Big News!!!
- May 14
- 3 min read
Good Morning — It’s Been a While!
Well, it’s been a while, hasn’t it? I hope you’re all doing well and keeping yourselves happily occupied. I thought it was about time I popped in with a little update on what I’ve been up to — and what’s coming next. I have been super busy with lots of workshops, and painting and drawing getting ready for the upcoming markets.
🎨 A New Workshop: Abstract Concertina Books
I’ve recently put together a new workshop all about creating an abstract art concertina book. And when I say abstract, I mean scribbles, blobs, splashes — the kind of joyful mark-making absolutely anyone can do.
The real treasure of this workshop is the clever cutting and folding that transforms a big blank sheet into a delightful little book. We even make simple covers using recycled materials and some gorgeous gel plate prints.
Participants have told me how relaxing and fun it is — once they get over the initial fear of that big empty page. One person said it was the first time they’d “switched off” in weeks and actually given themselves a moment.
And honestly, isn’t that a thing? Allowing ourselves to just sit — to read, listen to music, or (heaven forbid!) make some art — without feeling guilty. We’re all so busy, me included, and giving ourselves permission to pause is harder than it should be.
Let me know if you fancy it.
I’ve also got some Gel Plate Printing Courses coming up at Blended Monkey in Outwell. Due to a cancellation, there are two spaces left for this Sunday.
It’s a full‑day course:
Gel plate playtime in the morning
A delicious lunch from Louise
Then making earrings from your prints in the afternoon
It’s such a relaxed, friendly space. Louise is a wonderful hostess — drinks and cake appear every half hour! We also get to wander her lovely garden and forage for foliage to print.
Upcoming dates:
17th May
31st October
You can explore more delicious courses at: www.BlendedMonkey.co.uk
I’m thrilled to say I’ve signed up for the fabulous Mabel Makes Market in Downham Market. The first one is on 24th May, 10–3, right in the town centre. They were hugely successful last year, so I’m really excited to be part of them.
I’ll be there on:
24th May
28th June
26th July
30th August
These markets are packed with high‑end arts and crafts, plus music, food, and most of the shops will be open too — unusual for a Sunday in Downham Market!
I’ve been rejigging my stall and even made a new sign- do you like it? And this year my daughter Beth is coming along with me not sell some of her textile creations. She’s incredibly talented, and I’m so proud she’s joining me.
Big News: My First Stockist!
I’m absolutely over the moon to share that my gel print earrings are now stocked at No.8 The Old Bookshop in Downham Market — my first ever stockist!
Sarah has created a fantastic space there. I recently ran a concertina book workshop in the shop, and she was a brilliant hostess. It’s not just books — you’ll find creative crafts by local artists, books by local authors, cards, workshops, and more. The volunteers are always happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
If you haven’t popped in yet, do. It’s a gem. Follow them on Facebook... its good to support local.
In other news....I have been drawing too. We have a pair of swans where I live and they recently hatched 7 cygnets. I popped out to get a photo and the Daddy decided to come and say Hi. Here he is... very proud I thought. I have also been drawing some new little landscapes, some fantastic pen and silver foil flowers....all for the markets.
Last but not least- go take a sneaky peek at my website if you haven't already @ www.HelenLThomas-Artist.com
Let me know what you think about it. I’m thinking of giving it a bit of a re-jig- so feedback would be lovely.
See you soon! Love, Helen x
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