I can’t believe a whole week has already passed since the opening of Paper Cuts, my first solo art exhibition at Salon Margate. I have to admit that by the end of it, I was exhausted, both physically and emotionally. It wasn’t only about being there every day, on duty, but also the expectations that I inevitably had when I planned this, every morning as I opened the gallery and waited for people to come, plus the constant questioning I put myself through.

Paper Cuts gave me one of those rare moments to pause and see my work through other people’s eyes; to understand that this does make sense, and that regardless of the motivation I may have had for building these collections, they are important and deserve their place out there. Listening to friends’ and visitors’ perceptions of my artwork, helped me appreciate even more my own perception of what I do and why I do it.

After spending so much time developing each piece in private—through experimentation, doubt, revision, and quiet determination—it felt incredibly meaningful to share that journey in a public space, not just exhibited but exposed, showing people a part of me that I had to learn to be proud of. Seeing the work gathered together like that was both grounding and emotional, as if all the years of making, thought, and feeling had finally found their full voice.

Some people questioned my choice to display my most provocative pieces near the window, right by the entrance, almost as a warning for people who may not feel comfortable seeing them. Why did I place the “family-friendly” pieces at the back, making a conscious choice to repel those who may have a problem seeing men kissing, naked torsos, intimate moments? My answer was always the same, both to those who questioned it and those who praised it: ‘Because that’s the point’… To be exposed, to literally cut out that fear and shame of showing who I am and what I like.

Seeing the artwork from the street as I made my way to the gallery, or around me as I waited for people to walk in—even seeing it in people’s photos as they shared them on social media—felt empowering. It brought a feeling, and a certainty, that there is nothing wrong with being ourselves, showing who we are, and talking openly about what we love.

Being at Salon was a great experience, but what stayed with me most was the atmosphere of connection the exhibition created. Conversations with visitors, shared interpretations, and the simple act of watching people spend time with the work reminded me why art matters so deeply to me. Each response brought a new perspective, and I found myself appreciating not only the finished pieces but also the process, risks, and growth that made them possible.

The pieces are humble and small, but behind them there is a lot of emotion, exhaustive work, attention to detail, patience, and sometimes even frustration and tears. This whole experience wouldn’t have meant the same without those who took the time to visit, ask questions, and most importantly enjoy what I’ve been making in my little spare room.

Paper Cuts was a milestone I needed to reach, something I had been craving for a very long time. More than anything, though, this exhibition felt like a celebration—of creativity, persistence, and the courage it takes to make something personal and let it be seen.

I’m deeply grateful to everyone who came, supported, encouraged, and shared in the experience. This exhibition marks an important milestone for me, and I’m leaving it feeling inspired, proud, and excited for what comes next.

So, thank you to everyone who came to visit through the week: those who attended the opening evening, those who brought food and treats through the week, those who helped set up and pack everything away, the ones who pushed me forward when I was hesitant and supported me in so many different ways—from putting up posters around town, to arranging my prints, or simply came to keep me company, also thanks to those who couldn’t make it but still took time to send a message, and of course, the biggest thank you goes to Salon and Jeremy the Cat.

I really hope this is the first of many opportunities to share my work, I’m itching to do it all over again, to explore new paths, to sit down and learn, grow and create… to show who I am. Thank you…