Goddesses, Grit & Gratitude: Nathalie Edwards Explores the Therapeutic Power of Art and Its Role in Fostering Community

13/11/2025 49 min

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Creatively Eccentric, I chat with Nathalie Edwards, a ceramic artist and project manager who transitioned from a corporate career in London to a creative life in France. Nathalie shares her journey of self-discovery, the challenges of moving to a new country, and the importance of community in her artistic endeavours. She discusses her experiences with guilt, the pressures of a male-dominated industry, and the transformative power of creativity. Her latest project, the Goddess Collection, emerged during the pandemic as a response to her personal struggles. In this conversation, Nathalie Edwards discusses her artistic journey, the significance of repeated numbers in her work, and the creation of a nurturing space for artists and writers. She shares insights on balancing the demands of being a creative with the need to earn a living, the importance of community support, and the joy of witnessing others thrive in their creative pursuits. Nathalie emphasises the value of trust in the creative process and the beauty found in everyday moments.TakeawaysThe importance of community support in artistic endeavours.Guilt can accompany significant life changes, especially for women.Creativity often requires stepping outside of societal expectations.Building a community is essential for creative growth.The Goddess Collection symbolises empowerment and resilience. Nathalie's art is inspired by goddess sculptures and repeated numbers.The balance between earning a living and being a creative artist is challenging yet essential.Community support is vital for personal and professional growth.Trusting the creative process is crucial for artists.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Creative Eccentric01:32 Nathalie's Journey: From Project Management to Artistry04:53 Bold Voices and Messy Journeys06:55 Navigating Guilt and Personal Transformation09:30 The Challenges of Project Management in a Male-Dominated Field11:45 The Catalyst for Change: A Moment of Clarity14:51 Finding the Perfect Space: The Mill in France23:59 Building a Community and a Creative Retreat27:43 The Goddess Collection: Art as a Response to Anxiety30:07 The Significance of Repeated Numbers and Goddess Sculptures34:23 Balancing Art and Business: The Creative Struggle38:15 Creating a Nurturing Space for Artists43:31 Lessons from Challenges: Embracing Community and Support49:35 The Power of Cross-Pollination in Creative Communities53:35 Trusting the Creative Process: Advice for ArtistsNathalie’s social handlesWebsite: http://www.themillfrance.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themillfrance/Mentions (creating a resources list)https://www.workaway.info/Books: Rick Rubin's The Creative Act - https://sites.prh.com/thecreativeactBig Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Other mentionshttps://londonwriterssalon.com/---Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would mean a lot.Social Media Links:Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: [email protected] or topic Idea: Voice Note MessageGuest Appearance: Apply HereWebsite: Links + Bio + ContactInstagram: Creatively Eccentric - InstagramYouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube PlaylistLinkedin: Heather Ebanks - LinkedinTip/Support: Buy a Ko-FiOriginal Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks