I can’t quite believe I’m writing an October blog already—how on earth are we here? It feels like I blinked somewhere back in spring and suddenly leaves are falling. But if this year has flown, it’s only because it’s been full… full of growth, surprises, challenges, and some truly unforgettable moments.
Exhibition with the Association of Animal Artists
One of the biggest highlights of recent months was having three of my sculptures selected for an exhibition with the Association of Animal Artists. Being accepted into a show like that is such an honour in itself, but what made it really special was finally meeting someone I’ve admired and followed since 2019—Lisa Ann Watkins BA (Hons) (AnimalArtbyLaw).
When I first started drawing, I followed Lisa’s work religiously. She was one of those artists who not only inspired me with her talent, but encouraged me with her kindness. To finally meet her in person, chat, laugh, and even meet her lovely mum, was a full-circle moment I’ll treasure. She’s every bit as genuine and humble as she is talented—a rare combination.
Into Print – My First Magazine Feature
Another surreal milestone this year: I made it into print for the very first time.
I was selected to be featured in the 80th edition of Collect Art Magazine (CoA) under the theme #loveofmylife—not a tiny footnote, but a full five-page spread sharing my journey as an artist, alongside images of my sculptures. To see my story in glossy pages, among so many incredible artists, was both humbling and electrifying. It wasn’t just an achievement—it felt like a quiet, personal victory after years of persistence, doubt, and hard work.
Creative Evolution – Finding My Voice in Sculpture
Over the last few months, something has shifted in how I create. I can honestly say that my latest four pieces are among the strongest I’ve ever made. I’ve found myself deeply drawn to sculpting apes—there’s something about their eyes, their expressions, their emotional weight. I love the challenge of capturing that fragile blend of strength and vulnerability. Sculpting them feels natural… almost like sculpting something I already know in my bones.
That said, I never want to become predictable. As much as I adore apes, I don’t want to become “just the ape sculptor.” I crave challenge. I want movement, energy, drama—scenes that make people stop in their tracks. I’m dreaming of lions in mid-chase, lionesses leaping onto prey, raw moments frozen in clay. I’ve moved away from the more comical pieces; I just don’t enjoy them anymore. I want to create work that says something, that stirs something.
New Tools, New Ambitions – Enter the Airbrush
I’ve also begun exploring airbrushing—a whole new world in itself. My goal is to bring softer, more lifelike finishes to my sculptures, where colour blends gently into the clay instead of sitting heavily on top. It’s challenging, yes, but I love a challenge. I want to master it, refine it, and use it to elevate every piece I create. Expect plenty of airbrushing experiments in the near future—I’m determined to become the best I can be at it.
Going Live – Sculpting in Real Time on Twitch
And finally, a leap into something unexpected… I’ve started going live on Twitch, streaming my sculpting and airbrushing sessions. It’s a bit terrifying but also exciting. I’ve been told it’s a brilliant platform for creators, and I want people to see the real process—the mess, the problem-solving, the quiet magic of clay coming alive.
If you’d like to watch me work, ask questions, or simply keep me company while I sculpt, you can find me on Twitch at:
➡️ DeeGoodwillSculpturescouk
Pop in and say hello—I’d genuinely love to see you there.
This year has surprised me in all the best ways. Exhibitions, publication, new techniques, new dreams. If this is what October holds… I can only imagine what’s still to come. Thank you for being part of this journey.
No responses yet