Observation & Commentary
“Without art, the crudeness of reality would make the world unbearable.” -George Bernard Shaw
Samantha Humphreys
Art, Photography, Inspiration & Education
Featured
March 13, 2026
10 Essential Items for a Miniature Art Studio
I have been finding ‘stuff’ that I think would be great to add to my miniature studio and just kind of dumping it in. It’s an ongoing therapeutic task, as each item carries its unique charm and potential and fits nicely into its new role as beautiful object, subject, muse and inspiration. I have created small paintbrushes, miniature canvases and tiny easels that are perfect for bringing this project to life. Already, it is shaping up to be a convincing replica of a working art studio, reflecting the creativity and passion that artists nurture in their spaces. The benefit of an art studio, though, in all honesty, is that finding ‘stuff’ is easy as anything, and everything could be useful to an artist. From scraps of paper to bits of wood, even crumpled paper and debris. Every little thing can spark inspiration and lead to new ideas. This process of collecting and making has not only filled the studio but has also reignited my understanding of what truly makes a creative environment thrive. I have started compiling a list of items that an artist cannot live without, based on the true life story of , well, me! I have limited myself to a list of ten, with a little cheating of course because, really, ten? A ridiculous notion.
- Pencils. Obvious, but I mean many, many pencils. Pencils made of wood, made with charcoal. Pencils with colour, pencils that are mechanical and pencils that are not pencils at all, but are rubbers. Pencils in various shapes, some round, some hexagonal, and others triangular for ergonomic grip. Pencils of different grades for various artistic expressions, ranging from soft buttery lines to crisp, sharp marks. For writing, sketching, or colouring, a collection of pencils is essential for any creative. Watercolour pencils and a decent set of coloured pencils are seriously underestimated by many aspiring student artist.
- Brushes. Another obvious one, to be fair, the list in its entirety is obvious to most. Brushes of all sizes, watercolour brushes, acrylic brushes and some brushes in between that are used for everything from delicate work to broader strokes. Brushes for painting on walls, brushes for brushing away rubber debris, and also, boringly, a brush to sweep the floor and a brush that lives with a dustpan. In addition, there are specialised brushes for specific techniques: fan, round, flat, rigger and a chap called Filbert.
- Surfaces to paint on (paper, cardboard etc.). This is a never-ending possibility, I can’t begin to tell you how many surfaces I like to use. I have the usual card/paper/speciality paper, which comes in various textures and thicknesses. I also have old bits of flooring, perfect for a painting that will be free standing or unframed. Old bits of plasterboard from an old wall, providing an interesting texture to an acrylic painting and packs of playing cards, which add a playful element to small projects, along with old books whose pages can be transformed into unique canvases.
- Vessels. Jars, old cups, and vases are all required for storing things in so you can see them clearly. They serve not only as practical items but also as still life subjects, showcasing the beauty of everyday objects and their forms while holding water, enhancing the aesthetic of any space. Because, well it isn’t just about the practicalities, it has to look good. I like my storage to be pleasing to the eye too, and as my space is for therapeutic art sessions, I need it to be a calming environment and not too cluttered.
- Shelves. As many as possible, ones that can be moved about are the best! There can never be too many shelves in an art studio!
- Drying area/rack. As space saving as possible, I utilize my wall mounted rack, which is incredibly efficient and helps keep everything organized. I use it not only to store paper stacks in an orderly fashion but also to ensure that my workspace remains clutter-free. Furthermore, I peg my artwork up on a line to dry, allowing it to air out properly while maximizing the use of vertical space in my studio.
- Washing line. See above.
- Art media. This is getting exciting now, ooooh there are so many possibilities. Acrylic paint, watercolour, printing inks, powder paint, marker pens, felt pens, paint pens, watercolour crayons, watercolour pens…coloured pencils, oil pastels, soft pastels, charcoal, pastels in various forms, mixed media supplies, ink pads, gel pens, paintbrushes of every shape and size…there is a point where you will panic and wonder whether the art studio, undeniably the biggest pencil case you’ve ever had, is in fact large enough to house all the wonderful art supplies you have acquired over the years. The endless combinations of these materials, each capable of sparking creativity and inspiration, knowing where they all are is such a joy, leading to an overwhelming sense of potential that makes every artist’s heart race.
