Easter plans have been abandoned due to toddler becoming poorly last night. There should have been games in the sunshine today but now she’s napping and I’ve been reading. Flannery O’ Connor, in case you’re wondering. I highly recommend. The other Easter thing happening that toddler and I didn’t go to involved the part of toddler’s family that walked out over a month ago. I’m sure we could’ve gone to his family Easter fun. I’m even more sure it would’ve been awkward.
And so. Single mom. How to do this new thing. And somehow keep on keepin on, hanging on to the part of my identity that feels like it’s an artist.
Someone said to me the other day, you’re not an artist if you don’t have a sketchbook with you all the time. My pockets are filled with tissues and biscuits and crayons for my daughter. This spells out MOM clearly, but doesn’t make me less of an artist; just one that can’t drop everything and draw on a whim. I’m ok with that. I love being her mother.
With all that said, I have been shortlisted for the RA summer exhibition. I needed this. I really needed this. This is already a win for me.
This is how I roll 
Ah! C very huge congratulations for the RA win. Massive competition. Go you.
Don’t believe anything anybody says that has “all artists” in it anywhere. It’s balderdash – we all do what we do, love where we are.
That man, pfft crazy. You’ll be fine. Take all the help you’re offered and ask for more. You’re a great mum, toddler will know that.
All my very best. xxx
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What a terrific response. Thanks so much. (Should I know who this is??? And if I should please accept all my apologies that this information is evading my memory just now)
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ahh a good book is a wonderous thing. An artist is an artist… nothing to do with accessories…
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You speak the truth. On both counts.
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Hi Cassandra. I’m Joanna’s husband (Arwen’s dad). You and Jo met up a couple of times when you were still in Edinburgh – I think our wee girls are about the same age. Really sorry to hear about the personal issues you’re facing but delighted that you’re being recognised by the RA. Jo and I are fans. Two of your prints sit in our lounge!
I’m sure you’ve got a network of friends and family already but if you do end up back in Edinburgh and fancy a cup of tea then please do get in touch. Joanna is expecting our second in June so maternity leave beckons…
I empathise with your thoughts about identity being subsumed by the demands of parenthood. It is a struggle. For what its worth, I don’t think someone becomes less of an artist/musician etc. for being a parent. If anything you’ve gained a muse!
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What a completely wonderful response. As a matter of fact, I have decided to move back to Edinburgh and had planned to contact Jo once we settled in. I did see that you were expecting again and think that’s fantastic! Congratulations! Will be in touch once we find and settle into new digs.
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