Well as the end of the year draws ever near, this time of year always feels reflective. I feel like so much has happened in the last 12 months and time has certainly flown by. It has not been easy at times, the life of an artist is one of struggle, having to keep many balls up in the air in order to survive. But I am one that has much optimism and keeps striving to move forward without compromise. I like to feel that I am challenged and that I can keep pushing that all important envelope. I know that I have created some of my best work this year, composing my first opera piece which has inspired me to embark on writing a full blown opera or at least look at developing this idea, to make it a much more accessible art form that can be enjoyed by everyone.

My biggest inspiration this year was definitely the two months I spent in  Borneo and this week I started to work on the first of what I hope to be many new works created from this incredible journey. I wish to take this opportunity to thank Heart of Borneo for inviting me to participate and be part of the work they are doing in Tumbang Tohan and Tumbang Naan. I feel extremely privileged to of been part of village life, even though at times it was tough. It has made me look at life in a completely different way and really appreciate how wonderful this world we live in is and how important it is to remain vigilant in protecting it. I am very keen on generating some funds for the village so they can buy medical supplies and equipment for the school. So I am proposing to sell some of the photographs I took and will be available online and hopefully a small exhibition of these photographs early next year.If you are interested in purchasing one of these works signed by me please contact me via email and I will send you a link to view them.

I have yet to fully realise my idea for Tohan Tales but things are beginning to take shape, its been a slow road and I think it has been hard to really bring to life a true representation of this incredible place and its people. I hope I can do it justice in the work I produce. I will keep you posted on developments over the next few months.

Unfortunately my home is to be finally demolished at some point early next year, and my time in this great space is shortly coming to an end. I will miss it greatly as it has allowed me to work pretty much full time creatively. Unfortunately London has become so ridiculously expensive to live especially if you are an artist and like many of my very talented peers, we are supporting ourselves by working other jobs to survive. It does not surprise me when I hear that many artists are now moving out of the city and setting up new arts hubs in the South East. So who knows where I will be next year…..Watch this space!

Lastly I want to wish everyone happy holidays and enjoy what ever you will be doing. Thank you for all the kind comments on the blog and of course your continued support it really is appreciated.

Here’s to 2013 and what adventures it will bring.