- Table. Essential for any workspace. I have a beautiful old table that my Mum got from a boot sale about forty years ago. Sanded and stained, I always longed to own it. It serves as a solid base for my practical work.
- Radio. For Popmaster, obviously.
February 28, 2026
Designing a Creative Space: My Arts Centre Vision
I have had the most productive of days. First of all, I bagged up a load of cardboard for recycling that I have been meaning to do for months. With the recycling sorted, I set about making some important decisions on my soon-to-be miniature arts centre.
I enlisted the help of my husband, as he is the one with the know-how when it comes to using the tools needed for the job, and, come to think of it, he is also the one with the tools themselves!
The roof came off in two pieces, but that was to be expected. Removing it revealed a whole new world of possibilities inside. Once it was off, I started to wonder how I could raise the roof. My Gaga had made a pitched roof to make the house more special, which adds character and charm, so I wanted to retain that essence; yet, I also needed the ceilings upstairs to be higher to look more authentic. I want this miniature arts centre to be as close to 12th scale as possible, and it will be, as long as my inhabitants are no taller than the average height!
The doors were all far too small, which led me to opt for a more open-plan design. This choice is not only practical but also more suited to an art space, allowing for a flow of creativity that echoes the environment I envision. Where doors are necessary, such as for the toilet, I decided it will be a non-opening door, as I want to retain the internal walls as much as I can. This kind of design strategy is integral to the atmosphere I’m trying to create.
As I explained in my previous post, I want this project to represent what my life is now, and the person I have become. An arts centre or an art school is a little pipe dream of mine if I ever won the lottery. Like I said, a dream. Yet, I believe in nurturing dreams, and I decided I would surely need to include a teaching space in my building—after all, sharing creativity and skills is what an arts centre is all about.
I am so looking forward to taking this project forward; my mind is swirling with exciting ideas and also with a growing list of things I need to procure!
I have started to prepare the interior for decoration. The atmosphere is taking shape with paint pots, protective dust sheets, and a tray loaded with fresh white paint sitting in the gallery space, all ready for tomorrow’s ventures. The prospect of bringing colour, life and stories to the interior fills me with inspiration, motivating me to push through each phase of this project with the enthusiasm and passion I am filled with.
February 27, 2026
The Seventies Dollhouse Built by My Grandad
About fifty years ago, my lovely grandad ( or Gaga as we grandchildren called him) built me a dolls house that remains etched in my memory. It was quite a modern yet distinctly seventies style house, complete with oranges, browns and unique architectural details, and I have always loved it to look at. The intricate features, from the tiny windows to the solid wood front door, added a touch of uniqueness. No body had one of these like mine. Back then, though, I didn’t quite know how to play with it, as it didn’t fit my dolls. Once I had meticulously put the miniature furniture in place, I could only look at it with admiration, enchanted by its working lights and the roaring fire that made it feel warm and inviting.
I have always wanted to give my little house a story. Back in the late nineties, when I got married and moved into my own home, I started cleaning and repainting it. I wanted to restore it, not to its old look, but to something more modern. As an adult, I realized the sizes and shapes weren’t quite right, so normal dollhouse items didn’t fit. At that time, I was pregnant with my first child and dealing with a tough pregnancy condition, which left me with no time or energy for dollhouse projects. I managed to do some painting and fix the lights, which was nice. After that, I put the house away until I had more time to think about it.
A few years later, I started making 1:12 scale miniatures, but I was too busy selling them to focus on my own dollhouse. Plus, I had two more babies, so I had my hands full.
