a long creative sabbatical

Ok, well here it is. I am sad to say that Twinkle Star Art is now officially closed for business indefinitely. My website will remain open and my gallery of artwork will be available for viewing. I might even drop in on my blog occasionally and rattle on about whatever comes to mind.

My decision has not been made lightly, it has been after months of soul searching. Running Twinkle Star Art and a family of three young children has really taken it's toll on me physically and mentally. The business, promotion and online networking side of it takes up so much precious time. I'm left with very little time to actually draw. I love creating, I want to do more of that and less of the other.

Currently I'm exploring a new creative path, one which will not require any online networking or business planning at this stage. I've rediscovered my love for writing – most probably because I started this blog. I'm in the process of exploring this further, and I'll see where that leads me. I wish I could explore my writing and keep Twinkle Star Art running, but it's just not possible at this point in time. Hopefully doable in the future.

Thank you to everyone who emailed or left warm thoughts of encouragement on my blog and facebook page. Please don't be concerned for me as I'm happy with my decision. And it's quite liberating actually. I'd like to think of it as taking a very long creative sabbatical. Just unfortunate that I have to close one door in order to open another. (I will keep Twinkle Star Art's key safely tucked away, so that I can reopen that door if I wish to return later).

Thank you also to all my customers for your support. I'm really sorry if this change has inconvenienced anyone.

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On a more cheerful note... it's time to announce the winner of my latest Noah's Ark giveaway. 17 was the lucky number that came up on Random.org random number generator. AND the winner is... Le from beyond whoop, whoop (gees let's hope you get postmen out your way!). I'll be in touch shortly for a postal address to send your prize. Congratulations!!!

Comments

[le@whoopwhoop]

thanks so much - it's le - and yes we get post twice a week ... when we are not flooded in ...when we are flooded they hold the mail in Mt Isa or get a plane to drop in in ... am off to have one more look now ... and writing - sounds fab ... mothering is tough let alone running a business too ... le xoox

[sarah-jo]

please do keep in touch on your blog as it will be lovely to here all the exciting new things happening for you!

Im sure this creative sabatical will be wonderful for you and your family, much love to you xxxx

SJ

[Samantha]

I can't wait to see what's in store for you Amanda and wish you all the best in your new venture! Good on you for taking the plunge!!

I'll most definately miss our 'artist/mother/crazy children' connection :)

[Sharon Williams]

I'm sorry to see Twinkle Star Art close but applaud you for making a desicsion thats right for you. I wish you all the best in your new direction.

[Rebecca]

I'm sad about Twinkle closing but I'm so happy for you for making this decision. I think it's so important to re-evaluate creativity, family time and your own personal happiness and health. It's so exciting that you're taking the time to do some writing, it sounds like the perfect step forward for you. All the best Amanda, and I'll see you around the BrisStyle traps anyway I hope xx

[sandrine]

I think it is wonderful Amanda that you have made a decision that makes you happy and will make your life happier...I hope I will still be able to be in touch somehow?
Whatever you have decided, Well done and best of luck!

[Ali]

Balancing family, business and creativity is always a struggle. All the best for the next stage of your journey.

[Chrisy]

Sounds as if you're following your heart Amanda and this is always a good thing...take care...

[miriam]

I wish you all the best too as you venture through a new door!

[Robyn Dixon]

You will be sorely missed Amanda, but you have your priorities in the correct order. Those years when the children are small are precious and they go in the blink of an eye. Please keep in touch and let us know how your plans are progressing.

Take care,

Robyn

[Tracy]

I'm sad that you'll be closing your art shop but I'm excited about your future plans. I hope your new venture is everything you hope it to be. I just know that I'll be seeing lovely illustrated books by you in the not too distant future Amanda. You have such talent. Both as an illustrator and as a writer. Please don't be a stranger. Keep in touch! Please? I'd love to know how you're going. Hey you should start a writers blog now! Thanks so much for your friendship over the years and for all the rides to BrisStyle gatherings and for visiting my little blog and all the rest. I remember I joined BrisStyle way back when because of you! It's been an absolute pleasure to get to know you & keep in touch. Or else! I mean it. Don't make me get heavy with you. I know where you live! :D xoxo

[Kate]

Good for you! It is so hard to make these big decisions but at the end of the day your little ones need you right now and that is the most important thing of all. I hope you find yourself full of inspiration and creativity. XX