My name is Josephine Frenkel. 

I was born in the Netherlands in the 1950s.  I now live on the outskirts of Swansea.  I would like to share my “journey” with you.

For me, a significant year was 2016 when my photography and pictures were exhibited at Swansea’s Grand Theatre Arts Wing,  5 days after I had a serious heart attack.   5 Months later, that same year there was also a spiritual turning point in my life, which changed everything.

In 2020 and 2021,  after some scary times when 2 of my children ended up in hospital in induced comas, the Creator placed me on the starting block of road of creating, through art. 

With heightened stress and lockdowns, a new period of creativity began for me which also got me through some worrying times.  I tried my first ever painting in 2020, after an experiment, pouring paint over a vase and shortly after I  started experimenting with resin art and enjoyed painting more and more.  I made sets of coasters, each original and unique, and was delighted at how much they were appreciated.

My living room in my lovely, small cottage was the only space to do my art.  In 2021 my Christian church family donated materials and free labour to make possible the building of a studio in my garden.  The God of grace I had found in 2016 made the impossible become reality. 

I had been through an incredibly scary, heart-breaking, but also glorious and joyful time.  Through all this, my art studio provided a peaceful and yet exciting haven and a place which gave me my sanity and creativity.  I continued with my art.  I enjoyed my gift of a studio, which was beyond my dreams and not only helped my creativity but helped me avoid falling into the pit of worry. 

I wanted to give back out of the riches I feel I have received.  So,  in 2021 Koinonia Studio was 'born', as a not for profit business. ( All 3 directors plus myself give our time and talents free, so that we can give  out of our riches, to those who have need )

We decided, that we will give back to the community, through donating financial aid to projects ( Wherever that need is at a particular time). the first year we donated to NHS eating disorder, but have since then decided to donate to Zac's Place , Swansea via Exousia Trust.  Zac's Place, who are locally doing amazing work, in reaching out and meeting needs to those have little or nothing and it is an honour to be a small part of this amazing work. ( To be part of this or just want to find out more, contact me )

I am thankful to Adrian Rabey,  CEO of the VETERANS ENTERPRISE UK and the BRITISH TRAINING BOARD who offered enormous support and help to hold an exhibition of my art.  I also want to thank artists that have been an inspiration on this exiting journey.  I.e Kanella Ciraco, John Beckley, Rinske Douna, Molly's Artistry, and Swarez .

 Nothing is impossible with God.  The journey continues.  Thank you for taking the time to read “My Journey”.

If you want to join me on this journey, I would love to hear from you.  You can pray, donate, and purchase pieces of art , join the workshops or get involved in displaying my art in some way.

Jo Frenkel

You can learn more about Jo’s art or make purchases

by visiting

   KOINONIA STUDIO 

on

https://www.facebook.com/Koinonia-Studioart-109096887688138