Perseverance through practice and imperfection As a child Bianca Giarola loved drawing, partly influenced by her aunt – who encouraged her and her siblings to explore their creativity – and encouraged by her father – who would buy her those wonderful big colouring sets. However, as she entered elementary school she found that art was not particularly valued by her teachers and society in general, and she eventually stopped drawing altogether. Writing was a passion for Bianca – she always wanted to write a book – and journalism seemed the right path, followed by digital marketing. However, Bianca found herself struggling with mental health issues while working in her high-stress corporate job in Milan, and it was during this time that she stumbled upon a YouTube video about using calligraphy as a tool for improving mental health. Yet it is not calligraphy that Bianca is known for now, but beautiful botanical drawing. Find out how Bianca learned to draw and why she believes that through practice and consistency anyone can learn, just like she did. To that effect, Bianca has also now fulfilled her dream of writing a book that proves her philosophy. If you found value in this episode and would like to show your appreciation, consider supporting the podcast through the Support the Show link, or by sending a boostagram , for example in the Fountain app. Your contributions will help me continue to share inspiring stories of creativity and resilience. CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Twitter: @creativityfoun Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Hear the podcasts I've guested on here, and join the Creativity Found Collective here. Support the show hereTry the Fountain podcast listening app hereBuzzsprout podcast hosting Start for FREE Support the showSupport the show here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Join the Creativity Found Collective here