How to Unlock Your Creativity with Internationally-Renowned Artist Simon Kenny

What if your niggling self doubt was actually pointing you straight toward your purpose?
In this episode, Anthea sits down with internationally-acclaimed abstract artist Simon Kenny - opening up a deeply honest conversation about creative expression, vulnerability and identity. What in fact it really takes to grow into and show up as an artist in the world.
You’ll learn about the persistent reality of imposter syndrome, even at peak fame; the struggle with confidence and self worth; how creating heals our older and more implicit wounds; and the ongoing journey towards a sense of enoughness. Simon shares how his relationship with art has evolved over time, from using it as both a shield and a form of escape, to embracing it as a space for emotional expression, self-exploration and core healing. This conversation explores how art and trauma are often intertwined, and how the creative process itself can be a powerful pathway for personal transformation.
We’ll also dive into the messy middle of the artist journey, including overcoming creative blocks, learning to live with uncertainty and redefining success beyond external validation. Simon opens up about building a business, experiencing failure and finding his way back to an authentic artistic identity through abstract art process and experimentation.
This episode is a reminder that self expression is not about perfection, but about courage. It is about showing up, creating anyway and allowing your work to evolve as you do. In the process, who you are, what you believe and the inspiration you offer completely re-shapes.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Simon Kenny
04:27 When imposter syndrome hits hard in the spotlight
08:37 Building confidence and redefining what “enough” means
09:45 The unexpected path into becoming an artist
15:01 The childhood urge to constantly create
17:40 Using creativity as an escape from reality
22:04 The connection between creativity and trauma
27:55 Finding the way back to making art again
30:02 Building and losing a furniture business
32:35 Why anyone can be creative
34:15 Learning to sit with uncertainty
41:06 Seeing your work through other people’s eyes
42:54 Legacy, meaning, and what we leave behind
44:10 Balancing creativity with personal life
47:15 Creating connection through vulnerability
50:11 A final reminder to play, experiment and let go
If this episode got you thinking, share it with someone who needs a little creative spark right now.
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Connect with Simon
Instagram: @‌simonkennyart
Website: simonkennyart.com
Connect with Anthea
Instagram: @‌ab_embodiment
Email: ab.mindbodycoach@gmail.com
Website: ab-embodimentcoaching.org