It's unbelievable that September is already here. For me, this year has been a journey of self-discovery and new paths.

In May, a yoga retreat in Kefalonia opened my mind to many new creative ways of being, new friends, and an opportunity to explore art and its therapeutic benefits in the beautiful Greek countryside.

This has proved to be a most satisfying period where I have been able to bring the benefits of my creative practice to others and to facilitate their appreciation of artistic pursuits and wellbeing.

To further develop what I can offer, I am delighted to say that I will soon be working from a new garden studio offering more scope for what can be explored. I have lots of ideas for workshops and taster classes in lots of different mediums.

In the meantime, art sessions continue on a weekly basis around my kitchen table, and it's quite amazing looking back over the past 18 months at what my students have achieved in terms of their learning prowess and growing confidence in their ability to try new things.

On my Instagram page (@ritathorn) I regularly post images from our weekly sessions, so do take a look.

More great news is that I have just joined Chipping Campden Art Society, who meet each week in a lovely space in the ancient Cotswold village of Chipping Campden—a beautiful setting in which to find inspiration.

What a delightful and talented group they are and what a lovely welcome I received! They are a very active group that regularly hold demonstration mornings in a range of art practices and create two opportunities each year to showcase their work. It is so inspiring to be working with others and to share ideas and practices.

So, lots of events coming up for the Autumn and Winter season. Watch this space! Happy painting everyone.