For me, writing is my creative outlet. I might work at a desk job 9 to 5, Monday to Friday, but the rest of the time is mine to explore and wonder about how I can best express myself through the written word. There are many other people in the world who never get this opportunity. Who spend their lives in a stereotypical ‘box’, never thinking outside the square or being given the opportunity to explore what occurs on the other side of those metaphorical four walls.
Recent research by American Express revealed almost half of all Australians would like to discover a new skill, and more than a third would like to tap into their talent or explore their artistic potential. The highest rated ‘experiences’ were learning a music instrument, running away to the circus or being able to express themselves through art such as painting.
The Festival of Potential gives individuals the chance to try their hand at one or more of these activities in a relaxed setting and for an hour or so, let themselves explore their creativity. Fancy learning the drums? They got it. Perform a circus act? Roll right up. Be the next Picasso? Pick up your paintbrush here. Musicians, performers and artists will all be on hand to walk you through the ‘something new’ you have always wanted to try.
Choose to learn African and Japanese drums with TaikOz by finding your own beat, joining a group or watching the masters at work. The rhythmic drumming is much easier than it looks and provides for plenty of smiles and laughter. My teacher, Josh, started off easy and as I learnt the basic hand movements, progressed into what felt like slightly more advanced teachings. I think its all in the counting but when you let go and allow the rhythm to take over it really is just about fun and the music.
The National Institute of Circus Arts will be on hand at the festival to share their big top talents. Diablo, plate spinning and juggling all seem fairly daunting to the uninitiated but when you were a kid and wanted to run away to join the circus, didn’t you think you would ace these subjects? Give them a go and enjoy the childlike feelings they bring back.
I hadn’t picked up a paintbrush since late primary school, but artist Amanda found my inner Picasso and guided me through the process of painting something with meaning and depth. Talking about my ambitions and dreams, closing my eyes and thinking of images and colours associated with them and then sketching my ideas in pencil was just the beginning of my own masterpiece. My canvas will take pride of place in my living room, but yours might end up in a gallery somewhere perhaps? The festival aims to have over 1000 canvases painted over the two days, and American Express will donate $25 to Mission Australia for each one (up to 1000).
Come on down to the Festival of Potential and be inspired by those who have embraced their creative passions. Try something new and realise your potential. You’ll never know unless you give it a go.
The festival will take place at the O’Donnell Gardens in St Kilda, Melbourne on the corner of Cavell and Carlisle Streets (north-east of Luna Park) on Friday the 19th and Saturday the 20th of March from 8am to 7pm (Friday) and 10am to 8pm (Saturday).
