In union, there is strength.
Aesop
Dear Creative Friends,
2020 is rapidly turning into a year like none we’ve seen in recent times, and shaping up to be the world’s collective annus horribilis.
As we all prepare for the spread of Covid-19, and begin practising ‘social distancing’, or are forced into isolation, what better time is there than now, for us all to pull together?
Now, more than ever, connection is essential. We may not be able to gather together with family, friends, fellow quilters or artists, but we can use the high-tech internet services available to reach out and support each other.
Despite the uncertainty, anxiety and fear that is simmering under the surface, I believe we, as artists, creators, stitchers, painters, or musicians, have a duty of care … a duty of care to ourselves and our families and our communities to ensure not that not only physical health and wellbeing are maintained, but also emotional health.
These are uncertain times, indeed, and we are all in this together.
The internet allows us to connect, to share, to have someone to reach out to when you need a friendly word or two.
You and I have likely never met ‘in person’, but does that matter?
It’s time for the hand of friendship and support to bring the world together.
You never know, it may even do some good.
My message today is brief but comes from the heart:
I want you to know that I am here, I will continue to be here, and I am going to do my darndest to bring you a host of new creative things to keep you inspired through the times ahead of us.
None of us knows how long that will be.
Many of you are aware that I also live the sometimes precarious life of a freelance musician. And it breaks my heart to say that my beloved Arts industry is on its knees and unlikely to recover for many, many months. I have no music engagements in the foreseeable future. They’ve all been cancelled.
And I’m gradually moving my violin and viola teaching online.
I’ve created a Directory of Resources for you.
Given that many of you will find yourself stuck at home and looking for a little creative joy and inspiration, I have prepared a detailed Directory of Resources to be found on ThreadSketchingInAction.com.
Regardless of whether you’re looking for a free guide or tutorial, a video, a design, or an online class, you’ll likely find something of interest in the Directory.
The Directory of Resources is really one grand, long list of links to interesting stuff I’ve put together in recent years.
You can find the Directory link on the ‘Home’ page at Thread Sketching In Action, and under the ‘Resources’ tab on the toolbar. Or simply click here… Directory of Resources.
Why did I make the Directory of Resources?
Websites can become unwieldy over time, and although I try to keep it reasonably well organised, it can reach a point where you are unaware of what’s hiding in there!
Whether you’re looking for a few free tips, some inspiration from one of my videos, or are ready to invest in one of my books – I want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy what’s there.
My plans for Thread Sketching in Action
Good news! [yay!]. On the surface, not a lot has changed at Thread Sketching in Action.
Business as usual (more or less).
I will continue to muddle along in my usual, imperfect way, and send my sometimes off-beat newsletters to entertain and delight you with new ideas!
Books are ideal when you’re stuck at home
I have a range of best-selling books available on Amazon, in both Kindle and Paperback format. Why not check them out today!
Other ideas …
A host of ideas are buzzing around in my head to help keep you informed and entertained during whatever lies ahead.
For there’s no doubt that there will be times when we need to ‘escape the reality’ and chill a little.
Anyways, I want you to know that I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere (literally!).
Many of us live alone, and when isolation becomes a necessity rather than a choice, then that is the time to reach out to others for support.
Remember …
- Wash your hands ? ??
- Don’t touch your face ?
- Don’t go out or to work if you’re feeling sick ?
- Eat well ?
- Look after your family ????
Let’s get through this together. Stay safe.
Happy stitching,
Deborah ?
I just wanted to say thank you for the Directory and for the content you provide. Your encouraging message is nice to receive at this challenging time. I am truly sorry for the lost bookings for your music that will never be recovered. We will all break out of confinement and celebrate hugging all our friends and neighbours !
Thanks,Vivian. Yes, these are stressful times, but it will end at some point. I’m going to endeavour to keep going with what I do here. We all need some relief from time to time. 🙂 Deborah