Is Whitby the most inspirational place on Earth for artists? Well I think so…
I love Julia Cameron’s concept of the ‘artist’s date’. A solo trip to somewhere that interests you to spark imagination, whimsy and play.
She suggests doing it weekly. I need to buck my ideas up! But I have just returned from my artist’s mini break and I’m certainly feeling whimsical, inspired and full of creativity.
Whitby is one of my favourite places in the world. It is full of history, myths, higgledy corners to explore and breathtaking views. It’s my third time tripping there alone and I never, ever get bored of it.
Over the past few days I’ve witnessed stunning sunsets, found an ammonite on the beach, rubbed shoulders with several pirates who were readily wondering the streets, explored the famous abbey ruins up close and written my first ever story featuring a mermaid.
Between all the walking around and shopping at Whitby Bookshop, I’ve come away with five new short pieces drafted, two blog posts and a head full of ideas. They will need some sorting through! I’d highly recommend trying your own artist’s date. Even if you don’t get any ‘art’ done, it’s great for the soul and will fill your mind with new material.
Also big shout out to Zed and Emma at Riviera Guesthouse for the warm welcome, providing the perfect sea-view bolt hole and fresh Whitby kippers on a morning. I will be back!
Now, to plan my next artist’s date…
Janelle Hardacre 