The Creative Challenge That Nearly Overlapped Our Cruise

Sometimes life gets a little busier than we plan for. Six weeks ago, I jumped into a creative challenge without realising just how big it would be — right on top of organising a holiday! Here’s the story of what I learned, the unexpected inspiration I found, and why I’m now no longer scared of drawing robots.

Just over six weeks ago, I saw a post on Instagram about a new art agency opening up. They were doing something a little different: instead of just asking for portfolio submissions, they were running a six-week challenge, sending out one creative brief each week. It seemed like a really good opportunity and I felt confident going in.

After joining, though, I discovered the final brief would land smack bang in the middle of a cruise holiday we had planned. I did wonder how I would manage it, but I decided to just put my head down and go for it, working hard each week.

At first, I thought it would simply be one illustration a week — something manageable in a few days. What I didn’t realize was that each submission actually needed a hero illustration plus at least three or four surface patterns to go with it.

Despite the extra work, I managed it — and I was actually really pleased with how everything came together. I also had so much fun doing the mock-ups, seeing my designs come to life in different product formats.

Then came the final brief: robots and rockets.

My heart sank a little. I had never drawn a robot in my life — let alone a rocket — and honestly, if I’d ever come across them before, I probably would have ignored them completely.

With time tight, I had a chat with my husband. We agreed that I would work up until we boarded the ship, then stop — sending my work off, finished or not, so it didn’t interfere too much with the holiday.

At first, I went hunting on Pinterest for ideas, but nothing was sparking. Then I remembered something from years ago: wonderful junkyard animals that used to be displayed in garden centres across New Zealand. They were made from old metal scraps — rusty tins, broken spanners, teapots, and all sorts of bits and bobs — welded into charming creatures. I had always loved them but could never afford them as a student.

That memory was the key. I suddenly realised I could create my robots from old scrap parts too — kettles, mugs, plates, screws, spanners — and build them up piece by piece. Once I started sketching, I fell completely in love with it. In fact, I had to force myself to stop, and only did so because of the time pressure.

Creating the hero illustration came together so naturally after that, and I even challenged myself further by sticking to just three colours — tricky at times, especially when designing background patterns, but it pushed me creatively in the best way.

Looking back, what I learned was this: when you’re asked to create something you’ve never done before, don’t panic.

Take a deep breath.

Let your mind wander.

Let go of any negative thoughts.

That ability came from my experience with a group I’m part of Positive Mindset Entrepreneurs, where we practice shifting from fear and doubt into curiosity and positivity. Once I approached the project with a “I can do this” mindset, everything flowed much more easily.

In the end, I created work that I’m really proud of — and I’m no longer afraid of robots!

Of course, tackling six big briefs right before a holiday wasn’t the smartest idea. Juggling final trip details, packing (far too much, I might add), and trying to finish everything on time was extremely stressful.

And while the cruise itself was lovely, we did catch the back end of a cyclone coming through New Zealand, which meant some very big swells. My stomach didn’t thank me for that, and I spent more time than I would have liked in our stateroom. Still, I did manage to enjoy parts of the trip, and it was wonderful to have that break after so many intense weeks of creativity.

So that’s where I disappeared to for six weeks. Would I do it again? Probably not quite in the same way — but I’m so glad I said yes to the opportunity. I grew so much as an artist and pushed myself into new territory I would never have explored otherwise.