A study of creativity in sync with a woman's cycle, not forced consistency
The Story Behind the Artwork
This painting was created during the follicular phase in my cycle, where my creativity, confidence and energy was at its peak. This phase often brings me a wave of inspiration and momentum, and this piece captures that feeling of alignment between my cycle and my creativity. This painting reflects what it means to create with my body, not against it. I am learning to lean into the waves of my cycle rather than forcing constant output and productivity.
Instead of viewing the fluctuation in my creativity as inconsistency, I have begun to celebrate responding honestly to my own inner rhythm. The brushstrokes in this piece carry that feeling of momentum, of being fully present in the moment and letting the process flow rather than trying to control it. This painting shows the shift in recognising that my creativity thrives when I honour each phase of my cycle.
Visual elements
This painting's scale, bold brushstrokes and posture convey strength, confidence and presence. The relaxed parts of the figure reflect the natural ever changing form of the female body across different hormonal phases. The strokes aren't constructed, they are responsive and mimic the flow of energy I experience throughout my cycle.
It becomes a record of my rhythm, reflecting my internal mood rather than a pursuit of perfection. Instead of idealising a woman's body or designing it to be "perfect", this painting embraces the reality of sometimes feeling confident and other times feeling uncertain and in need of reflection.
Meaning and intent
This piece highlights how women's creativity is rhythmic and shows how hormones and mood influence the ability to paint. By painting from a place of hormonal awareness, the artwork reframes creativity as a cycle with necessary phases: inward reflection, rest, action and release. This painting honours those moments of boldness when they come.
The more I learn about my hormones and internal rhythms the more I recognise those patterns emerging instinctively in my work. This painting reflects that process of understanding how biology can translate into creative intuition. Ultimately, this painting speaks to creating from awareness rather than control.
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In times of creative blocks and moments of doubt, this painting is a reminder that they will pass. It carries a sense of ease and grounds you on those chaotic days. The painting helps you return to yourself, reminding you that every phase is temporary and that alignment comes from listening to your body rather than fighting against it.
If you need a little reminder to nurture your creative spark and to be kind to yourself on the quieter days, then this piece might just belong with you.
