Positivity during difficult times
(Do we need to 'smile' when things turn to sh*t?)
In this episode we delve into the topic of positivity, after a listener asked if we would consider changing the podcast title to something more ‘positive’. Julie and Phoebe chat about their thoughts on this idea, and why they decided to use the word ‘fail’ in the postcast title in the first place. This leads them into a deeper dive into the concept of positivity. It’s not always easy to stay positive when life throws you lemons, (and you’re out of gin and your tonic has gone flat) sometimes you don’t want to ‘smile’ and put on a brave face. So what else can we do? They reflect on how they turn difficult situations around - using analogies about marigolds and onions…
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Mentioned:
Ben Howard interview with Jo Whiley Radio2
Ben Howard interview in the Gaurdian
Quotes:
Many experienced gardeners follow a concept called companion planting: placing certain vegetables and plants near each other to improve growth for one or both plants. For example, rose growers plant garlic near their roses because it repels bugs and prevents fungal diseases. Among companion plants, the marigold is one of the best: It protects a wide variety of plants from pests and harmful weeds. If you plant a marigold beside most any garden vegetable, that vegetable will grow big and strong and healthy, protected and encouraged by its marigold.
Marigolds exist in our work (schools) as well – encouraging, supporting and nurturing growing artists (teachers) on their way to maturity. If you can find at least one marigold in your practice (school) and stay close to them, you will grow. Find more than one and you will positively thrive. “
Have changed two of the references from school to art to make this relevant
https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/marigolds/
“You get through it by getting through it, you don’t get through it by batting it away… happiness isn’t about never feeling fear or never feeling anxiety, happiness is about how you deal with those feelings and how you perceive them” John Robbins
Kofi Thanks:
Katie, Michelle, Andrea and the anonymous people who have donated! Thank you!
Artist Shout Outs:
Phoebe is taking part in the winter exhibition at Gallery Denovo in Dunedin, opens on June 23rd-July 16th
Gallery Denovo Winter Exhibition
This week
Studio updates:
PG : Finished a commission “Mandarin, Interrupted” for a lady who wanted to capture her children’s favourite snack as a reminder of their childhood 🥹
JB: Very excited to have started some clouds!
Life Update:
PG : It’s rained. A lot. Trying to stay positive!!
JB: : not much to report! just more painting and parenting!
What are you watching/ listening to?
PG : “Is It” by Ben Howard of course!
JB: Absolutely loving Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Fab meme of the week
PG:
JB:
Fave Art product of the week?
PG: My table easel
JB: Langridge Brush cleaner for the win this week
Anything random to share ?
PG: My new studio buddy:
JB:
Find Julie here: www.juliebattisti.com @juliebattisti & Julie’s newsletter
Find Phoebe here: www.phoebegander.com @phoebeganderart & Phoebe’s newsletter:
Podcast Website:
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Keep Failing!
Julie & Phoebe xx
Loved loved this episode, and please don’t change the name of the podcast, not that you would, failing is not necessary a negative, but a great way to learn and all part of life.
How would we grow and become a better version of ourselves without a fail here and there? And ... it would be so effing boring to be perfect all the time, nothing to laugh about ...
Ok, going to make a studio buddy now 🧅
I love listening to you both, so much. And I think in this episode you ask about the conversational style. I LOVE IT! I don’t follow many podcasts because in truth, my ears just don’t always have time to listen :) but I love the back and forth, the laughter (and tears) that you both share.
I was listening to another podcast awhile back and in truth while it was enjoyable but there were parts that were recorded and I just didn’t enjoy it as much.
So please keep the conversation style going.
Oh, and I’m so glad you chose “fail” and now F.L.A.A.P. :) Have a wonderful week.