New beginnings - how a womens circle ignited my art

A story of new beginnings

4/14/2025

Hannah.
Back in 2023 I attended one of the most magical evenings with my friend Sophie.
I had no idea what to expect - simply that we were going to this temple out in Earl's Barton for a magical evening with some strangers hosted by Hannah.
I had never really heard of a drum circle before - but honestly, I'm up for most stuff!

I cooked some food from a Hello Fresh recipe and headed off with some Tupperware, a notebook and some gemstones rattling around in my bag.

With a warm inviting tone Hannah welcomed us to the space.
An immediate embrace offered like an old friend.
A breath-taking, carved wooden temple that peaked at a circular window above.
Incense burning floating on the breeze.
Altar set.
Like stepping into a new world.

It might sound cheesy but there was something truly divine about that space.

Nestled into the grounds of a vineyard we met and found space in the circle.
We were to be making flower crowns, drumming together and sharing words and food.

Shoes off, toes in the grass like a child (much encouraged!).
Grounding.
The sun setting over the scene of women collecting flowers and branches for crowns.
A giddy excitement peeling into laughter at times.

Back to the temple newly crowned.
As Hannah called in the elements, I kid you not, there was thunder.
Goosebumps.
Alive.

Establishing a warm, supportive, transformative space is no easy ask.
Hannah speaks beautifully and softly and you land in the room.
Feeling both seen and respected.
Everyone brought something in with them emotionally and physically and there was room for it all.

The drumming was a journey.
Feeling safe enough to sit with whatever came up.
Hannah's song drifting in and out the rhythms,

I kept my crown a full year hung over my mirror.
When it came time to return I left it as my offering and thanks.

I came home buzzing with energy and a sense of new beginnings.
That evening I took one photo of my face - face paint melted and all.
I wanted to capture it.
No idea in that moment it would become the reference for my first portrait.

So I shared this when I saw that Hannah was making her dreams come true -
letting her know that space played a big part in re-establishing my relationship with art as expression.

We returned once more almost a year later to a painting workshop in that same magical space.
Seeing how much had changed for us both in that time... well, 3 by that point ;)
Always with pure gratitude for special people like Hannah who can facilitate these spaces for women to reconnect with themselves, with each other and with whatever is calling them.
Thank you for what you do!
Keep doing it.