Externalizing my View & Immortalizing my Memories • by Jill Geraghty-Groves

One of my earliest memories to do with art would definitely have to include my grandmother (now no longer with us). She was a milliner and tailoress, and I always remember her making things, sewing, beading, etc. She was amazing and always took the time to be interested in what I was doing.

For as long as I remember, I have created art. I was one of those kids who used to draw or make “things” all the time. I remember getting letters sent home from as early as kindergarten and primary school about my “artistic abilities” but I never took it seriously. Unfortunately it wasn’t until I was in my early forties that I took the time to notice how much pleasure art brought me! Now (at almost 46) I couldn't imagine life without it.

I don't know that I've discovered a preferred medium as of yet. I have only recently begun working with metal and I am loving it. I still adore working with vintage papers, fabrics, etc. though and love trying to incorporate them all.

Appearing at Unlikely Times
When I start creating for myself, the main thing for me is to completely NOT think about what I'm doing … I tend to be one of the people who overthinks so it’s important for my creativity NOT to do that! If I can't get to my art, I try and take photographs (as I love photography too), or indulge myself in playing the piano.

Creativity has the knack of appearing at the most unlikely of times. It is therapy for me, as it is for most of us. As the mum of three boys, two of them on the autistic spectrum, life is rarely “relaxing” at home. Before I rediscovered art in late 2005, my stresses and anxieties were turned inward for many years, resulting in long-term chronic depression. Art has given me a way to externalize my view of the world … even if it’s just for fun or to reveal a secret side of myself that no one could possibly guess. It has become a vehicle for the immortalizing memories that are vivid in my mind, it expresses honesties that I might otherwise not reveal, and it presents pure and utter freedom from what is sometimes a challenging “reality.”

To learn more about Jill Geraghty-Groves, visit jillgg.typepad.com.

Comments

[Jen Crossley]

Dear Jilly,
Your are an amazing artist and Mother ,Im so glad that our love of art has brought you into my life we share a passion for creating.You inspire me in art and life with our children helping each other deal with our childrens health issues.
Your approach to your art is very unique I love it to bit's.
Art does save lives it has yours and mine
Jen Crossley

[Ellen]

Jilly, I am so happy you found your safety valve, a healing way to express your self and release your fears. Art moves us forward when we allow the free reign of it to take hold. I
enjoyed your story! I am glad you shared it; I am happy you
freed your depression, by sharing your soul's gift, your art!