Starting point
From a young age, I’ve always enjoyed creating things, whether it’s through drawing, painting, or crafting. This love for creativity led me to pursue a career in design, a decision I’ve never regretted. I consider myself fortunate to have followed my heart, which landed me a fulfilling job that kickstarted my career. After 20+ years of experience in graphic design, my creative needs have been growing in other directions.
Amid the challenges of the first Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, I was blessed to have ample work opportunities, although homeschooling three young children simultaneously posed its difficulties. Nevertheless, I remained grateful for the time spent with my family, something I had often yearned for but struggled to achieve with the demands of work, commitments, and social engagements. Yet, alongside this gratitude, I couldn’t help but feel guilty knowing that so many others were facing much greater hardships – dealing with ill family and friends or enduring isolation from loved ones and any sort of human contact.
During those days spent at the kitchen table, helping my children with their school tasks, I found solace in returning to my passion for drawing. Almost unconsciously, I began sketching hugs onto paper, an expression of the human connection we all craved during those times. It struck me that these drawings could be used for something more, in a small way, to foster a sense of connection and comfort among people. I then created the Kindness Collection through my Instagram account.
The concept behind the "Kindness Collection" was to spread art and positivity each day until we could reunite after the lockdown. These artworks were sent to nominated individuals who may have needed an extra dose of love during those challenging times. Along with the drawings, heartfelt messages from the sender were included, hopefully creating a personal and touching connection. The responses I received through Instagram were deeply moving, often bringing me to tears. Witnessing the strength, courage, and hardships people faced on a daily basis was humbling. In addition to sharing my drawings, I also appealed for donations to support Concern Worldwide UK's Mumprenuer program, which empowers mothers in some of the poorest regions, helping them establish sustainable livelihoods and make a positive impact in their communities.
Though my efforts may have been modest, I felt a sense of fulfillment knowing that my art was contributing to something more significant – spreading kindness and hopefully making a positive difference in the lives of others.