Last week, while walking, I thought about cleaning out the loft, which is full of clutter. Suddenly, I got a great idea. I want to appreciate my dollhouse since it was made for me, and I can’t stand the thought of it being stored away or thrown out after I’m gone. I want to update it and fill it with miniatures that reflect my interests and creativity. I’ll need to make some changes so the upstairs matches the size of the downstairs since it’s a bit smaller. I also need to be able to remove the roof for easy access to the rooms. Once I sort that out, I will turn it into a 1:12 scale arts center with an art gallery downstairs and art studios upstairs.
I plan to document my renovations. I look forward to continuing my Gaga’s artistry in bringing life to my special little building and creating a new story inside it.
February 22, 2026
Impactful Art: Richard Long and Lucien Freud Uncovered
So as my birthday treat to myself, I took myself off to London for a day filled with art, art, and more art. First, I went to Tate Modern, my favourite art gallery because there is so much variety, so much to see, hear, and explore. The moment I stepped inside, I walked through the expansive galleries, as always, I look in awe at the incredible installations that seemed to challenge the very notion of art itself. As I ventured through the exhibits, I found myself lost in thoughts about the artists’ intentions and the stories behind their works, which made the experience even more enriching and memorable.
What I love about the Tate is that each time I look at art that I have already seen once or more times before, I see or experience something different.
I went into the room showing work by Richard Long. I have long admired his site specific works documenting the interactions between humans and the environment such as A Line Made by Walking (1967). I was drawn this time to works made by creating circles, something that recurs in my own practice as does work borne of my walking routine.
Norfolk Flint Circle (1990) Richard Long
The installation Norfolk Flint Circle (1990) is interesting not only due to the satisfying perfection of a circle formed of meticulously placed flint but how bringing inside objects that are meant for the outside instantly shifts the importance of them. Placed outside as are some of the artists other circular structures, the flint pieces are part of the site, belonging to the earth, the surroundings. The decision to bring those elements inside, spending time and money transporting them and carefully arranging them in a large indoor room meant just for them, makes it almost an act of worship.
Indeed, nature is forceful and should be respected which I why I felt that this artwork was incredibly impactful.
Then I walked to The National Portrait Gallery to see the Lucien Freud exhibition, it was a gorgeous day still. I walked through St James Park and noticed a little cottage with an allotment, London is so strange with these quirky happenings in the most unlikely places. On the lake, there were black swans, I’ve never seen those before either. The National Portrait Gallery is a stark contrast to the Tate Modern. The experience is a formal one, which befits the formal nature of the artworks on show.
Self Portrait Fragment (1956) Lucien Freud
Freud is an artist that I have neither studied or taught in detail but that made it all the more enjoyable as I was viewing with fresh eyes. As always I was drawn to the organic materials that were either unfinished or considered a draught or preliminary work. I am more often than not more excited by this matter than I am by final outcomes and framed work. There is something about seeing up close the process of a wonderfully executed painting emerging from a charcoal sketch that fills me with joy! it gives the painting life and is rich with texture and structure. I feel that it is my enthusiasm for these insights into the processes of other artists that has hd the most impact on my own artistic practices. It is why I like to leave sketch marks under my own paintings and why I like to see less than perfect finishes on my printmaking, the ‘printiness’ that a graphic designer would be brought to tears by.
As well as the many self portraits, Freud utilised the people around him as his subject matter, his wife Kitty Garman is tenderly portrayed in many paintings. What was particularly pleasing to see was the charming little collection of drawings from the artist as a child, typically childlike like the kind we find on every family household fridge.
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up,” -Attributed to Pablo Picasso
February 15, 2026
Art and Self-Care: February’s Journey of Renewal
Look at the gorgeousness of the snowdrop that was tucked away from the path; very few will have set their eyes on it. I have loved seeing them for as long as I can remember. These are just so delicate and pure-looking, yet they possess a strength that allows them to stand tall, even under the weight of the heavy rain from the night before.
