Grief, the Technicolour Rattlesnake

Episode 140 of the Extraordinary Creatives podcast, hosted by Ceri Hand, titled "Grief, the Technicolour Rattlesnake" was published on September 18, 2025 and runs 9 minutes.

September 18, 2025 ·9m · Extraordinary Creatives

Summary

Not long ago, Ceri asked one of her favourite artists if there was a subject they’d like her to write about in her weekly Beat the Block newsletter. They said, “making through grief.” When she shared the question on Instagram, a surprising number of you asked for the same thing. Having learned a lot about grief: through losing her own family and friends, through study, and through supporting clients as they navigate it - Ceri decided to tackle the subject. But instead of diving into science and tools, she found herself writing about how grief actually feels. At first she thought it might be too naff, weird, or c*p to share. But she had written it, sincerely, for you, so decided to take the risk and share it, just as you do daily. If you’re too raw at the mo, you may want to skip it and come back to it, but if you listen and it lands with you, please let Ceri know. KEY TAKEAWAYS The experience of grief is deeply personal and often invisible to others, yet it profoundly shapes artistic expression. Grief can become a constant, unpredictable presence in the creative process. It can both stifle and fuel creativity, making the act of creation feel risky but also necessary. Even in the depths of grief, noticing and appreciating small, everyday moments of beauty can offer inspiration and help you reconnect with your creativity. BEST MOMENTS “Grief is the unwelcome guest in the studio, a technicolour rattlesnake, hypnotic, terrifying, distracting, poisonous. You can't ignore it.” “Grief doesn't just strip you bare. It also hones your vision. It makes the random sacred. It reminds you to notice, to hold close, to find magic in the everyday, to be braver, to care.” “This is grief my friend. I too have a technicolour rattlesnake of grief. Its bite floored me too, but here I am with you. We'll dance with yours together until you are both ready for it to shed its skin.” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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