Welcome to episode FIFTY! of the Me Skills Podcast, where we lean into self-love and great ideas that build a better life. In today’s episode, Kelly and Tish have special guest Elaine Allen, artist, art teacher, and retreat leader of amazing art experiences in Italy. From navigating self-doubt and overcoming personal and family challenges, to the practical steps of taking a leap (and a long flight!), Elaine chats about her inspiring journey of saying yes to her dream and organizing art experiences in Italy! Listen in as Kelly, Elaine, and Tish talk about the power of community, the ripple effect of bravery, and how it’s never too late to chase your dreams -regardless of age or circumstance. Sometimes all it takes is one bold YES to create magic in your life and the lives of others. About Elaine Allen Elaine Allen has been an artist since she was a child - when she used chalk from a broken wall to draw on the slate sidewalk in front of her home. Her long career has included illustrating an international children’s magazine and creating work for public and private spaces across the US, including Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and The Brentwood Library in Tennessee, and Joy Gardens in California. She continues her work in both watercolor and oil for shows in the US. With her passion for teaching, Elaine has created Bright Mind Arts - an art curriculum for active senior centers, Start in Art – art lessons online, and The Creative Well – membership that’s a weekly dip into the creative pool. She instructs local community programs for adults, runs a summer art program for kids, and does annual art retreats in Italy. She holds membership in the National Watercolor Society, The American Watercolor Society, The Chestnut Group – Plein Air Painters, and Sanctuary Artists. I love to teach art and have been teaching classes, camps, and workshops for many years. I believe that everyone is creative, and each of us longs to find ways to express our unique form of creativity. It’s astounding to see some of the life changes that come about because of creative activity. Studies prove what I see firsthand – that fulfilling the basic human drive to create actually changes the brain. I’ve seen students become more confident, have better communication skills, and have enhanced problem solving skills. Making art is therapeutic, so it’s a calming, centering activity. A lot of the folks who show up for my classes are looking at what’s next for their lives. I believe that creative work is one of the best things they can do on that journey of discovery. The experience is what is important, not the end result of the work. –Elaine Allen (Note: this episode, as usual, contains swearing. 😉) Note Worthy Timestamps: [00:02:44] – Dream fulfilled through connection.[00:05:20] – Is your world small & unchanging? There’s a reason why…[00:09:03] – “Chance” meeting with two women, Elaine mentions Venice and one of the lady’s ends up on the first Italy art experience.[00:14:22] – Number of times Elaine has been to Italy, travel plans, and reflections.[00:16:11] – The power of saying YES![00:27:43] – Elaine gets personal (health diagnosis back in 2017 & more).[00:32:52] – Facing fear with confidence. Key Takeaways: Here are some key points you’ll take away from this episode: Elaine’s artistic retreats in Italy: origin story.The power of connection & community.Taking the first step (saying yes) even when scared.The magic of the gatherings (what makes retreats special).Self-discovery & personal growthNavigating family & relationships amid pursuing...
