I had the honour of participating in the launch of U4IA magazine, a truly special event that brought together some of the most innovative creatives in the Gold Coast, Australia. The brainchild of a visionary artist and curator, U4IA aims to create a vibrant community for creatives of all kinds, and I’m so grateful to have been featured alongside so many inspiring talents. The atmosphere at the event was electric, and the passion behind the magazine's creation is something I find incredibly hopeful for the future of art and creative expression.

I had spent the entire day working, but I was determined to make it to the event to support this important project. After a hearty meal of homemade meatballs made by my amazing girlfriend (who looked stunning in her high boots and mini skirt), I rushed down there, eager to immerse myself in the energy of the night.

Upon arrival, I quickly set up a display of some smaller paintings I’d been working on. The real highlight for me, though, was the moment I found myself painting in the event’s tunnel installation, a space dedicated to unfiltered creativity. I never plan my public pieces, and that night was no exception. I struggled at first, unsure of what the painting was trying to become. It was a battle, but eventually, it found its form—and in the end, it felt like a genuine expression of the moment.

It wasn’t an easy process; I was frustrated with the piece and even with myself as I painted, feeling the pressure of being surrounded by so many people. My clothes and shoes were ruined, and I was covered in paint, but there was something raw and beautiful about the whole experience. One of my friends, who was also part of the event, performed a live set of his unreleased music while I painted, which added another layer of magic to the moment.

As I reflected on the evening, I saw so much beauty in the struggle and the mess. Sometimes, art is about letting go of expectations and being vulnerable. It was a humbling experience to see how everyone, despite their egos, shared the same underlying insecurities about their work. This event wasn’t just a magazine release—it was a celebration of the creative journey, the trials, and the growth we all go through.

I'm so grateful to have been a part of it and excited to see how the U4IA vision continues to evolve and inspire.