The Star by Hackney Downs, 7 July 2026

14 Jul 2026

I’ve written many times about my great affection for Drawing the Star and the joyous evenings of modelling for the group at The Star by Hackney Downs, yet even within that context this felt like an important one. At a personal level. Therapeutic.

On the Friday before this Tuesday I attended an event that made me feel melancholy at the time and then utterly wretched throughout the day after. I bought myself a treat on the Saturday afternoon; pricey, but just a mental health sticking plaster.

Thereafter, things picked up. I had a happy social Sunday, and went through Monday with more positive purpose. Friday’s discombobulation still hadn’t fully worked its way out of my system, though. Special life drawing with special people was required.

I arrived an hour early and met Drawing the Star organiser Catherine Hall at the bar. I’m privileged to have known Catherine for more than twelve years as a brilliant artist, gifted art tutor, slick event maker and above all, friend. We talked… well, I talked.

Thank you Catherine, for listening. It wasn’t an emotional outpouring, I just needed to unblock. I’ve often felt if there was no such thing as art, then social services would be overwhelmed. Models need outlets too. Now it was time for me to work.

I started the session feeling energised, and this only escalated when midway through the first half, in walked model / artist / omnidazzling human, Haffa, who had joined us to draw. Quite unexpected.

Suddenly two of my favourite people were in the room: Catherine, who has shined so bright in my sky for so long and continues undimmed; and now Haffa, a new glittering star in my firmament. Unique people. Sometimes I need reminding of my blessings.

And lest I forget, the other artists in the room added their own stardust, creating such strong drawings, sharing their own goodwill and lively energy. Thank you, everybody! I’d arrived with baggage and optimism; I left only with happiness. Thank you.