spotlight on melanie gooi

“The Let’s Go Deep program has been perfect accompaniment for a year-long personal art project that I had been mulling on embarking just before Let’s Go Deep started. The program supported me in creating a body of work that had been on my mind for a long time. Through LGD, I was able to see through my personal project. There were both ups and downs while pursuing my painting project – I encountered resistance and fear. Having the community and being part of the program helped me to keep going. Annamieka is most supportive and encouraging, and that made a big difference in the progress I made.

I discovered that it takes time and patience to develop a cohesive body of work. What I imagined in my mind not necessarily will come through as I intended. The important thing is that I had to be kind and gentle with myself when the progress is not as expected. Annamieka continually emphasized that we practice kindness towards ourselves and to allow ourselves to have grace. She also stressed the importance of rest, which is critical to having enough energy to show up for our art and to continue to be creative. Rest is also essential to avoid burnout.

I definitely recommend the program especially if you are starting out and in need of support and encouragement. This program is also a journey of self-exploration as an artist. It has been a pivot point for me to learn and know about my own artist visual voice. Showing up for myself made the difference, and the other most significant difference is having the support of Annamieka. She is a gifted listener, and I have never felt so deeply listened to by anyone concerning my art. Through her deep listening, she helped me clarify my thoughts and ideas about my art that otherwise would just be swimming in my head of confusion. Through clarity, I was able to progress at a much better speed with my art project. As creatives, we tend to have lots of ideas coming, and this can become confusing as the ideas pull us in different directions scattering our energies and focus. Getting clarity from someone who supports and encourages you with your art does not always come by easily, and Annamieka is a natural at this.

So, I would say this program is a must for anyone who wants to pursue their art seriously and in particular if they have an art project on hand.  It is highly recommended for anyone wishing to discover their artistic voice.

Through this program, I finally adopted the idea that I am an artist. So now I am both an accountant and an artist.”