When all is said and done, Barcelona was more than just a change of scenery; it was a turning point in my artistic journey and in my life. Living there was both challenging and transformative. On the one hand there was the overarching presense of Gaudi's legacy vibrantly evident all over the city. Beautiful iron work of gates and tiles adorned everyday buildings.There was 'Parque Guell,' the park designed by Gaudi and where he lived for a spell, with all the beautiful things he designed there but far too many to mention here, the sun and the sea, Las Ramblas with all it's artists, markets, squares and galleries showing works by Miro and Picasso and many more. There were frequent sunny trips to the Tarragonna countryside with my boyfriend's family and some lovely visits to Barcelona by my own family, the fabulous food, the music, the colour, the energy and the beautiful and kind people there. On the other hand, a strange burgeoning sense of displacement creeped over me. Leaving my country, culture, family and friends behind caused in me to develop a disconnected feeling of lonely isolation and I sank back into a position of observer. These things all conspired to become catalysts for a personal artistic breakthrough.
A Transformative Journey
As I mentioned in part 4 of this series, having subsequently developed the seeds of my aritstic future in Barcelona, I returned to Ireland. After my hugely transformative Spanish journey away from home and returning while not even knowing if it was a permanent arrangement, I knew I needed to earn some money and get out of the rut I had found myself in. I knew where I was headed for and I knew what I would do there. I sought quieter surroundings of the west, hoping to continue my artistic journey. I did. I painted and exhibited my work, making more sales but still, I struggled to sustain myself solely from my art before being compelled to start yet another new job to make ends meet and ultimately a new business designing Lapanda Designs jewellery.
Art Life Challenges
Reflecting on my journey, I see how each challenge and detour has shaped my artistic path and my life. Spain was more than an adventure; it was a life experience and the breakthrough I needed to fully embrace my identity as an artist. I will always be grateful for that time and the people who supported me there in so many ways.
Having been in the craft industry for many years since 2007, from selling at craft markets the length and breath of the country, to running a bricks and mortar shop, supplying other shops and over the last five years developing my Parade Handmade collections online, through all the highs and lows of the pandemic, learning all bout creating and maintaining a website among various other challenges, now I want to encorporate time for my special passion once more. Art. Lovely, wonderful, colourful embracing art. This time I won't let it slip away from me. Mark my words.
Have you ever experienced a significant breakthrough in your life or career or have you ever returned to a long lost love or passion? I don't mean a lover of course. What's your story? I’d love to hear some of your stories in the comments below.
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Until next time, take care, Amanda
