In Kay’s world, nothing quite compares to the unforgettable experience of sitting front row at an in-conversation event with Dame Tracey Emin at Cadogan Hall, London (October 2024). My entire trip to the city revolved around the anticipation of being in the same room as my ultimate creative idol.

**One (of two) of my prized signed editions, sealed in cellophane for protection**

It wasn’t just an evening of art - it was one of vulnerability, strength, and raw emotion, held together by Tracey's extraordinary presence and the release of her powerful new book, Tracey Emin Paintings. The book is Tracey’s first monograph devoted entirely to her emotionally charged, soulful and deeply expressive painting practice. My signed copy has instantly become one of my most treasured possessions (in fact, I now have two - a back up on just in case anything happens to the first!).

**An Audience with Dame Tracey - Cadogan Hall, London ( 28 October 2024)**

I’d had the privilege of seeing Tracey speak once before, at an event hosted by the National Galleries of Scotland back in August 2008. I remember it vividly - the entire audience sat in awe and my cheeks hurt from smiling like a cheshire cat.

**Ticket stub from “Tracey Emin In Conversation” event 2008**

The Cadogan Hall evening had a similar magic, but this time there were a few tears too. Some parts of the conversation were profoundly moving. I could listen to Tracey talk for hours and hung on to her every word. Absolutely inspirational and endlessly inspiring. I have nothing but admiration and respect, a woman/ artist who I consider to be a creative genius with the most beautiful mind.

Back in 1997, Tracey staged an exhibition titled I Need Art Like I Need God. She has since spoken candidly about periods where she’s tried to walk away from art, only for it to pull her back in again. At one point, she even destroyed much of her early work in a dramatic gesture, a reflection of her emotional state at the time.

I resonate deeply with that complicated relationship to art - the push and pull, the love and frustration. Art has a way of unearthing the rawest, most uncomfortable emotions and isn’t always my friend.

**Tracey Emin’s sculpture “The Mother” next to the Edvard Munch museum in beautiful Oslo**

At the same time, art also has a unique power to comfort me during times of need when nothing else can and has a calming meditative quality. It is my biggest tool for connecting between inner and outer worlds. I can paint what I cannot express in words.

I have a lot to thank Tracey for. Her work, her words, and her willingness to reveal the most difficult parts of herself. Dame Tracey Emin has given me more than she will ever know.

If there's an artist or creative figure who has shaped your perspective, I’d genuinely love to hear more! My contact details are here

Who is your Tracey Emin?

I Need Art Like I Need ... Dame Tracey Emin

A Wee Hello to Sylvia