The Braw and The Brave Meet....Christina Rose Leon

Meet Christina Rose Leon a Glasgow-based jeweller. Specialising in stone setting and enamelling, Christina works closely with each client to create a beautifully bespoke piece of jewellery that will be treasured for a lifetime. From engagement rings to diamond encrusted pendants, Christina is sensitive to the sentimentality of gifting and receiving a something that is not only handcrafted but totally unique and this is evident in her impeccable customer service, as well as the time and effort spent behind the scenes to ensure she produces the perfect piece. For Christina it's all about the client and the vision they are entrusting her to bring to life on their behalf.

Attending evening classes in jewellery making aged 20 was the defining light bulb moment Christina had sought after. "On the first night I made an ugly copper ring. On the bus home I couldn't stop looking at it. I was in awe of this thing I had just made". Whilst she recalls those around her being intimated by the materials and the tools in the workshop, Christina felt instantly at home, confident to just get stuck in and give it a go. Leaving school, unsure of the career path she wanted to take, Christina had been temping in offices and dabbling in photography, trying to gain some experience in the world of work. "I'd recommend this to anyone. It made me more confident. Going straight from school into further education can be difficult for some as staying self motivated and sticking to deadlines can be challenging. Getting paid for something made me realise that my time was worth something and that made me want to work harder". 

Showing a real passion for jewellery from a young age, Christina was fascinated with cleaning and inspecting her child-minder's rings as a kid and obsessing over a jewellery box filled with the intricate 'treasure' she had been gifted by a relative. Growing up she had great interest in how things were crafted and could be found dreaming up all sorts of creations."I've always been good at making stuff but never thought I was that creative. I am a passionate maker". It is an understanding of where her strengths lie that has led Christina to carve out a very successful career. She gets real satisfaction in designing bespoke, one-off pieces for her clients where she is able to breathe life into their ideas. Through her ability to extract all information and inspiration they can offer, problem solving her way through a brief brings Christina to the final design. 

Graduating in 2009 in bench making skills, Christina worked as a freelance jeweller for many years, keeping close links with her college by attending open classes regularly. When her lecturers a few years ago suggested she return to study computer aided design she admits she was rather reluctant at first. Having had no experience in using this kind of software, she realised that the year-long honours course would be somewhat intensive but a worthwhile endeavour. " The first day we were given an image of a ring and told we had less than a week to prepare a 10 minute presentation on how you would make it on CAD. I was studying alongside others who had been using it for 3 years and I had to learn it from scratch!". 4am rises and 16 hour days saw her immerse herself in her studies, determined not to fail at something she was completely new to. Persuading the college to allow her to concentrate solely on stone setting briefs, she was able to make sense of all the skills she was gaining through re-teaching a fellow novice student what she was learning on a daily basis. This is something that was of real benefit to her studies and she now continues to support other jewellers by offering one to one sessions to assist them in their work. 

The creative process can be lengthy with great attention to detail being bestowed on each piece of jewellery commissioned.  It can be months in the making from idea to the finished article being in the owner's possession. As well as the design concerns, it is in Christina's interest to present her clients with all the options within (and sometimes out-with) their budget parameters. Becoming a mind reader and working off of her intuition, it becomes a process of elimination with her presenting a few options based on the information initially given, to eventually narrow it down to the design and materials that fit perfectly. "Some people have no idea what they want but in chatting with them, likes and dislikes they didn't even know they had can be revealed.". The indicisiveness and uncertainty that inivitably comes with trying to extract and pinpoint what it is a client actually wants can add to the challenge of defining the exact details. Armed with everything she has collected, Christina gets to work on each commission liaising with the client throughout the process but has, over the years, learned not to be self critical of what she knows to be her most productive way of working. "I used to lie about when I got up. I now know that I work better at certain times. I'm confident to say what works for me and I won't apologise for it". Quite often having to put her own preferences aside, the journey is entirely client-centred. However working on a something for such a long time Christina admits "I always end up loving it in the end! I know every single bit of that piece of jewellery and you've been handling it for so long that you do become attached".

