Melissa Lawrence

Hi everyone. We need rainbows more than ever at the moment, don't we? There is something about their bright colours, their simple shape and their symbolism of hope which is perfect for these scary times. So it's no surprise really that the rainbow seems to have become the agreed artistic symbol of the fightback against the coronavirus pandemic and I've certainly enjoyed looking at the various rainbow artwork that has appeared in windows, doors and on driveways when I've been talking my regular walks around the area where I live. Coronavirus Rainbow, March 31 2020. Photo Credit: CC (themostinept ) Here are three things you might not know about rainbows: 1. The word 'rainbow' comes from two Old English words 'regn' and 'boga' meaning 'rain' and 'bow'. 2. Although rainbows feature a lot in ancient literature and religious mythology, no one knew what they were until the 17th century. 3. Because rainbows don't actu...

Hi everyone. It's hard to believe that less than three months after I last wrote a post for this blog, we would be in the middle of a global pandemic. But unfortunately we are, so I do sincerely hope that wherever you are and whatever you are doing you are managing to keep safe and well. Like many "creatives" I have been wondering whether I should put my work on hold during the pandemic and of course, if I get sick, I shall have to. I think that many of us have probably contemplated giving up what may seem to us (and other people!) like "non-essential" jobs and doing something that seems more important. However, apart from the fact that I'd be about as useful as a wasp in a honey jar for most of these jobs, we probably need the pleasure, light relief and inspiration that creativity can bring, more than ever right now. It's still OK to be creative So a week or two ago I made a list of things I felt I could do through my creative work to help ot...