Alchemists and artists alike are highly ingenious, transforming materials and creating their own worlds and realities. Alchemy and art are therefore intimately related practices and they both, alchemists and artists, have mutually influenced and enriched each other throughout history. Alchemists were convinced that mercury transcended both the solid and liquid states, both earth and heaven, both life and death.

As an artist, and automatically, an entrepreneur, it can be difficult at times to remain inspired, motivated and keep moving forward. Being your own boss, working alone, and having no one to answer to – is rather tempting at times to go for an extra long walk, meet up with friends for too many coffees and basically goof off!

Sketch each day – no matter what is going on in your life you can always find something to sketch and find the time. If it’s waiting at the bus stop; waiting in line at the shops; or like me, stopping along your favourite walk way whilst walking every morning – there are interesting and easy sketching subjects everywhere.

What gives successful thriving artists that winning edge? It’s a whole lot of reasons really. Talent, tenacity, discipline, confidence, clarity and staying inspired. You also have to know your painting “why” and how you define success for yourself as an artist.

I love the desert. One of my favourite places to paint and walk is the Larapinta Trail of the West Macdonnell Ranges just outside of Alice Springs. I also love the East Macs – not as well known or extreme but beautiful and inspiring nevertheless.

Studio practice is all about turning up, staying focused and enjoying your creative process. A big challenge of many artists is distraction and procrastination – so setting up an enjoyable and encouraging place to work is key.