From Chaos to Calm: How Painting Became My Quiet Space

A little behind the scenes into how I (Jade) returned to my original love, painting, after quite the hiatus...

Life has a way of keeping us busy, doesn’t it? Between the children, endless lists, and running Bitesize Bakehouse, I had more than enough to fill my days. Baking was wonderfully creative — I loved crafting edible art that tied into weddings, parties, and seasonal celebrations. But in many ways, the creativity was guided: colours, themes, and details shaped by the event and the people I was baking for.

It was joyful, but structured. Over time, I realised I was craving a space where creativity could be unbound — no plan, no theme, no brief. Just me, some colours, and the freedom to play.

Leaning into the Brush

Picking up my paintbrush again felt like coming home. At first, it was simply an hour stolen here or there, a way to carve out some time just for me. But it quickly became more than that. With music in my headphones or an audiobook playing, I’d get lost in the colours — bold splashes one day, softer washes the next. It didn’t need to be anything more than that: a chance to move paint around, follow a feeling, and see where it landed.

Painting What I Feel

My work is rarely planned in detail. I lean into intuition and paint how I feel in the moment. Some days, that means big brushstrokes and vibrant colours, full of energy and light. Other days, it’s slower, softer, and more reflective. Whether I’m painting florals, seascapes, or more abstract impressions, it’s always about capturing a feeling rather than chasing perfection.

In many ways, it’s the opposite of my baking days. Instead of following a set brief, painting gives me permission to let go — to explore, experiment, and surprise myself along the way.

Colour as Calm

The more I painted, the more I noticed the ripple effect at home too. The walls began to fill with colour, and with that came a shift in atmosphere: calmer, warmer, more us. It reminded me how much art can change not just a room, but how we feel in it.

Now, painting isn’t just something I do for myself — it’s something I love sharing. Each piece holds that same sense of play and presence, ready to bring its own mood, energy, and story into someone else’s home.

Art doesn’t have to be complicated or overthought. Sometimes it’s just about colour, mood, and the way a piece makes you feel when you walk past it every day. For me, painting is my calm. For you, I hope it’s an invitation to bring a little more joy, light, or reflection into your space!

The Journey of Rediscovery

Returning to painting has been a journey of rediscovery. It’s like dusting off an old book and finding that the story still resonates. Each brushstroke tells a tale, a moment captured in time. I often find myself reminiscing about the early days of my artistic journey.

Do you remember the first time you created something that made your heart race? That feeling of pure joy, when everything else fades away? It’s magical. I encourage you to seek that feeling again. Whether it’s through painting, drawing, or any form of art, let your creativity flow.

Finding Your Artistic Voice

As I’ve explored my artistic side, I’ve also learned about the importance of finding my voice. Each artist has a unique perspective, a way of seeing the world that’s entirely their own. Embrace yours! What colours speak to you? What themes resonate?

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try new techniques, mix unexpected colours, and let your intuition guide you. Remember, art is a personal journey. It’s about expressing who you are and how you feel.

Sharing the Love

Creating art is wonderful, but sharing it is even better. I love seeing how my pieces find new homes, how they resonate with others. Each artwork carries a piece of my heart, and when someone connects with it, it’s like a little spark of joy.

If you’re thinking about adding art to your space, consider what speaks to you. What do you want to feel when you walk into a room? Let that guide your choices. And if you’re ever in doubt, I’m here to help you find that perfect piece that feels like you.

If this post resonated, take a moment to look at the walls around you — what story are they telling? And if you’d like help finding art that feels like you, I’d love to chat. Reach out to me on almacarastudio@gmail.com and let's talk about how we can inject some more of you into your home!

Conclusion

Art is a journey, a playful exploration of colours and feelings. It’s about finding joy in the process and allowing yourself to be free. So, grab that paintbrush, or whatever medium speaks to you, and let’s create something beautiful together.

Let’s fill our homes with colour, personality, and good vibes. After all, art is not just for galleries; it’s for living spaces, for us, and for the joy it brings.