Realising the importance of being social media savvy is something Christina has always been switched on to. A successful Youtuber and former Dailybooth creative, her love of interacting with like-minded creatives on-line has served her well in promoting her business as a jeweller. "I am on so many social media creative groups as I like to bounce ideas off others. Nowadays it's such an integral part of your business, compared to 6 or 7 years ago". Scheduling in time to promote her work online, as well as catching up on what others are doing in the industry is part of her working week. As a freelance artist Christina not only finds it imperative to stay connected from a business point of view but as a creative, collaborating and sharing ideas helps to keep her motivated and inspired.  Clients' testimonials and their publicity of her work assist in securing that next commission, with the real highlights being in those "she loved it!" emails. 

Christina is invested in every single piece of jewellery she lovingly produces, greatly valuing her client's decision to select her to be their jeweller. The rewards outweigh any of the challenges presented and she is highly motivated by the story and the people behind each and every piece. I was very lucky to be gifted a bespoke ring designed and made by Christina and it's something I cherish dearly. You are made to feel very special when something has been painstakingly produced with you at the heart of every decision made and Christina's exceptional craftsmanship and creativity makes that dream a reality. Christina is a people person and it is her friendly, approachable, professional manner, married with her undeniable talent that makes her exceptional in her field. 

If you could have an unlimited amount of something, what would it be?

"I really want to say sleep. I love a cat nap! Oh, tea too!"

Who dresses like a badass?

"The whole of France! I've always watched French movies and I love how the women manage to look so effortlessly fabulous! I've never been one to follow fashion trends or celebrity style"

Biggest pet peeve?

"People not following the rules. I recently was on a tour of the City Hall in Belfast and the guide asked everyone to stick together and the amount of people that wandered off and then we had to wait on them. When people are late for things it stresses me out too" 

Hidden talent?

"I can hoola-hoop for 2 hours and 10 minutes! I was doing a Youtube video during the Olympics and discovered that I could just keep going!"

Favourite smell?

"I have a candle that smells exactly like these little jelly sweets from when I was a kid. I used to get them on top of milkshakes that my dad took me to get. I cherish that smell as it takes me back to such a nice time" 

Website 

https://www.christinaroseleon.com

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/christinaroseleonjewellery/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/christinaroseleonjewellery/

Twitter 

https://twitter.com/crljewellery?lang=en

The Braw and The Brave Meet.....ERISKA

ERISKA are a Glasgow-based folk band making waves in the traditional music scene in Scotland. Fresh from their recent debut at Celtic Connections, the band are going from strength to strength despite only forming in early 2016. Accordion player Aileen Sweeney explains that although initially it was difficult to pin down permanent members, the now six-strong line-up all agree that the fit feels just right. "Many bands are formed from friendship groups and I'll admit I was a bit worried at first that we wouldn't gel, as we didn't all know each other but I think it's actually been better that way. We've become friends but essentially we are all there to make the band a success". With musicians originating from as far flung as Argentina and the USA and with backgrounds in varying musical disciplines, ERISKA are an eclectic clan, keen to combine their interests in all styles of music to create a new sound. With their current repertoire a 50/50 mix of original work and their own take on traditional tunes, the objective is always to give every number the ERISKA stamp. "We work pretty hard to the get variations within the traditional arrangements spot on.  It can take time to get the right balance but it's worth it in the end"- Aileen. Fuelled by their passion for music and a drive to see the band flourish, creative blocks or droughts haven't plagued them to date, although having too many ideas can be a challenge at times."It's going through a full rehearsal and realising we haven't produced anything new. However in that time we've ruled out what we definitely don't want and it's about being okay with that!"-Scott. Recalling a six-hour rehearsal where they tried every combination of chords imaginable to only arrive back at the original arrangement they started with demonstrates they adore every inch of the meticulous decision making that goes into concocting an ERISKA track. It's nothing short of masterful.   

