6 Questions with Claire Atkins

6 questions, a tiny interview with artists, makers and creative folks.

This month we meet the multi-faceted gem Claire Atkins. I've been racking my brains to remember where, when and how I met Claire many moons ago and can't quite put my finger on it, but what I DO know for certain is that there is no other planet in my orbit that is as gung-ho, sunshiny and committed to living the most creative life possible (and I know a fair amount of amazing creative humans!) Claire is many things - a veritable renaissance woman who, while I've known her, has been a ceramicist, artist, maker, singer, songwriter and actor. She's also a wonderful wordsmith and most likely a million curious and wonderful things prior to us knowing each other!

I was so pleased when Claire agreed to answer these 6 little questions because I just knew she would answer them with her whole heart.....and she has. I hope you enjoy reading Claire's answers and I encourage you to explore her many creative expressions online, on spotify and if you're lucky in real life on the stage!

My name is......Claire Atkins

I live in Northern NSW

I am an Artist, Ceramicist, Actor and Singer Songwriter

Question No.1

If there is one thing I believe in.....it's to keep stepping out of your creative comfort zone. Stay slightly out of your depth.

Question No.2

Each day I complete this one ritual, action or routine.....I floss.

Question No.3

I desire to.....suck the marrow out of life!

Question No.4

Before I die, I would like to.....swim with a whale shark.

Question No.5

The book that changed my life......’Hop on Pop!’ Learning to read completely changed my life. I still remember how that felt as a child. Literacy is life-changing!

Question No.6

The wisest words ever said to me were..... 'Life loves the liver of it! You must live and life will be good to you.' Maya Angelou didn't say that to me personally, but I read her wise words. Books are saving us all the time.

Optional 7th Question

One thing most people do not know about me...... I had post-natal depression after the birth of my two children. I honestly thought they would be better off without me, and I was on anti-depressants for years. By nature, I am a supreme optimist, and so that period of my life was very difficult. I felt so much shame, and I'm excellent at pretending, and so not many people knew. That was twenty years ago, and I'm so glad I'm still here! If you think the world is better off without you, reach out for help and keep holding on. I promise, it gets better.

To learn more about Claire's inspiring multi-passionate practice visit her website www.pinkyandmaurice.com follow her on IG at @pinkyandmaurice or listen to the Eternal Return EP on Spotify