We live in an age of gadgetry, designed to save us 'time'. Auto washers clean our clothes with ever increasing speed, vacuum cleaners have gone 'turbo', machines can wash our dishes, we can buy pre-prepared meals that will cook in micro minutes, use remote controls to switch on tv's and sound systems that will entertain us in the comfort of our own homes, and cars and trains will transport us to our destination faster than ever. So what do we do with all this time we have apparently saved???

Over the years as a working artist and tutor I have encountered a new mantra - 'I just haven't got the time'.... But how can this be?? Haven't all these gadgets gifted us all far more free time? We all have obligations, but what has become more and more apparent over the years is that many of us do not feel able to allow ourselves time to 'play'. Creative pursuits can all too often be regarded as perhaps a luxury, indulgence, childish, or non-essential.

Even in schools the role of play in all its glorious diversity (art, music, drama, sport, creative writing et al) has all too often been downgraded, oft times it is considered far less important in curriculums. But what message is this giving to our children? And when we as adults do not take time out to express our creative selves, are we not denying ourselves access to a precious gift? Imagine a world without music, without paintings, without poetry, novels, without drama? How dull would it be, It is these very things that make our world magical, special, and it is these things that help colour and brighten our world.

If as adults we do not take time out to express our creative selves, are we not denying ourselves access to a precious gift? There is nothing quite as magical as writing some carefully chosen words to lift a friend's spirits, designing and making a special card, painting a picture with your child or grandchildren. Being creative is to allow oneself to be spontaneous, to find that place within yourself and express aspects of your inner being that perhaps cannot be expressed in words, but can be evoked in the daubs of a paintbrush.

Many artists, crafters, call them what you will, describe a sense of wellbeing that is utterly profound, a space where time has no meaning, and one is lost in the thrall of that connection to the creative essence. Some call this experience 'the sacred void, or the hollow vessel' and it is said that all creative action comes to us as the hollow vessels via the Creator...The people of the Lakota nation say that it is the journey you take when being creative that is most important, the end result, less so. Give young children access to paper and paints and they will daub colour and express themselves with enthusiasm and verve.

These children will not stand back and critique their work, the house is too big, there is too much blue. No, they enjoy the journey for what it is. Yet all too often I see older children lacking confidence in their creative abilities, and perhaps in time they abandon their creative pursuits altogether. Are you one of those children, now grown, who never finds time for creative play??? If you are, I urge you to reclaim the creative spark that lies within you. Give that spark light, give it air, give it expression, and give yourself the gift of precious time.

Create on your own, create with your children, your grandchildren, your friends, most of all, enjoy the journey, see where it takes you. I have no doubt it will be somewhere magical, and that it will help to provide you with a sense of wellbeing that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.

Here at BSSK, adults and children alike can rekindle that creative spark, The Creativity Zone offer a variety of arts and crafts at no charge. All we ask is that children are accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times (for health and safety reasons). Have fun, it's free, it's friendly, and it's for you. For children we offer a magical journey with Faeries, Mermaids and all things magical, tales of adventures, tales of other realms, our Treasure hunts are great family fun, and again, they are free. So call at the admissions desk and get your Treasure Hunt Quester Pack and begin the journey. On completion of the quest your child will receive a special faerie thank you gift and certificate.

If you have any queries about any aspect of arts and crafts, questions about Faeries, or just want to chat, see Vanya The Faerie Lady, she can be found at the Creative Sprit Stand, usually located near Magik Thread, the large bookstand. Come along, have a chat, be creative, have some fun...

Vanya, The Faerie Lady, Sacred Earth, Sacred Art.