Establishing everyone's particular role in the band seems to have been the key to their success thus far. Fiddle player Madeline Stewart is seen as 'gaffer of the tunes', writing many of the melodies that kick start the band's creative process. Drummer Gavin Paterson, with his own recording studio, is known for his attention to detail when it comes to laying down tracks. Bassist Julian Pombo and guitarist  Dario Palazzo both attend the Jazz and Popular music courses respectively at Glasgow's Royal Conservatoire and equally bring their own style of playing and composing to the table. Aileen is the self-confessed nagger of the group who ensures everyone is where they need to be. Last to join was Piper Scott Figgins, whose commitment to the cause from the outset seriously impressed the others, proving he was the missing jigsaw piece they needed. "A month before the Danny Kyle Open Stage gig at Celtic Connections, Aileen sent me all the tracks and I constantly had them on repeat until I'd learned the entire set list for my first rehearsal with the band"-Scott. Growing up in Pipe bands, Scott was keen to now delve in to more contemporary genres, enjoying a challenge and the chance to play alongside like-minded musicians. "We each have our own musical interests and influences and in turn, have our own style of playing which helps to create a unique sound"-Scott. Almost without a Piper for their first live performance, the band were also nameless for quite sometime. Concentrating more on producing music, they were forced to select a name for their debut gig. "We wanted something Scottish sounding but nothing too twee. It also couldn't be so obscure that people would struggle to pronounce it . I just went on Goggle maps, scrolled about and came across a wee tiny island off the coast of Oban called Eriska and that was it"-Aileen. 

Prior to being chosen to perform at the festival, ERISKA's music had only been accessible via Soundcloud and so the prospect of a live audience was exciting. "It was great to experience playing our music to an audience. We also had the added pressure of being featured on TV and radio stations but it went down really well"-Aileen. Following on from the success of that particular performance, the band were invited to feature on STV's Live at Five programme and now, they've got the performing bug, working on extending their repertoire and keen to get playing more live gigs. Planning to host their own band night inviting other groups to perform, they hope to grow their fan base and get their music heard. "My family are the first to like anything we put on Facebook. I can't wait until someone we don't know likes our posts!"-Aileen.

The passion for music, the belief in the band and the sheer enjoyment they get from working together is evident. The lengthy recording process, the leg-work of finding gigs, time-management with their other commitments in the mix and everything else that comes with a managing a band and producing music doesn't scare but excites them. A somewhat unconventional start, with lead guitarist Dario recording all his parts before ever meeting the other band members and the last minute introduction of Scott to the line-up is all part of their story and a testament of their commitment to making it work. ERISKA are a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary; business and pleasure. Fuelled by the fun, driven by the artistry. Inspired by the old, ignited by the new and innovative. 

Get listening to their music, start following them on their journey as I suspect big things are on the horizon for ERSIKA! 

First album you bought?

Scott- "The Black Eyed Peas 'Elephunk'" 

Aileen- "It was an album with Steps and S Club 7 on it. I thought I was so cool walking around the house with my portable cassette player" 

Where's your happy place?

Scott- "I have two-on stage playing bangin' tunes to a large crowd but then equally I love the tranquillity of the golf course!"

Aileen-"I love the RCS Cafe. There's always someone you can chat to!"

Ultimate dinner party guest?

Scott- "Darcey Bussell"

Aileen- "My gran. Her craic was brilliant! She could talk all day about nothing!"

Biggest pet peeve?

Scott- "Untidiness! It's my OCD! My girlfriend leaves her breakfast dishes in the sink, her clothes on the floor as she knows I'll be right behind her cleaning it all up"

Aileen- "I have multiple. Disorganised people and people that read your messages and don't reply. I'm just super organised!"

Last song that was stuck in your head?

Aileen- "Deacon Blue's 'Dignity'. I was playing it in another band and kept having to go over and over this one bit!"

Scott-"The chorus of Taylor Swift's 'Trouble'-all because of that screaming goat video online!"

ERISKA's Facebook
https://en-gb.facebook.com/eriskaband/




Watch ERISKA
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFwdvj63FOMd7DTtq_qTzmw

Speak Now or Forever Haud Yer Weesht!

Us Scots have ai had a way wi words. Footerin' aboot with the English language we've coined patter to express our optimistic, (at times) brutally honest and banter-fuelled outlook on life. I've personally always admired the brave, no-nonsense approach to offering opinion and advice in our own unique fashion, married with our compassion for our fellow neibor.  We’re a’ Jock Tamson’s bairns after all and if you need a boot up the bahookie you're in guid company, as some of our most commonly used Scottish phrases will have you realising you're a lang time deid.

