Chapter 1: The Purpose Behind My Art

Have you ever pondered the reasons behind your artistic endeavors? This is a question that often crosses my mind, particularly during those restless nights when I lie awake worrying about the future, finances, and how I arrived at this juncture—what I call 'The Age of No Return.' Even after more than 30 years of creating art, dreaming, and spinning tales from the depths of my often distracted mind, I sometimes reflect on the advice of a careers counselor who urged me to have a more practical backup plan.

We find ourselves in perplexing and troubled times: ecological crises, a global pandemic, conflicts erupting in Europe, rampant capitalism, and extreme political movements.

For several years, while I took a significant leap from my conventional life into a more unpredictable one, I decided to turn a blind eye to the political landscape and the news, similar to how I disregarded the skeptics who advised me to pursue a more sensible career path. During my two years in University, where I passionately pursued a Master’s Degree in Authorial Illustration, I chose not to dwell on worries. Instead, I focused on my craft and followed the path that felt inherently right, where my creative strengths resided.

Being a 50-year-old idealist in a cynical, self-serving world can often feel isolating and intimidating. However, the more I venture down this path, the clearer it becomes that I am not alone.

Reflecting on my upbringing in 1980s Britain under Thatcher, I remember being told by a wiser soul that as one matures and acquires the trappings of adulthood—a house, a car, children, vacations, and a 'proper' job—there tends to be a shift toward conservatism. This notion translated to me as becoming more self-centered, skeptical, and resistant to change, which I found to be unexciting. Thus, I turned to art and storytelling as a means to defy that fate. Art, narratives, music, and films became my avenues for discovering truth, beauty, and hope, allowing me to connect with others more compassionately.

As is the nature of life, I too grew older and began to accumulate the markers of adulthood. I observed my friends and peers gradually adopting a more conservative stance, becoming protective of their possessions and the lives they built. I found this transformation disheartening.

Eventually, I chose to abandon the life I had constructed to reclaim a more innocent state of being. I returned to my art and storytelling and made a conscious decision to embody the person my younger self would recognize with pride, willingly ignoring the rightward shift in society around me.

This path is often fraught with challenges, especially now that I am older. Navigating against societal currents becomes increasingly complex in middle age, as the expectations and judgments from peers can feel harsher. Yet, the more I commit to this journey, the more I discover that I am not alone; there are countless others who also seek to express the kindness that resides within them.

So, I continue to create art.

I produce art, even in the face of financial difficulties, because I maintain faith in the inherent goodness and kindness of humanity. I believe that people universally long for beauty, truth, and genuine connections. This, I argue, is the essence of what art, literature, and music can achieve. Through the power of storytelling, we find common ground and rise above the chaos of consumerism and capitalism.

Art holds intrinsic value as it nourishes our souls and connects us to one another. Every individual—regardless of wealth, age, or background—possesses value.

We are all interconnected. In today's world, the creation of art is more vital and valuable than ever.

Section 1.1: The Artistic Journey

Art is not just a hobby; it's a vital expression of human experience and emotion. Throughout history, artists have used their talents to reflect society, challenge norms, and inspire change.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Art in Society

Chapter 2: Embracing the Challenge of Creation