Freedom to play

What does it mean to be a kid at heart?

Freedom to play, freedom to think. Work with others, like this collaboration mural. The brain is plastic and it changes massively through childhood. Keeping hold of that willingness to learn and play helps solve problems, makes you think.

Memories of paddling in a river, or climbing a tree, having freedom to go to college and learn. I also think wit, and humour is important. Playing with words, striking up conversations with people. Enjoying puns and jokes, still being able to giggle. Fun is freedom to keep hold of your childhood.

A sketchbook page

Trying to draw part of a Renoir painting yesterday was hard work. I didn’t get the shape exactly right, and trying to use felt pens was hard too as I only had a limited range of colours. I didn’t do a good job of the hand on the woman’s shoulder, the felt pens bled and I really should have used a fine liner pen. But at least I completed a challenge.

Autumn woman

Painting from eight years ago, it came up on my Facebook page. I don’t know if I’ve ever posted it here.

Autumn Woman

When the leaves fall

From under leaf litter

You will slowly crawl.

Gleaming colours

Red, gold, green,

Are soft or brittle

A seasonal scene.

Then mists and fruits

Make subtle colours

And Autumn woman

Finds her full power.