Finding the right words can make or break the most poignant of moments. Agonising in the supermarket over buying a birthday or sympathy card stems from our desire to express ourselves accurately- we want to say it all but by using a few choice words that get across our genuine sentiment. We Scots excel in keeping it concise, summarising our words of wisdom or  observations on life into some neat little ditty that is bound to hit the nail on the head every time. Some of the most commonly used Scottishisms have stood the test of time because they help convey something perfectly without faff or fodder.

But why bother? Why not just tell it like everyone else? Finding your way of saying something to make it yours, to make it more memorable, have it make more of an impact or invoke a reaction is essentially the mission of every  Creative. Thinking outside of the box, colouring outside of the lines, taking the scenic route is the journey you embark on to have your unique voice heard. Crafting and fine tuning the way in which you speak to your audience is a real expression of you as an artist. One Creative's Que sera sera is another's Whit's fur ye'll no go by ye and so, although the message may be the same, the language is very different and that is where the magic lies. Whilst there may be billions of love songs in the world, each artist painstakingly carves out their own distinct dialogue, setting them apart from all others. In a way, it's less about what you say and more critical how you say it. The Creative is always conscious that their voice comes across crystal clear within their work, that it won't be confused with that of another. They concoct their own language and in doing so give something of their self with every creation. As a nation,  we Scots unapologetically pride ourselves on the colloquialisms and quips that slip into our vernacular day in day out, because we know that when we're being the truest version of ourselves we are being heard loud and clear. So like us patter-merchants in Bonnie Scotland, artists across the globe endeavour to express their wit, wisdom and opinion in a way that will make folks sit up, haud their weesht and take note and to me, that's the brawest and bravest quality of them all. It's unique....it's yersel! 

How to La La Land your Happily Ever After

I'm no film buff, nor am I an avid frequenter of my local multiplex, lining up to bag the best seats in the house for the latest blockbusters the second they are released.  I feel my admission of being a novice excuses any opinion that I may be about to put out into the ether that 'experts' may find fault with. Going to see La La Land, starring the Hollywood powerhouses, Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling, I had formed an idea of what the film would be. Wrong move right there! Why I chose to decide what it was all about (or what I thought it should be) in advance, I do not know. Was I  let down? No, not at all. Just surprised I guess and with surprise, there's always that moment of questioning the whos, whys, whats and wheres....which led me to writing this. 

I think La La Land challenges what a movie musical once was and has been up until this point. Tipping it's oh so dapper, yet modern hat to the golden era of film, not only does it juxtaposition the vintage with the shiny new but creates an entire uncharted version of what a movie musical can be. I could complain that I expected more dance scenes or that the dream sequence wasn't long enough or that there weren't as many songs as I'd hoped for but in doing so, I'd be saying there's a correct way of doing things and well, maybe there's not. Where's the instruction manual or mould that all movie musicals should adhere to in order to be classed as successful? I doubt they exist, or at least, I believe that they shouldn't. The attention to detail was impeccable throughout, with the cinematography, set design, wardrobe and choreography alone all harmonising beautifully to have you comfortably suspended somewhere between the past and the present. There's no way that all of those choices were flippantly tossed in to the mix without careful consideration. So if i were to question the integrity and intentions of Director Damien Chazelle, I'd framing his decisions as bi-products of laziness or lack of imagination. I think my preconceived ideas being unfounded left me a smidgen shell shocked and in limbo state of loving the film for challenging what I thought it would be and feeling uncomfortable with it's body swerve away from what we know and love of the classic movie musical.

As the credits started to roll, my mum's first words to me were "Well that was weird!" and yeah, it was, if by 'weird' you mean bold and somewhat brave. Without spoiling it entirely for those who haven't seen it yet, in harking back to a time that we often look to through rose tinted spectacles of idealism and romance and placing it in the here and now, the film reminds us that much of what we consume as entertainment via TV, film and the Internet nowadays is reality. We are obsessed with turning the mirror on ourselves and analysing every fragment of our being. You can't move for reality programmes and I wonder, what is all this real life stuff doing for the soul? We no longer crave escapism and have forgotten how to dream the impossible dream. Floating on clouds, tapping dancing at sunset and your eyes meeting over a crowded room as you fall head over heels in love are all possible in a movie musical and in the cynical, downtrodden, disillusioned reality we often face day to day, we should be seeking out the wonderment and whimsical worlds that the expressive arts can capture and transport you to. I love a real life story turned box-office smash as much as the next person but as La La Land lifts you off to a place where you dare to dream real life doesn't seem so appealing anymore. 

