The practice of regular walking awakens ideas and everything feels possible in creating art. Even better for me starting the day with a long walk is the physical and mental preparation that I need to prepare for a day in the studio. I am fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful places. The walk to the lighthouse is inspiring and the long walk from home to the studio has become a source of inspiration. I carry a small scetchbook and when ideas come I record them knowing that may feed an idea for a painting later. I really value those sketches because they were realized through walking.

Walking is more than exercise it's the whole experience of connecting with nature, your environment, the wildlife and people.Walking is a reflective experience where space and time are suspended and imagination ignited, rekindling the creative spirit.  Recently while walking the abandoned railway track from Belongil into Byron Bay I was reminded how nature quietly claims back its space and how quickly the railway line slowly disappears under grass and bushes.

The early morning walk is alive with native wildlife including wallabies and array of birds and insects. An Australian bush turkey delicately surveys the ground for her breakfast with its red head and yellow bare skinned neck.  She meanders across the track in a solitary kind of way. The rail line is quietly disappearing, swallowed by the enduring strength of the natural environment. Walking and feeling the power of nature is always a source of creative inspiration for me.