I struggled to see the light in my creative journey. I said yes when I meant no, and I couldn’t see my own value. So I created In The Lab to help creatives like you find your path.
If you are a professional, early-career, or in-school creative, then I’m certain you’ve felt the tiredness. The exhaustion that comes from understanding how to level up in your career path of choice. I know the feeling well. At the end of school, I had multiple qualifications and didn’t know how to bring them all together.
It felt like a field of problems and solutions. At that time, I only knew I had Dyslexia. It wasn’t until my thirties, after a relationship ended, that I discovered I had ADHD and Autism.
Did everything suddenly click? No! I would say discovering, and learning about all this between 2018 and 2025 was the redefining of my creative journey. Much of this growth and realization comes from therapy sessions, moral support, having a faith life, and just living life.
Even at 30, I realized that going it alone wasn’t helpful. As a Neurodiverse black man, I faced unique challenges and limitations. Though it’s uncomfortable to say, sharing my truth is important. This inspired me to create In The Lab (Creative Conversations with Creative People) to help other creatives like us.
What is In The Lab?
Although different, every creative loves to be seen. Recognition of good work tells us whether were on the right track. I get it! You don’t like the limelight? Welcome to the Psalm Lab Family! Neither do I. There is a strange balance when it comes to recognition for creatives. We need to be seen and valued for our worth, talent, and investment.
But this doesn’t always mean receiving big awards or being profiled. It can be valued encouraged, or a kind word from a mentor or fan of their work. For someone to simply say; ”I see you, and your work is wonderful.” It’s called positive reinforcement.
This is essential for Neuro-Creatives (Neurodiverse Creatives), to thrive in their chosen creative career. There are many groups, services, and organizations who support this too! Examples include EPAD (Edinburgh Performing Arts Development), Creative Edinburgh, NEUK, Creative Mornings, and Creative Informatics.
1. Creative Community
Anna and I go way back! It was an exciting opportunity to sit down and talk to her for this episode. I have a conversation with Neuro-creative Anna Gormezano Marks. She has a background in Membership Development and Engagement Management at Creative Edinburgh.
She is also a painting graduate from ECA (Edinburgh College of Arts). Join us; Anna shares her everyday life with dyslexia in the creative industry.
2. Freelance Photography
Ross is a professional photographer, artist, and adventurer, always on the move! In this episode, I grab a cup of coffee with Ross. We catch up on all the adventuring he’s been doing. We also talk about his experience in School, and how Dyspraxia impacts living day-to-day.
3. I’m Not Lazy! Game design & Dyslexia
Alastair is a 3D Games Artist at Ninja Kiwi and blender nut. We sit down for a quick chat. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of being Dyslexic within the gaming industry. We also talk about what everyday life looks like for a Creative Dyslexic.
Finding a supportive community is vital for Neuro-Creatives, where sharing experiences can lead to greater understanding and growth. In The Lab is dedicated to amplifying these voices and encouraging connections among creators who may feel unseen or undervalued. Through conversations, shared stories, and expert insights, we aim to foster a space where every creative can flourish.
If you resonate with any of the challenges discussed, I invite you to join us. If you feel inspired to share your journey, join in this collective exploration. Whether through listening to our podcast episodes or engaging with our community, there’s a place for you here.
Together, let’s illuminate the creative paths that often lay hidden, transforming our struggles into stories of triumph. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and your creativity is a valuable contribution to the world.
Stay curious, stay connected, and keep creating!
If you enjoyed reading this, be sure to leave a like ⭐ and comment. Follow me on YouTube, Threads, and consider joining my ✨ Creator Newsletter. To stay up to date on all things creativity, Neurodiversity, insights and encouragement.
“No matter what you are facing at this moment in time, you can do all things! Stay safe, and God speed!”