What really impresses me about this film is, just as you give yourself over to the song and dance, La La Land flips everything on it's head and shows us that, whilst we can get lost in nostalgia and romance, we are indeed living our #reallives with not so picture perfect, happily ever after endings. Sounds depressing, eh? But in selecting the best of what films like Singing in the Rain and The Sound of Music have to offer, it then marries that with something we can relate to in the present day-something more tangible. In combining both worlds, it encourages you to consider the the what-ifs and pipe dreams we often suppress but also forces us to consider the Hollywood ending to not be the be all and end all-that finding our destiny, even when it looks very different to the one we'd hoped for, can still be a triumph. It teaches us that maybe there are struggles, disappointments and difficult decisions to be met with but if we allow our imaginations to soar and our inhibitions to dissolve, we'll find those moments of pure joy that will have is dancing in the rain. 

Will You #brawitbraveit?

Hey there 2017ers!

The Braw and The Brave NEED YOU...... to get CREATIVE! 

I want the blog and it's social media sites to be a place where EVERYONE can be creative so I introduce to you BRAW-IT BRAVE-IT- an invitation for you to SHARE YOUR CREATIVITY! 

A doodle on an electricity bill envelope; a photo of that really nice building you saw on your way to work; your first attempt at origami; a wee poem your wrote on a birthday card! Anything goes! The beauty of being creative is that you can do no wrong! I'm not looking for masterpieces....just having a go! 

If being creative/arty/'one of those folk that makes stuff' seems alien to you, why not be brave and give it a bash?! Taking time to lose yourself in creating something from scratch can be good for the mind and soul! Sharing this with others can open up a world of possibilities! 

Share your BRAW-IT BRAVE-ITs on our Twitter, Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag 

#brawitbraveit and I'll be sure to share them with others to inspire conversation, appreciation & more creativity! 

Happy creating peeps!

Lis x

The Braw and The Brave Meet....Martin Corcoran

Meet Martin Corcoran, Senior Tutor at the community music charity, Reeltime Music in North Lanarkshire. I am already feeling rather guilty about labelling him with a singular job title, as in reality, what Martin does on a day to day basis would blow the minds of the busiest of multitaskers. Martin has grown up with the charity and indeed, Reeltime with him. From humble beginnings in the late nineties, Martin and Project Manager Ryan Currie invested the blood, sweat and tears required to elevate what started as a room with a drum kit and some amps, to the multifaceted organisation which sees literally 1000s of young people each year being supported and given opportunities through the arts. Music tuition, song writing, recording and music video production, Reeltime’s goal is to spark confidence within their participants to explore their own potential within a safe, friendly, relaxed and encouraging environment. Their story to date is extremely inspiring and the success of Reeltime and in particular, its youth work, has been possible because of the drive and determination of those who believed in it enough to make it a reality.

Martin’s love of music started at a young age and although it was sport he had initially considered as a career path, when his best mate’s dad had given him a handful of guitar lessons, told him to "bugger off and learn the rest yourself!" , he soon realised where his passion and a natural talent lay. Immersing himself in learning to play guitar riffs and the chords to his favourite songs, Martin could usually be found in the school’s music department or at a local youth music group (later named, Reeltime) devoting much of his time to being in bands and creating music.  With his heart set on studying Electronics with Music at the University of Glasgow, the slight, if not vital issue of not having a qualification in music didn’t faze him. With his eye on the prize he was given the go-ahead by his school to crash Higher Music in his final year, achieving the ‘B’ he needed to get on to the course. His appetite to learn everything there was to know and to hone his skills saw him use his student loan to buy all the equipment he needed to have his own set up at home. “Studio techniques were my thing, I’d record anyone and anything just to get the experience!”

