I recently spent a weekend in London and was thrilled to spend a few hours walking around the Tate Modern. It’s been a while since I allowed myself to just have fun, and do the simple things in life that make me smile. What blew me away was coming face to face with a room full of Gerhard Richter paintings! I was introduced to his work back in university over 15 years ago and have been inspired by him ever since. To me he is the painting equivalent of a free runner. Pushing his boundaries, finding the strength to take his work to new dimensions whilst effortlessly being in total control.

Being in that room in ore of his beautiful creations made me realise that I have neglected my own creative needs of late. I’ve been too caught up with my studying, worrying about getting the grades. Spending all my free time by my desk with my head in my books. This weekend I actually started a new painting, first in a few months. The smell of the oil paint, combined with my endless mug of coffee was so comforting. I filled me with so much happiness, like a million smiles were bursting out of me in all directions. I felt as if I had returned from my zombie state. With each breath of my turps filled atmosphere, was transforming into Jess again.

If one single visit to the Tate Modern could bring me such joy, then wouldn’t it be lovely to share that experience with others? If my art can make someone smile too then I’ve succeeded.

#TateModern #GerhardRichter