Parenting is an art form. It’s messy, unpredictable, and full of surprises. As a mother of three boys and an artist, I’ve come to see how closely intertwined parenting and art really are. Both require patience, presence, and the ability to embrace imperfection… and both have taught me valuable lessons about mindfulness.
When we decided to move to France, our goal was simple: to slow down and spend more quality time together as a family. We wanted to create a life where connection and creativity took centre stage. Little did I know, this shift would not only transform how I approached my art but also how I parented.
A Personal Journey Back to France
My connection to France runs deep. As a child, I moved here with my parents, and those years remain some of the best in my life. The freedom, the adventure, and the connection to nature shaped who I am today. Returning to this dream life with my own family feels like coming full circle.
We’re now buying a house in the woods, complete with a river for wild play and exploration. It’s the perfect setting for my boys to experience the same joy and wonder I cherished growing up. This summer promises endless adventures—building forts, splashing in the river, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
This move has also inspired me to return to writing children’s books. I’m currently working on a story about my own childhood adventures in France, and I hope to follow it with a book about my boys and their new life here. These stories celebrate the magic of childhood and the beauty of connection with the natural world.
The Parallel Between Art and Parenting
In art, there’s a moment when the blank canvas feels both thrilling and daunting. You’re not sure where to begin, and every brushstroke feels like it carries so much weight. Parenting often feels the same. There’s no manual or perfect guide; you’re constantly figuring things out as you go.
But here’s the beauty: in both art and parenting, it’s the process that matters. In art, the best pieces come from experimenting, layering, and sometimes making mistakes. In parenting, the strongest bonds are built through showing up, trying your best, and learning from challenges.
Mindfulness: The Glue That Holds It All Together
Mindfulness has been the bridge between my art and my parenting. When I paint, I’m fully present in the moment… focused on the texture of the paint, the movement of the brush, and the image taking shape before me. Bringing this same presence into parenting has been transformative.
For example, during a particularly chaotic day, I remember pausing to take a deep breath. My middle boy was having a meltdown, and my instinct was to jump in and fix the situation. Instead, I took a moment to centre myself. I knelt down, looked him in the eye, and said, “I see you’re upset. Let’s take a breath together.” That small act of mindfulness shifted the energy completely. It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of being fully present… both in life and in art.
Turning Everyday Moments Into Masterpieces
Just as I capture fleeting moments in a painting, mindful parenting allows us to savour the everyday magic of family life. A family walk in the woods becomes a chance to marvel at the colours of the leaves. A bedtime story transforms into an opportunity to connect and bond. Even a messy kitchen after baking together holds its own kind of beauty.
These small moments, when we choose to slow down and truly engage, are the brushstrokes of our family’s story. They may not always look perfect, but they’re rich with meaning and connection.
Sharing My Journey in “Mindful Parenting”
Inspired by these lessons, I wrote Mindful Parenting: Techniques for Fostering Emotional Well-being in Children. This book is a guide for parents who, like me, want to approach parenting with intention and presence. It’s filled with practical strategies, journaling prompts, and even games to help families create their own masterpiece of connection and growth.
Creating Your Family Portrait
One of the ways I celebrate these connections is through my art. I create bespoke family portraits that capture the essence of a family’s journey. Whether it’s a whimsical illustration of a cherished moment or a timeless watercolour, these portraits are a way to honour the unique story each family tells.
If you’re interested in learning more about Mindful Parenting or commissioning a family portrait, I’d love to connect with you. You can find my book on Amazon too .Together, we can turn the everyday chaos of parenting into something truly beautiful.
What moments in your parenting journey feel like art to you? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