Martin’s commitment to his studies and his craft is impressive but it’s his relationship with Reeltime, spanning almost 20 years and his dedication to the cause (particularly in the early years) that is truly inspirational.  Throughout his time at university, Martin became Chairperson of Reeltime’s Management Committee and with the group’s determination, the formation of new partnerships with other organisations and endless funding applications resulted in Reeltime finally being able to build a recording studio in 2003- coincidently the same year Martin graduated from university. Enthused by their achievements thus far, Martin made the bold decision to continue working at the charity unpaid for a further year, helping to steer them towards further growth and success. Martin, Ryan and joining staff over the years have developed a strong bond and have equally invested their time, energy and life’s work to making Reeltime a place for young people to be creative and become more confident in their abilities, providing endless opportunities to try new things, discover hidden talents and form relationships with like-minded people. Closely collaborating with the local council, as well as organisations such as Creative Scotland and The Princes Trust, tailor-made projects are created to suit the needs of the participants to ensure they are providing a service that does more than just tick the boxes- Reeltime’s work touches lives, makes a difference and gives young people a chance.  “My job has completely changed over the years and will change again. Now it’s more about working with young people to get them engaging and building on their skills and organising projects.....every day is different and I love that!”. Speaking with Martin it’s evident that his love affair with Reeltime has never wavered. He is immensely proud (quite rightly so!) of what the ever-growing team has achieved and he clearly gets that same kick out of the job that started out as hobby aged 16.  “It’s really unique. Other organisations now come to us to model their forms of practise on how we do things at Reeltime! I’m so proud of our reputation and what we’ve been able to do.”   

As with any demanding career, it’s often difficult to make time or muster the energy in your precious downtime for hobbies or interests and Martin admits that up until recently he’d been finding less and less time to practise his instrument. All that changed when he received a phone call from an old school friend 2 years year ago looking for a guitarist for his Thin Lizzy tribute band, Still Lizzy. “It was the kick up the backside that I needed. I hadn’t played in bands for about 5 or 6 years and although it was such a busy period in my life I was determined to do it….and learned 17 Thin Lizzy songs in the space of 3 weeks!”. The band have enjoyed great success playing gigs up and down the country and getting the opportunity to perform and work with fellow musicians is something which Martin considers a real source of inspiration. Mentoring, tutoring, planning, facilitating, recording and delivering are momentarily laid carefully to one side as he is given the chance to step on stage and relive his earlier years of being a musician and it only being about the music.  He recognises the benefits of taking time out to do something he enjoys and to be creative. “It’s about trying to keep a balance! It’s difficult but you almost need to force yourself to take that time to do something for you creatively!”

In addition to playing guitar, his love of song writing from a young age had also fell by the way side over the years and pinpoints joining the Still Lizzy as the catalyst to him releasing his recently completed EP Background Noise Dusting off melodies and lyrics he’d written in his teens and early 20s, Martin decided this summer was the time to finally record and produce the music he’d planned to for several years but never quite found the time to make it happen. Past failed attempts to get other musicians on board, he made the decision to go solo, writing every part, playing every instrument and recording his 6 chosen tracks at his home studio. “The music I write isn’t the kind of music I listen to which I find quite strange! It’s more like the music I listened to when I was about 16. However my playing style has changed. When I was younger it was all about long, intricate guitar riffs…..now it’s more about a nice melody and meaningful lyrics”. What Martin aims to instil in the young people he works with day in day out is the importance of play and being creative- something which he’d forgotten to allow himself to do. “The Picasso quote ‘Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up’ is so true. Everyone wants to play, whether you’re 3 or 63! I just had to get it done, get it out there and let people listen to it!”.

Martin is a grafter and will be ungrudgingly generous with his time, energy and expertises to assist others in their creative journey. He adores music and values the power it has to literally change and shape lives.  As a Creative, however difficult it can sometime be, he continues to dedicate time to his instrument and maintains an element of play to keep those all-important juices flowing. He loves what he does and he does what he loves! Now, if that’s not inspiring, I don’t know what is! 

What’s on you iPod right now?

“Recently I’ve been listening to Spotify’s ‘Discover Weekly’ playlist when I do the dishes. That’s where I discovered Zervas and Pepper- their sound is reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac”

Favourite Scottish word/phrase?

“Aye man! I say it all the time!”

What would you like to overhear someone say about you?

“He’s a good guy!”

