“I feel like fear is the secret ingredient that makes things magical. Awesome. I listen to fear. You can be talented and creative and all those pretty things – but it’s a life-changing affair if you feel the fear and you go out to meet it. I love that feeling.” – Kal Barteski
Last week, I travelled from Perth, Western Australia, to Seppeltsfield, South Australia. A distance of 2672 km there and 2672 km back. It was my very first experience of teaching on the other side of this terribly vast land. It was exciting, tiring, invigorating and somewhat confusing. (It’s no simple matter feeling incredibly brave and very scared at the very same time!).
So here’s the thing: 5344 km later … Nothing went wrong. In fact, sooo many things went right!
I can now say that I had the privilege of sharing my artistic process with some wonderful folk in the Barossa Valley of South Australia, in the iconic, historic Seppeltsfield Winery. Then there was incredible kindness of my host, Kirsty Kingsley of Kinkit and her husband Nick Radford, two magical people I met for the first time. Add to that the beauty of their home and the surrounding vineyards, being greeted (from my cottage in their vineyard!) every morning by two large enthusiastic dogs, two small and scarily smart little boys, five chickens, a turkey and a rooster and the beautiful, unique art that was created by my students, and I’ve got an amazing tapestry of memories that I will cherish in my heart for always.
I went across the country and I and met my fear head on. And as it melted away, it was replaced by two of my favourite things: new formed friendships and fantastic art (and a fair bit of fabulous food too!).
Tomorrow I’m leaving to teach in Melbourne. This time it’s a 6843 km round trip, back Sunday. Gosh, I think I’m getting good at being brave and scared at the very same time 🙂
Is it just me, or have you ever felt this delicious confusion?
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Comments 12
yay hooray! it will be great. beautiful pictures 🙂
Author
Yes it will 🙂 Can’t wait to meet the Melbourne mob! And thank you xxx
well done Malini!!! you can be so very proud of yourself 🙂
I had a similar experience when I was invited to speak at an event last year alongside an incredible smart and senior public servant from Canberra. There I was, having to explain my ideas to a giant room full of 100+ silent, staring people. terror doesn’t even begin to describe it.
But it worked out okay, and I gained a lot of confidence in myself (even though I’d probably not want to repeat the experience any time soon…)
My boyfriend has a saying which is as vulgar as it is wise – “if you’re not sh*tting your pants, you’re not moving forward.” And while that is no consolation at the time, it helps me to focus on the goal and use my fear to catapult me there.
Good luck in Melbourne, it will be even more amazing I’m sure 🙂
Author
Your boyfriend is wise (in a blokey sort of way 🙂 It is so true that we need to be constantly challenged in order to grow. After all, “What are we without everything that’s ever happened to us?” D. Shapiro
Thank you for your kind wishes and … well, for being in my life, Carina 🙂 xox
That is wonderful Malini! What an adventure. I know that fear you speak of, and agree it is magical when you meet it head on and it transforms. Enjoy Melbourne x
Author
Hey Jo, so glad you get where I’m coming from 🙂 I think we’re kindred spirits! xox
Daughter Jo and I are very very much looking forward to your arrival way over east in Melbourne…. and to Saturday’s workshop. Inspirational post with wonderful paintings. I am very excited at the prospect of being able to produce something colourful and expressive of my own. Incidentally, I was over in Perth last week (visiting son Rob who did your workshop back in June) and I loved the paintings he produced. You’re spreading your wings all over, Malini! Safe travelling and see you on Saturday
Author
Jenny it was just TOTALLY wonderful to meet you and Joanna at my workshop on Saturday! Thank you so much for your lovely lovely presence and for bringing your gorgeous son and daughter to my class. What a family 🙂 xox
Sent to my brother in Melbourne but you are fully booked (he checked he said) – so he’ll wait till online or next time you are in Melbourne.
Sounds like you took the magic with you and spread it all around. The pictures show magical people and magical art.
well done, Mal, for overcoming fears. Mine was attending your class, and finding something I am able to do if i put my mind to it. Thank you for spreading magic throughout Australia.
Travel safe – both ways!!
Author
Robin dear, I would have loved to have met your brother! Next time 🙂 meeting fear and saying “hi, you’re not so scary” is fun 🙂 I LOVED the Melbourne workshop… thank you so much for your kind words and support xox
Such beauty!! I miss your art workshops! I miss painting! I need to head down to the art store here and by some supplies!
Author
I MISS YOU!! Carmel, you are beautiful 🙂 xox