Art has been a constant companion throughout my entire life. My earliest memories revolve around drawing and painting and I will always be grateful to my Junior 4 (year 6 in new money) teacher Mrs Fitzgerald, who saw my passion for Art and nurtured and celebrated this within me.

But sadly, I am also living in a time when Art is undervalued and often disregarded. There is a booming Art world where paintings and sculptures change hands for millions and galleries display work in quiet, guarded spaces. But beyond this it is seen as a childish hobby, something to grow out of while we pursue proper jobs and serious grown-up matters.

But we are creative, visual creatures and by seeing Art as something purely for children or rich collectors we are missing out on so much.

I want to remind people that there are countless talented and inspirational Artists around the world, creating work that can bring you joy, make you think, show you new things and even challenge your opinions. You won't like all of it (and you may actively dislike some of it!) but it adds colour, enrichment and originality to a world that is increasingly serious and stressful.

By allowing more art into your life you are allowing more life into your life! More joy, more inspiration and more time to pause, look and take in the world around you rather than rushing through it while you stare at your phone.

And it doesn't just have to mean enjoying the work of others, maybe it's time to reignite your own love of Art that got lost along the way of bills, work and responsibilities. Creating your own artwork is so beneficial for mental health, well-being and mindfulness. Developing your own artistic skills can add so much to your life; it's fun and it keeps the old grey matter ticking over - it might even fire up parts of your brain that you haven't used for years!

So, are you ready to let more Art into your life. I hope so - and here are the 3 main parts of my mission to help you do it...