The Joyful Creative

I'm sure I'm not the only one having a tough time right now. Life get's hectic at this time of year, and when personal crises pop up simultaneously, it can be completely overwhelming. At times like these my advice is to show yourself some kindness and just let some things go! If those things are important (like your creative practice!) give yourself a grace period and simply pick it up again whene...

Are you curious about trying a new medium? Is there a little voice inside urging you to break out of your usual creative routine and do a different thing? Well guess what? It's ok to pivot! Don't let the fact that you've invested time, energy and money into one medium, your lack of storage space for more materials or your identity as a particular type of creative prevent your expansion in new crea...

I'm sure I'm not the only one suffering some overwhelm at this stage of the year! But I think we can all safely say that this is no different from any other Christmas lead up and maybe if we remember how we managed to get through it every year before, we might just feel empowered rather than on the verge of break down! A little mindful creativity (hello mindful colouring book!) even a few minutes...

I've found myself some creative friends and it's been surprisingly lovely for this lone-ranger! I highly recommend connecting with a person or a group who can be your support, your cheerleader and keep you accountable to your creative practice. Subscribe to my mailing list Send me an email Facebook Instagram Order my colouring Book - It Starts With A Heart TRANSCRIPT: Well, hello everyone. Welcome...

I almost didn't record an episode this week because I'm away from home and don't have my microphone with me and I was concerned about the sound quality. But then I remembered my new motto "Done is better than perfect" (not mine originally but I'm embracing it!) and realised I should just get resourceful and do it anyway, even if the results are a little messy. The same goes for creativity. We coul...

This episode was inspired by a ground breaking music concert I saw this week. There were combinations of artistic elements in this show that I didn't believe would ever be seen on the one stage. I was blown away, and excited by the creative possibilities that exist if we just allow them to. I share a vulnerable admission and encourage you to give yourself permission to do the seemingly silly, the...

Hand made gifts are always that little bit more special aren't they? And with Christmas looming, now is a great time to utilise your creative talents and make unique gifts for your loved ones. In this episode I share some great hand made gift ideas and guidelines on how to get them done without last minute stress! If you don't have the time or inclination to make gifts yourself, a hand made item b...

I'm back from my mind blowing trip to Italy with some insights on finding creative inspiration wherever you are and my light bulb moment about finding my creative voice. Listen in for the juice! And make sure you're on my mailing list of you're interested in my upcoming studio sale... Subscribe to my mailing list Send me an email Facebook Instagram Order my colouring Book - It Starts With A Heart

I'm about to go to Italy!! I'm really excited but of course there are now considerations about what creative materials I can pack, where I'll be able to sit down and do my creative practice and when I'll fit it into my travel itinerary. I've encountered this many times on work and personal trips both overseas, outback camping and interstate visits to family so in this episode I share some tips on...

Maintaining your creative practice alongside parenting can be challenging on so many levels. In this episode I share tips I wish I knew when I was in the throes of parenthood and finding my way as a creative. The tips are: Keep it small. Get the kids involved! Have your project ready to go. Connect with other creative parents. Seek support The housework can wait. Think outside the square. Be okay...

Hi there. It's Deborah O'Toole artist here. Now, if you're in the Brisbane area, you might be interested to know that I'll be offering two sessions of my mindful creativity workshop on the 14th of September.  Over the course of three relaxing hours. You'll enter a state of creative flow while experimenting with simple, repetitive techniques, such as doodling, inking, and metallic embellishmen...

So you have the time but not the motivation? Here are 8 tips to get you off the couch, away from the screen and into your studio when you just can’t be bothered. Anyone relate?? In short: Allow yourself to do the minimum and celebrate those small wins. Plan a big reward for finishing a project. Get yourself an accountability partner. Have inspiration in your environment. Get physical. Put down the...

Lately I've found myself wondering if I should still be performing in a rock band at age 53. After 35+ years in the biz, am I too old for this? Sometimes my aching body says yes! But more often it's my nasty nagging inner-critic (ego) that says I look too old and it's silly for a woman my age to be prancing around the stage, belting it out like Tina Turner. Nobody told Tina to stop doing it when s...

 I just completed an artwork that is a collaboration between myself and participants and staff at All Abilities Australia. This piece will be auctioned at their upcoming fundraising gala. In this episode I share the process (what a journey!) and some insights I gained about creativity. Find me on socials  - https://www.instagram.com/deborahotoole_artist/ https://www.facebook.com/DeborahOToole...

How do you get started if you’re keen to pick up a creative pursuit but don’t know where to start? From online resources to listening to the quiet voice within, I give you some ideas to get you going on your creative journey.  SHOW NOTES: Find me on socials  - https://www.instagram.com/deborahotoole_artist/ https://www.facebook.com/DeborahOTooleArtist Send me an email - hello@deborahotoo...

Why Joy? I didn’t call this podcast the JOYFUL Creative for nothing! Is joy possible or even important in our busy lives, particularly in the world today? Listen in for my musings on joy, how we take a joyful perspective on the not-joyful aspects of our lives and how we can ensure our creative practice brings the joy it is meant to (not be another burdensome item on the to-do-list) SHOW NOTES: Fin...

Welcome to the first episode! Here I talk about the WHY? Why regular creativity is important, and some of the incredible benefits to mental health and wellbeing. If you’re struggling to prioritise regular creativity in your busy life, these points might just help you reframe that thinking so you can get more creative, enjoy the benefits and bring more joy into your life! Here are the takeaways: 1....

Who is this Deborah O'Toole anyway?? In this episode, I introduce myself, talk about my creative background and how I’ve come to where I am now. In short, I'm a former full time Army vocalist who has always loved visual arts, I’m on a daily creative streak and I’m passionate about spreading the good word about creativity for well being. Oh, and I adore my labradoodle and morning coffee! Listen in...

DESCRIPTION: I get it, you’re super busy with life, job, kids, parents, all the things…. and you think “there’s NO WAY I can make my creative practice a regular priority!” Well, I’ve been there and I can tell you there are ways to help make this a reality and bring the joy  and wellbeing benefits of creativity into your life… yes, every day! Here are my tips: Start Small - even a little bit e...

Welcome to The Joyful Creative - a source of inspiration for integrating creativity into your busy life. Whether you're into painting, writing, knitting, music, cooking, or gardening, I firmly believe that nurturing your creative practice is essential for your wellbeing. Join me as we embark on a journey to reconnect with the creative passions that bring us joy. Together, we'll explore practical a...