Skip to main content

The Creative Path

Emma Scattergood

Writer, Artist & Creative Mentor
Menu
Instagram Linkedin

Workshops & Mentoring

Hello there!

This space, my workshops, mentoring and the seasonal retreats are designed for everyone and anyone – regardless of how creative (or not) you consider yourself to be right now. The focus is on supporting you and making time and space for you to connect with your own voice and creativity – things that tends to get lost in today’s busy world.  

Workshops this Spring/Summer are somewhat reduced because of my art exhibition at The Fine Foundation Gallery, Swanage and at The Mowlem Theatre between April-June. Do come and see me there! (See Art page)

I am however hosting two Wilde Creative day workshops at the wonderful Wilde Story Cafe in Sandford Orcas near Sherborne. These are on April 9th and June 11th from 10am to 4pm. Please click on News and Events in the menu to find out more.

How it all started

My year of drawing/painting the South West Coast Path taught me many things but one of the most significant was the way in which walking, pausing and being playful in nature reconnected me to myself.

Nature’s Creative Magic

It created a space in which I could tune into another part of my brain which saw the world – and myself – through fresh eyes. As Kenneth Grahame once said about walking:

‘the mind has shaken off its harness, is snorting and kicking up heels like a colt in a meadow.’

In my workshops, I invite others to join me in mindful walking and creative play. It is so rewarding to see how this refreshes, restores and inspires everyone who engages with it.

Rediscover your own voice and self-confidence 

When life is demanding, taking time out for ourselves, time to quieten our minds and ‘play’ can feel rather self indulgent but, as Milan Kundera said:

‘People in the fast lane can not be sure of anything, not even their own hearts.’

Creative play (especially creative play in nature) helps you tune into your own voice, gain confidence in it and so reach places that you never thought possible – whether that’s in terms of creative success or in other aspects of your life. 

We all NEED to slow down, breathe and create space for some play in our lives. 

Everyone can benefit

The Creative Path workshops are suitable for everyone and anyone, regardless of how little creative experience you may have. Believe me, almost everyone signs up or arrives feeling a little concerned about their perceived ‘lack’ of talent. And everyone leaves wondering why on earth they did! Honestly. Take a look at some of the testimonials below, if you don’t believe me!

The aim of these days is not to go home with a stunning work of art or beautiful poem (although that can sometimes happen accidentally along the way!). The focus is simply on providing you with the space, support and prompts that you need to relax, play, engage with nature and let creative magic happen – in whatever way it chooses to present itself to you!

‘Sometimes disengaging is the best way to engage’ Rick Rubin

"This experience has gifted me with the opportunity to delve within myself and connect with the inner child; bringing forth valuable reminders of what I liked to do and and think about"
“Great fun, no pressure and very freeing. It’s very rare to have adult playtime”
“I’ve never had an opportunity like this before. And it’s brilliant. I love the combination of wordplay and drawing"
“A friendly atmosphere, not at all competitive”
“Calming, relaxing - and much easier than meditation!"
“I can’t remember the last time that I sat down to draw, and this has made me remember how much I used to enjoy ‘art’! I am leaving feeling that I must start to make the time to do this”
“It has been so lovely to play with language. Also to leave my comfort zone, and enjoy nature, exercise, fresh air and good company”
“I have so enjoyed taking taking time out, getting creative, wandering along the path, chatting and embracing the space. Lovely, thank you”
“It’s a gift to try something new and fun, in nature and good company”
“What a joy to drop the fear of failure and embrace playfulness! It has been a wonderful opportunity to try something new, go on an adventure in beautiful nature and enjoy the companionship. Thank you!”
“Amazing! This has given me valuable time out - time to think. Thank you”
“Fabulous. I’ve really enjoyed the creative play, and discovering a new walk. Thank you!”