Why the colours on your walls are quietly shaping your day.

Over the weekend, I created two smaller pieces that emerged from pure joy. Initially, I just wanted to try out a new technique. But these two paintings wanted to unfold into actual paintings rather than just being an effect of me 'trying out something.' I feel happy when I look at them - they remind me of the determination, joy and confidence that you might see in plants that grow and bloom even though they live in a crack in a cement staircase in a park, for instance.

What is it about certain colour combinations that instantly lifts our spirits?

Our brains are constantly processing the visual information around us, quietly influencing our stress levels and overall sense of wellbeing throughout the day. Cool blues and greens tend to naturally slow our heart rate, while warm colours like oranges and yellows can energise and uplift, mimicking the psychological boost we get from natural sunlight.

Creating Your Own Visual Sanctuary

I often suggest people think about the emotions and inner states where they feel most alive. Is it that sense of playful curiosity? The feeling of pure contentment? These aren't just fleeting experiences - they're clues to the visual elements that can help you reconnect with those feelings.

This is why I'm passionate about creating pieces that actively contribute to the emotional atmosphere of a space. When someone tells me one of my paintings makes their morning coffee feel more peaceful or helps them remember inner joy and persistence during challenging times, that's environmental psychology in action.

The abstract nature of this work is particularly powerful because it speaks directly to your emotional self. Your inner world completes the picture with whatever feelings bring you the most joy and connection.

Small Changes, Big Impact

You don't need to redecorate entirely. Sometimes it's as simple as adding one piece that captures the essence of joy itself, or choosing colours that echo the palette of your happiest inner moments.

The next time you're in a space that instantly makes you feel good, notice how you feel – that inner lightness, that sense of possibility. Those observations can guide you in creating environments that actively nurture your most joyful self.

After all, we spend most of our lives indoors. Shouldn't those spaces be working with us, not against us?

What inner feelings make you feel most alive? I'd love to hear about the emotions and moods that spark joy for you - they might just inspire my next painting.

Warmest wishes

Kirsten x