How the dream of more colour transformed my world.
“Change can be quiet, gentle, and without drama.” — David Hieatt
I’m no longer working in a home office—yet I’m still working and creating in the very same room. I transformed my workspace into my atelier, my art studio.
How did this happen?
It started with a dream. I remember telling a dear friend, two years ago, that I wanted more colour in my life. Now, I’m in my atelier, with my desk on one side and my colour pots on the other. One half of the cupboard still holds work files on process facilitation and meaningful conversations; the rest is a beautiful, creative mess of art supplies, calling me to create.
This feels so good.
After talking about my dream of bringing more colour into my life for too long, I finally biked to our village art store and stocked up on big sheets of paper, brushes, and tubes of acrylic paint (no pots, just tubes—which, I admit, was a little disappointing). But then came the harder part: How do I start? My first experiments felt clumsy—I was overthinking each stroke, struggling with an inner pressure to “get it right.” I felt lost and overwhelmed, unsure of what or how to paint. I realized that solitary experimentation wasn’t enough. I needed guidance, a space to get me moving—and a community to inspire me.
So, I looked into beginner art courses for a complete novice like me—no experience, just curiosity. Signing up took courage. I’m glad I did because it set everything in motion.
Walking into the art academy that first day was magical. Everywhere I looked there was art—half-finished pieces drying, colour pots and brushes of every shape and size, charcoal sticks, and a lot more. I felt privileged to be part of that space and community, surrounded by people in a creative mood.
Since that day, I haven’t stopped experimenting with my colour pots. Each lesson is an invitation to play, to explore, and to look and notice.
I am even more convinced that creative spaces matter—places filled with heart and soul that spark energy and inspiration.
I’ve found mine.
Sometimes, all it takes is a small dream, a little courage, and the right place to turn creativity into a way of life.
Have you found yours? What is the place that sparks your creativity? Or, if you’re still searching, what would your dream space look like? I’d love to hear about it—tell me in the comments!
The bit at the end
Exciting events on the horizon to support your exploration:
- The last Renewal Cafe of this year will take place on Thursday, December 12 at 16:00 CET. The topic is Welcoming New Thoughts: Creative Ideas for the Future (this is a ticketed event).
- I invite you to join the upcoming Unhurried Conversation, sign up here for free.
- Subscribe below to my newsletter for timely updates delivered straight to your inbox.
Get in touch—I’m always happy to chat!
Creatively,
Nadia
P.S.The paintings featured on the blog are my own.
Learning Moments 
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