Life in the Backstage: Finding Balance in a World of Extremes

"I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring."

These words from David Bowie have stuck with me through the years, capturing the essence of creativity and the exhilarating unpredictability of art. Bowie was a master at using art to challenge norms and explore deep issues. His words echo my journey, a journey filled with music, photography, and self-discovery.

A fair few years ago now, I was at live music gigs three times a week. I had the incredible job of photographing bands, capturing moments that were electric, raw, and intensely real. The feeling of being backstage before and after gigs was surreal. The anticipation before a show, the adrenaline rush during the performance, and the strange sense of calm after the storm. It was like being in a bubble, untouched by the world outside.

There's something intoxicating about watching others in their element, completely absorbed in their craft. The artists, with their undeniable charisma, held thousands in rapture, and I had the privilege of capturing those moments. It was thrilling, intoxicating, and often overwhelming.

But behind the scenes, the life of an artist – be it a performer on stage or a photographer – isn't all glitz and glamour. It's hard work, filled with high highs and low lows. After a gig, I'd come home wired, unable to switch off. I would sit and edit photos, listen to music, and sip wine until the early hours of the morning. The artists, I imagine, would experience a similar comedown – from holding the attention of thousands to the sudden stillness and silence.

Bowie's quote and my experiences have made me reflect on the power of art. Art has the ability to highlight important issues, start conversations, and make us feel deeply. But it has also taught me about the need for balance.

The life of an artist can often feel like a constant chase for the next moment of ecstasy, the next rush of inspiration. But this constant high isn't sustainable in the long run. We need to create lifestyles that maintain strong relationships and good physical health. We need moments of ecstasy and moments of calm, times of productivity and times of rest, times to bask in the applause and times to simply sit and be bored.

I've learned that it's equally important to connect with the people we love, to have quiet moments to ourselves, to take care of our health. It's a delicate balance that I'm still trying to figure out. I don't have it all worked out yet, and that's okay. I'm learning, growing, and navigating this journey as best as I can.

As we immerse ourselves in the world of art, let's remember to also create space for balance and wellbeing. After all, life isn't just about the thrill of the ride, but also about enjoying the quiet moments in between. Maybe the key isn't to have it all figured out, but to keep trying, keep exploring, and keep growing. That's all we really need, isn't it?

This is my journey, my reflections. I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Let's start a conversation about art, balance, and the wild, wonderful journey of life.