent to which the interaction of language can communicate, express, and impact much superior to anything else. I became drawn to creating works of art surrounding text, causing reactions of all emotion. After completing my undergraduate, I challenged myself on whether I progressed my flair for writing or continued with my art; art being something that was more familiar and comfortable to me.
After much consideration I made the decision to take the ‘leap of faith’ and apply for a Masters in Creative Writing, later finding out that I had been accepted. I instantly fell in love with poetry and emotive language, this admiration has only strengthened since. I finished my masters in the September of 2020, though have continued to stay focused, encouraged and supported by monthly ‘Poetry Meets’ with other poets and writers.
The subjects that I prefer to write about evolve around memories and landscape and forming a sense of romanticism around a place or recollection. I intend to capture a moment, a snapshot, situating the reader in the chosen environment, or feeling. Whenever I compose a piece of writing, I hope that the audience can individually relate in some way, by provoking a familiarity.
I endeavour to further improve in my writing and continue to grow as a writer. Engaging in my interests and surroundings, as well as those who share an enthusiasm for writing themselves – these are all elements that drive me to develop my work and aid my future prospects.
Barcelona was my last foreign holiday, the Spanish City is one that I had dreamt about visiting; in June 2019 this dream came true. I strolled through the Gothic Quarter, down Las Ramblas, explored narrow, dim lit streets and stumbled across hidden, authentic family run places to eat, all matched with an incomparable atmosphere and good sangria.
I found myself lost for words when being face to face with the Sagrada Familia; the architecture was more beautiful and astonishing than I had ever imagined, as was Barcelona itself. I experienced real ‘goosebumps’ moments that kept happening over and over again with every turn. Barcelona stole a piece of my heart, and I will definitely be visiting again.
The aspects I appreciate most regarding visiting another country, or any new place at that, is the overwhelming excitement that instantly surrounds me. Similar to that ‘hot air’ feeling you get when you initially step off of a plane.
I look forward to finding my bearings and navigating my way around my new temporary ‘home’, for the unknown starts becoming more familiar and therefore the experience even richer. Whether I’m staying at a small retreat, or a large resort, I jump at the opportunity to explore more of the part of the world in which I’m visiting, taking in all that the area has to offer. From encountering different ways of life, the cuisine, and the ambience. I love becoming further acquainted with different cultures, the history and attractions of a place.