Biggest pet peeve

“Untidiness”

Who is Braw or Brave?

“My idol Bruce Lee-it’s amazing what he was able to achieve in his short life. What he had to overcome in his life to achieve what he did is just unreal”

Favourite Smell?

“Playdo-I have a tub on my bedside cabinet. When I smell it takes me back to my childhood, in my aunt’s house aged 7 playing with my cousins. It has to be real Playdo though-not the fake stuff!”

I’m happiest when…..

“Chillin’….or when I’m playing!”

What advice would you give your teenage self?

“Push yourself more. I used to be a shy person and although I was confident in a practical sense I found it hard to speak up and give my opinion on things!”

Check out Martin’s EP Background Noise:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/background-noise-ep/id1153272629

Check out Still Lizzy :

https://www.facebook.com/Still-Lizzy-1458591184453717/

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad......YOU?!

As a Creative person fervently working away, honing your craft and attempting to make an honest crust in the process, it’s often difficult to find the time or the inclination to pop your head up out of the rabbit hole every once in a while to assess what it is that is making (or indeed breaking!) a success of the career you’re lovingly carving out for yourself.  It’s inevitable you’ll be in a constant state of changing, challenging and tweaking your skills, practice and end product but taking in to consideration what your other selling points are can be a real eye opener….and hopefully, will ultimately involve opening some doors too.  Yes you want to deliver the best possible body of work you can-one that you’re certain your audiences/clients/fans will devour and delight in. However what I personally have found is a real key in the world of freelance and being a Creative is your personality. Credentials and accolades aside, what gets your two feet in the door and under the table is the YOU in it all. Allowing your personality to come through in every aspect of your creative life I think is essential to achieving those successes you aim for. 

‘People buy people not products’ is a phrase that resonates with me. Yes I can dance, choreograph and teach well but a lot of the feedback I receive is not always focused on the content of my lessons or the work I present but how I was received by others when I was delivering that session or that particular project. If I allow myself to be the truest version of me, even in the most professional of situations or environments and remain confident in who I am, I know I will be better equipped to deliver the goods. This also rings true in scenarios where I haven’t even got the job yet. If I go to a meeting or interview about a potential choreography job, yes my knowledge and prior experience is paramount but of course, they will have been the driving force behind me getting the interview in the first place. The next step is to let my personality and the drive and excitement I have for the work I do shine through. If someone is considering working with or hiring you to do what you do best, they want to feel like YOU are the one they need, as well as your work being the perfect fit.

Now reading this back to myself, I fear it may appear that I'm somehow implying it’s all about charming your way up some career ladder or indeed that I consider myself to have this awe-inspiring, totes amaze-balls personality that folks just can’t resist!. It’s not that at all!  Most Creatives will tell you that they aren't preoccupied with any manner of climbing apparatus, after all what goes up, must come down. There is no ladder, no end point nor final goal for creative types and so, a life’s work is only about new experiences, new information and new connections.  In my experience, in order to take full advantage of one’s ability as a Creative it’s important to play to your strengths and worry less about what you consider to be your weaknesses. YOU are your own unique selling point and not being afraid to allow your personality stretch it’s (fabulous!) legs can be a real barrier between you and your potential. If you’re funny, caring, witty, whatever you feel is you at your best, it’s vital you don’t dull that sparkle for fear of appearing unprofessional or less committed or focused in a work setting. If you are being you, you are relaxed and feel more confident in even the most unfamiliar of settings. In turn, those around you will be motivated, inspired or comforted by how at ease you are and they will feel more able to be themselves. This creates the optimum environment for creativity to flourish! Simples!

We can all think of that one person that, whenever you're with them, they are always the same way. It's refreshing to be in the company of someone who is at ease and is confident that their unique personality will suffice in any situation. They don't feel compelled to mask or alter who they are for each new encounter and that's inspiring stuff right there. In a world that at time feels preoccupied with concealing who we are, in favour of a contoured, enhanced version of the truth, it's empowering to identify and celebrate what makes us the person we are. It isn't about nailing the interview, getting the job and making the big bucks- Que sera sera! Essentially,  if you be you, creatively sparks will fly and we all live for those kind of fireworks!  

Now go DO YOU! x