From butterflies to Beetlejuice: 15 works by Bishop’s Stortford Art Society member Chrystal Barry

I started painting in April 2023 and sold my first painting in July – since then I have been hooked, writes Chrystal Barry.

For me, being creative is a form of therapy and I hope to inspire others to take up some form of creativity.

My proudest moments so far are spending time at Hazel End Care Home with the residents and a group of local children ranging in age from two to 15.

We quickly learnt glitter was not a good move, but listening to the laughs and 100-year-old John teaching the kids how to make the loudest sound with just a piece of paper… magical.

Next is having a painting in Ireland – my first one overseas!

I recently held my first exhibition at The Beer Shop at Northgate End (they do an amazing grapefruit gin too) which was a great success and it was nice to support a local business in the process.

If you’re thinking about signing up to a new hobby then definitely give it a go – as I say to everyone: be creative, be weird, have fun.

Bishop’s Stortford Art Society is a great place to start. I have had some great opportunities since signing up last year and made some lovely friends too.

My socials and Etsy are https://cbarryart.etsy.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/cbarry_art/