Deborah's Story
In 2002 I won a competition for a three month course on life coaching with Fiona. Although keen to implement changes in my life it must be appreciated that I had won a competition not parted with hard earned cash so I suppose I was a little sceptical and, if I'm honest, slightly unconvinced that Fiona would be able to change my life.
However, I'm one to make the best of any situation, and after my initial consultation I put the 'phone down with a silly grin spread from ear to ear. This lady was pure dynamo. She didn't give me the excuses I wanted to hear but lead me on a journey of self enlightenment and vision.
Her advice was, practical, sensible and at times downright obvious, she had a skill in making me answer my own queries. Failure wasn't on the agenda and if I wavered I was encouraged to move on and put it down to experience.
Initially, I wanted no more than to get my work exhibited in a gallery, but after I'd achieved this ambition with three galleries plus exhibiting alongside artists like Hirst, Shepherd and Hockney. I became disillusioned with the set up. I wanted more; I am on the path to succession and that means looking for more opportunites and openings.
By changing my attitude, opportunities started presenting themselves to me. I had reviews in newspapers and magazines both on a local and national level. People started talking about my work ( My paintings have raised areas and durable to make them tactile. (No-one I am aware has ever tried to make art so accessible but I have a fundamental belief that touching is as important, and instinctive, as looking when appreciating art).
I set up my own website in May this year (http://www.Deborahjoys.com) became involved with a group of like minded individuals who are campaigning for a gallery in Essex. This gallery will be huge although the area has yet to be finalised. Three sites are being considered and European funds are being applied for.
To continue I have just had my artwork again featured on a magazine, this time on the cover, with a respectful audience of 45,000. I am working on some illustrations for a series of books with an aspiring author ( and retired Headteacher) that looks at reading schemes for the pre school child. We are also providing workbooks from KS1 - KS2 that are designed to retain the childrens' interest but also provide invaluable support for the parent. We currently have one major publisher showing interest.
My whole outlook has changed for the better. I am positive, happy, I believe in myself and I have every belief that everything I set my mind too I will achieve. I don't give up at the first obstacle and if presented with difficulties I look to different options to manoeuvre through them.
Deborah