It’s hardly surprising that February is my favorite month. It marks the arrival of the first signs of spring, as the snowdrops and cheerful daffodils begin to bloom, lifting our spirits after the winter and the dreary January days following the chaos of Christmas. Today, is my birthday which I always seem to treat as a fantastic opportunity to reflect, reset, and re-energize.
I have spent the day indulging in some mooching about, despite the persistent rain that has tried, but failed to darken the day. I am currently eating cake, drinking tea and watching Death in Paradise, which can’t help but make me feel warmer.
It’s funny how as I get older, I have never been one of those people who view a birthday with a sense of impending doom, dreading the extra year older as though this isn’t something to celebrate. I see each year as an achievement and a chance to question what have I done better in this past year? Well, I am healthier and taking practical steps to make sure I stay as healthy as I can be. I am more knowledgeable, I have learned so much about life both through experiences and research and I am excited for more therapeutic art exercises that I can now develop through what I have learned. I am grateful for everything and everyone I have in my life and I am eternally grateful to have Take That tickets for June!!!
Tomorrow I will be taking myself out on an artist date, one of the invaluable lessons that stuck with me when I read The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron a few years ago. This practice of nurturing my creativity is crucial; I am off to The National Portrait Gallery, The National Gallery, and Tate Modern, where I plan to totally indulge myself in the art of Picasso, Freud, Warhol and the many other artists I am familiar with as well as some I am not. I will walk everywhere as I usually do as I prefer not to have to navigate my way around the underground. The underground feels rushed and confining; it interrupts the purpose of the day too much. By walking, I get to see more than I would if I were crammed into a crowded, sweaty tube. I can take spontaneous detours, pause to appreciate unplanned street art, and simply enjoy the outside air, all of which feeds my need for constant inspiration.
Happy birthday me!
February 10, 2026
Balancing Life with Art: Techniques for Clarity
Grounding (2026) Watercolour on sheet music
I talked in my last post of restarting my year as it went a little awry mid January. I have reset my workload so it is a little more balanced and, I have started a cycle of decluttering both my home, art room and mind. Clearing my mind has not been something I have ever been able to achieve; when someone says “empty your mind,” what happens to me is that my brain panics, and every thought I have ever had starts whizzing around my head like a chaotic whirlwind.
However, I can use art as a means to focus. There are several exercises I have written for journaling that really work for me. By concentrating on the process, whether it’s the soft, flowing motions of watercolours or the crisp lines from a black fine liner (and I believe both mediums together create a marriage made in heaven!), I’ve found a way to channel that restless energy. It’s easy to block out the challenges of life by mark-making in those small, delicious moments of creativity. The more I practice these techniques, the easier it becomes for me to not ’empty my mind’ entirely but rather to recall the calming process of the art exercises. This recall can gently bring me back to the present moment, offering a reprieve from any noise that might be in my head.
Today was a bit different; the day was a little brighter and clearer, allowing me to enjoy a long walk, a luxury I haven’t had time to indulge in recently. Instead, I have been settling for several shorter walks, which are nice but don’t quite compare to the liberating feeling longer time out. It was refreshing to have the chance immerse myself in my audiobook.
In addition, I have been writing workshops that I am running soon and developing lessons to sell online. Of course, I’ve been immersing myself in making the art necessary to write these lessons, ensuring that I carve out these small mindful moments into each day. These activities not only fuel my creative spirit but also provide an avenue for self-exploration, allowing me to connect deeper with my artistic side. My commitment to maintaining balance and mindfulness is more than just a goal; it’s becoming an integral part of my life.
January 23, 2026
Finding Balance: Why We Need Our Stabilisers
Stabiliser (2026) Watercolour on paper, 5x5cm
We were out walking last Sunday afternoon and we walked past a young family; the parents were teaching their daughter how to ride a two-wheeler bike. “I remember my dad teaching me to ride my bike after taking off the stabilisers.” It seemed to take ages until I got the hang of it. It got me thinking though, why? Perhaps it wasn’t cool to ride a bike with stabilizers; you were a baby if you still had them on your bike, according to the older kids.
