Emerging hesitantly back into society after lockdown, I have been busy talking with art world mentors to find out what we are all navigating in the ‘new normal’.

I have promised during this unusual time to give you an insight into the highs and lows inside my art studio. This week has been a little bit tough, and talking to others, it is clear that changes to many of our career plans during Covid-19, mean that lots of us have started to hear the voice of our ‘inner critic’ louder than ever. What helps you to quieten the voices which try to bring you down?

As a professional artist, over the last 15 years I have got to recognise that voice which can seem louder than ever in a career where you have to be self motivated and find the confidence to go it alone. Here I share with you some tips from from art critic Tabish Khan, from the art world (an industry which often has to find creative workarounds for change and fluctuation), and from psychologist Rick Hanson.

Tabish Khan is an art critic specialising in London's art scene, covering contemporary and historical exhibitions. He visits and writes about hundreds of exhibitions a year covering everything from the major blockbusters to the emerging art scene.