Finding Creativity at Manly Dam

Some places give creativity room to move. Manly Dam is one of mine. I am drawn to it regularly, just to walk, think and let ideas settle.

The Gayamaygal, also known as the Gai-mariagal people, have inhabited this land around Manly long before the reservoir was constructed, they lived within and cared for this ecosystem of sandstone heathlands, wetlands, and creeks, using the surrounding bushland for food, medicine, and tool-making.

Walking here now, that history is present everywhere. Manly Dam offers every visitor gifts of calm, space and earthy connection. Even on a busy morning there are opportunities to find solitude within this incredible place of biodiversity. A turn on the path where the light floods across the water, or the discovery of an Eastern Water Dragon sunning itself on a rock. Without thinking, you will find yourself slowing down and melting into the space.

I’m lucky to be able to walk here regularly, as its close to my studio on the Northern Beaches. Sometimes I bring a camera, mostly I don’t. I’m not trying to collect anything. I’m just trying to stop for a while. I used to step out with an agenda – thinking specifically that a visit could spark ideas for new work – but I have found its power is more in stilling my mind.

Studio time can be more physical with hands in clay, decisions about form and glaze. But a lot of what ends up in the work starts in the quiet spaces of nothingness before. Looking at a scribbly artwork on a snowy white gum, or the vibrant contrast of red on an otherwise green eucalyptus leaf.

Its just a special time, sitting by the water, or appreciating the textures and tones in this landscape. We’ve had lots of family adventures and celebrations here too, with many marshmallows melted (or charred), refreshing swims and paddle board adventures, and rustic raw pots formed by the clay in the bank. Every time we always come back refreshed and content.

If you’re local to the Northern Beaches, or from futher afar, Manly Dam is always worth a visit. Whether for solitude, creativity, or something more energetic, it always gives back more than you bring to it.