We have many challenges that we need to overcome throughout life. Why do we need to take something away that makes something easier for us? Yes, if you want to race bikes, it wouldn’t apparently be as exciting a sport if there were stabilizers hindering you going around corners, but most of us don’t race. Do we do this with other things? Yes, we do. For example, does anyone need to learn, if they find it a struggle, to tie shoelaces? Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying don’t bother teaching it. We absolutely should continue to teach our children life skills, and the joy on their little faces when they overcome these little challenges is priceless. But there is so much to learn. If one thing is a struggle, give them slip-on shoes, and later on, they can learn to tie their laces (if laces haven’t been phased out of our lives completely, because let’s face it, they are a trip hazard).
Last week, I became unwell very quickly while I was out. I had a migraine of enormous proportions, and I could barely stand. I couldn’t bear to look at anything; I couldn’t eat anything as I was so sick, and using my phone was out of the question. I was worrying about how I could cancel my work. As a freelancer, I was responsible for contacting students to cancel. It kind of got done—badly—but it got done, and I just sat in a darkened room. I knew that this was a migraine and that it would pass, but I knew then that I had spread myself too thin. Every minute of every day is filled with something to be done. I feel a failure if I miss something, cancel something, or have to let someone down. Yet, if anyone “lets me down” in the same way, I totally understand because it’s not letting anyone down at all.
Back to the stabilisers. We need our stabilisers, and these are different for everyone. I don’t mean family/house/job, etc. My stabilisers are walking and journaling; they are essential for my balance of well-being and calm. This is not about what we do that we think is best for others; we have to take responsibility for ourselves and our own well-being. Otherwise, our future self won’t be around or of any use to others.
So, I’ll take a step back, create a ‘not’ to-do list, and reset my start to 2026.
January 3, 2026
Finding Joy in Simple Moments: A New Year’s Reflection
Winter Trees (2025) Paper Collage
Despite starting the new year with a headache (not alcohol induced), I was thinking about how 2025 was exceptionally good to me. Reflecting on the past year, I realized that taking a leap of faith by setting myself up as a freelance artist and tutor was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The uncertainty was daunting at first, but with hard work and determination, it has worked out in my favour. I now feel in control of my professional journey, and the flexibility of freelance life has allowed me to cultivate a good work/life balance that I struggled with so much before. My daily interactions now, Remind me of the passion that originally fuelled my decision.
For some of my friends and family though, the year has dealt some devastating and heartbreaking blows. Life is indeed short, and amidst all the unpredictability it brings, one of the most important things we can do is take charge of our mental and physical wellbeing. It’s essential to prioritize our own health and happiness, even when faced with challenges. I’m not suggesting that anyone should recklessly abandon life as you know it, but I encourage taking a small step toward doing something you’ve always wanted to do, a ‘dream’ (a cliche, maybe a better word is … aim, or intention) you’ve put on hold for too long.
There’s a lot to be said for a cliched bucket list, for instance, sunrises are undeniably beautiful, and the best part? They are free, available to everyone in any corner of the world. Getting up early also makes me feel virtuous and taking a moment to appreciate a sunrise and take a breath, gives me the chance to mentally plan my day. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all conducive to the spiritual experience it sounds as I’m usually multi tasking already taking my little dog out for her toilet walk, but, you know….thats nice too.
Additionally, decluttering physical objects really helps to declutter your mind. It’s more than just tidying up; it’s therapeutic. It allows you to create space for new experiences, or just create space. By clearing your environment, you can create a peaceful sanctuary that contributes positively to your mental state.
Oh, and before I forget, I must remind you to wrap up warm and go outside tonight (3 Jan). Look up at the sky; the Quadrantid meteor shower will be amazing! Watching the stars blaze across the night sky is not just a beautiful spectacle but can be immensely soothing to the soul. The best viewing times are usually around or after midnight, so gather a few blankets, perhaps a warm drink, and enjoy this cosmic display.
