Attentiveness in Action
This week in the studio, I’ve been reflecting on a question that’s been nudging at me since our last session: What’s my leadership metaphor?
At first, I didn’t think too hard about it. But then I looked down at one of my recent digital paintings—a warm-toned, abstract dog with oversized ears and gentle, observant eyes—and I realized the answer was right there.
My leadership metaphor is a dog.
Dogs are loyal, comforting, and often curious—always sniffing out new trails, new places, and new perspectives. That’s how I show up in creative spaces too: with a steady sense of care, an openness to exploration, and a strong instinct to tune in to what others need. I try to lead by being attentive, just like I do in my art practice—whether that’s noticing subtle shifts in colour or holding quiet space in group dynamics.
Sarah also suggested metaphors like wind or water, and those resonated too—especially with the fluid way I move between media, such as watercolour, acrylic, and digital illustration. But something about the dog—its groundedness, its mix of play and purpose—feels especially true for me right now.
Attentiveship in Action
This drawing of the dog came out of a playful place—broad lines, deep browns, no perfect symmetry, just the intention to feel my way through. That, to me, is also leadership. It’s not about being the loudest in the room. It’s about noticing. It’s about making intentional choices and being present.
When I think about the seven elements of leadership, here’s how I see them show up in my creative and leadership practice
- Choice – I choose to stay soft, even when things feel uncertain.
- Talent – I bring an instinct for texture, detail, and noticing what others might overlook.
- Belief – I believe in accessibility in the arts and in slowing down enough to see each other honestly.
- Passion – Time disappears when I’m creating. I get completely absorbed in colour and movement.
- Identity – I value quiet representation—making space for nuance, for softness, for attentiveness.
- Vision – For the August 8th exhibition, I’m planning a series called Floral Bloomers—a digital/painted collection exploring how beauty emerges in dark or unexpected spaces.
- Purpose – My purpose is to listen and create in equal measure. To let attention become action.
Exhibition Plan: Floral Bloomers
Theme: Creative resilience, quiet strength, and transformation through attentive mark-making.
Mediums:
- Digital painting
- Watercolour with ink
- Acrylic on paper
Series Concept:
The Bloomers series will feature portraits of flowers, sailboats, and landscapes that thrive in shadowed, overlooked, or harsh spaces. Each piece will pair vibrant colour with textures and bold lines—representing quiet power and artistic emergence.
Presentation Format:
- Virtual gallery slideshow
- ALT text written for each work
- Brief voiceover or artist notes accompanying selected pieces
- Optional artist Q&A on launch day
As I prepare for the August 8th exhibition, I’m leaning into this idea of “attentiveship.” These works will be intentional; they’ll grow slowly, like flowers finding the sun.
Thanks for following along.
In colour and motion,
Emily
