Emily Watts on Overcoming Illness with Creativity

Breaking the Blocks

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How do you keep your creative spirit alive while facing the challenges of a chronic illness? Emily Watts, an accomplished animator and passionate quilter, shares her personal journey, balancing her artistic passions with the realities of debilitating fatigue and vertigo. Growing up with a love for art, her parents once advised her to keep it as a hobby, but Emily defied that advice, transitioning from a corporate job to a thriving career in animation. Her story is a testament to overcoming both personal and professional hurdles, drawing strength from her creative endeavors.
Emily’s life is woven with the threads of digital animation and tactile quilting. Discover how she found solace in quilting through the Santa Monica Quilt Guild during her toughest times, and how the physical and community aspects of quilting complemented her digital work. Emily offers a candid look into the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition, the complexities of differentiating between symptoms, and the comfort she finds in her creative projects despite the limitations imposed by her health.
In our conversation, Emily also talks about the profound impact of her plant-themed quilt, a year-long project that became a symbol of perseverance and personal growth. Initially overlooked for its simplicity, the quilt resonated deeply with many due to its heartfelt backstory. Emily reflects on the value of simple connections, the universal experience of self-doubt, and the importance of patience and perseverance. This episode is an inspiring exploration of redefining identity, embracing change, and finding joy and meaning in art and adversity. Join us for an enriching discussion on the intersection of creativity and resilience.
You can follow here on @emilywattsquilts on Instagram

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1. Emily Watts on Overcoming Illness with Creativity (00:00:00)

2. Creative Living Through Chronic Illness (00:00:02)

3. Embracing Challenges and Adjusting Creatively (00:11:23)

4. Embracing Change and Letting Go (00:24:08)

5. Finding Value in Art and Adversity (00:31:23)

6. Exploring Self-Worth and Growth (00:38:05)

7. Overcoming Blocks Through Creativity (00:52:00)

8. Exploring Creativity and Overcoming Limitations (01:00:18)

9. Spread the Word and Support Podcast (01:07:08)