So, instead of the usual celebratory New Year post filled with standard promises, hopes, and resolutions that often fade by February, I will simply say this: I sincerely hope that 2026 is good to you. May it bring you joy, fulfillment, and countless opportunities to embrace everything that life has to offer. Take the time to forge connections, create memories, and above all, chase after the things that set your heart on fire.
November 4, 2025
The Legacy of Witches: Nature, Society, and Modern Reflections
Had I been unfortunate enough to have existed a few hundred years ago, instead of now, I would almost certainly have been burned at the stake. Alternatively I may have been drowned in a nearby river for my bohemian aspirations and approaches to a healthier mental lifestyle.
Indeed, in my early twenties I was called a witch on many an occasion, mainly by undesirable beings I acquainted. This was for the boring but predictable reason that I wore black a lot and was dark haired, rather than it being the aura of mystery that clearly surrounded me! (wink).
Back then, I was far more reserved; I would not have admitted to many of the things that scored credit in my mental well-being ratings. For example, my autumn leaf crunching habit—crunching with my feet, that is—my leaf collecting habit (always useful for an artist to have) or my aversion to using artificial lighting in the morning unless absolutely essential (yes, I will sit in the dark eating my breakfast) as it is far more conducive to a fabulous gradual start to the day than putting the light on. I don’t care who knows now of course because individuality is to be embraced so it is much easier to find a place in the world in which to sit comfortably.
I have been tutoring English GCSE since earlier this year. In the literature we study, themes of misogyny and equality are common. Currently, we are discussing Macbeth, and the Essex Witch Trials have come up to provide context. In Shakespeare’s time, many believed in the occult and psychic powers, often respecting the boundaries of these beliefs, yet there was no respect for the women who were practicing witches. Witchcraft was used to explain any behavior from women that went beyond what men in society deemed acceptable, whether it was healing with herbal teas or being attractive and ‘bewitching’ to men.
Women accused of witchcraft faced trials and were put through tests to show if they were guilty or not. No matter the outcome, many died.
I find it interesting that I live in a village where witchcraft is part of the history embroidered through the foundations of the beautiful houses that ooze history, juxtaposed and standing strong with the twenty-first century new builds. These structures tell tales not only in their powerful architecture but also of the natural energy that beats from them like a heartbeat. These aged villages that are scattered through Britain seem to thrive like a tree growing in nutrient rich soil. The soil they are flourishing in though is intrigue, mystery and wonder. What about the witches who lived here before me, weaving their ‘spells’ in order to live in harmony with nature? I try to imagine how they felt to live in fear of facing accusations knowing that once that day came, there would be no hope.I believe that’s a story worth looking into, a deep dive into the past that could reveal how their legacy intertwines with our contemporary lives, inspiring a rediscovery of the magic that still lingers in the air.
September 30, 2025
The Best of Both Words: The Art of Writing
This year, I’ve expanded my ‘multimedia toolbox’ by reigniting my passion for teaching the art of writing and analysing the works of authors. I’ve begun tutoring English Language and Literature GCSE a few times a week, combining my love for reading and writing with the rewarding experience of engaging in meaningful discussions that arise from these activities. Throughout my art practice I have often combined text with art, not to explain but to add impact. Words are powerful and emotive in all kinds of ways and the interpretation often depends on the viewer/audience.
I have also been asked recently to teach calligraphy practice as a wellbeing activity. This it turned out to be both an engaging and rather satisfying skill to develop. The step away from writing using a keyboard provides a useful barrier between our fingers and device.
The organic feel of a pen to paper to make something beautiful with words serves well as a mindful exercise. It really doesn’t matter what you write, shopping list, lists of animals, friends and family. Random words you like the sound of or that have the most swirly loop opportunities.
It is a good idea to start with some of the known styles but then you can develop your own that suits your handwriting as some of it will flow in a more natural way for you, its a personal response which brings together the parallel beauty of art and text.
My new favourite way to write my name…I’m so happy to have a name beginning with ‘S’ …those loops!!!
Samantha Humphreys 