From Art Retreat to London Exhibitions: My Journey as a Mixed Media Artist
This past year has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life as an artist. Between family travels, an inspiring art retreat, and completing a year-long program at the Milan Art Institute, I’ve discovered so much about myself, my art, and my purpose.
The Journey: Why I Create Art
When I began the Mastery Program with the Milan Art Institute in September 2024, my goal was simple: to grow as a professional artist. The program challenged me to produce a portfolio of 30 paintings, countless drawings, and to launch a professional artist website. But beyond the technical work, the real challenge was discovering my voice and why I create art.
There were long hours at the easel, plenty of self-doubt, and moments when I wanted to give up. Yet, what I discovered is that art, for me, is more than a painting on the wall. It’s about the process — the layering, the textures, the emotion that unfolds with each brushstroke.
My mixed media paintings are deeply textured and tactile, created with charcoal, acrylic inks, fabric hardener, clay and collage, and finished mostly with oils. The act of making them is therapeutic, and through them I aim to share a sense of healing, calm, and expression with others.
The Importance of Sharing Art
The program also made me realize how crucial teaching is to my identity as an artist. Through art classes in South London, I help children and adults overcome the inner critic that whispers you’re not good enough. I believe creativity is for everyone, and teaching art is as important to me as creating it. Helping others silence imposter syndrome and embrace playfulness through creativity is part of my mission.
An Inspiring Art Retreat in Florida
To close the program, I travelled to Sarasota, Florida, for a four-day art retreat/ experience. It was an incredible experience to immerse myself in daily art practice alongside so many talented and inspiring contemporary artists, including Ellie and Dimitra Milan, who lead the Mastery Program. The retreat culminated in a moving graduation evening — a celebration of the hard work, growth, and discoveries of the past year.
Upcoming London Art Exhibitions
I am thrilled to share that I’ll be exhibiting my textured mixed media artworks at several upcoming events in London this autumn. If you’re local, I’d love for you to join me and experience the work in person.
South London Women Artists (SLWA) Exhibition
📍 East Dulwich Picture House
📅 14 October from 6pm - Preview evening. Free entry
📅 15 October – 20 December 2025
Croydon Art Space
People & Landscapes Exhibition - 27th September to 18th December 2025
📍 41 Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon CR0 6PQ
📅 15 October – 20 December 2025
🕥 Free Art Exhibition at Croydon Art Space Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite - Free but must be prebooked
Landmark Autumn Art Fair 2025
📍 Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN
📅 17 – 19 October 2025
🕓 Friday Open Evening: 4–8:30pm -
🕙 Saturday & Sunday: 10am–5pm
Ticketed event Autumn Art Fair - Landmark Arts Centre - Art Exhibitions and Fairs
Hayes Open Studio 2025
📍 13 The Green, Hayes, BR2 7NP
📅 22 – 30 November 2025
🕥 Open Daily 10:30am–5pm
These events are a wonderful opportunity to see a diverse selection of contemporary art in London and connect with local artists.
Looking Ahead
This past year has been about resilience, discovery, and growth. My art is not just about creating textured paintings — it’s about building connections, sharing knowledge, and using art as a tool for wellbeing.
Whether you join me at an exhibition, take part in one of my South London art workshops, or simply follow my journey online, I’m so grateful to share this path with you.
With love and gratitude,
Aferdita Fazliu-Drozd
South London Artist & Art Teacher