The Peaceful Paintbrush
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Joanne Farley-Webb, the person behind The Peaceful Paintbrush, a contemplative art studio and creative wellbeing space.
Alongside creating my own artwork, I offer one to one creative sessions designed to help people slow down, reconnect, and find a sense of calm. My work brings together fine art, mindfulness, and holistic wellbeing practices in a way that is intentionally gentle and distraction free.
Where are you based?
I’m based at Metro House in Chichester, where I have a beautiful office that also functions as my professional working studio.
One of my favourite features of the space is the tree just outside the window. It may sound simple, but that connection to light and nature really influences the atmosphere of the studio.
How would you describe The Peaceful Paintbrush?
It is best described as a creative sanctuary rather than a traditional business.
Everything I offer is slow, unplugged, and designed to feel safe and welcoming, particularly for neurodivergent minds. There is no rush, no noise, and no pressure. Just space to create, reflect, and breathe.
What kinds of sessions or services do you offer?
My work is entirely one to one and tailored to each individual.
Sessions may include reflective art experiences, creative guidance, Reiki, ceremonial cacao, or simply holding space for someone to explore their thoughts through creativity. It is a non clinical, holistic approach to wellbeing rather than formal therapy.
What makes your work different?
The pace and the intention behind the environment.
Everything is distraction free, unplugged, and neurodivergent friendly. There is no expectation of being “good at art” or producing anything perfect. The focus is on expression, presence, and the experience of creating.
It is about how creativity feels rather than how it looks.
Tell us a bit about you personally
I’m a sole trader, a Buddhist, a dreamer, and very much a barefoot blue sky thinker. I’m also AuDHD, meaning autistic with ADHD.
That lived experience shapes everything I do. The studio has been built with genuine empathy and understanding, creating a space that feels calm, safe, and accepting.
What drives you or shapes your why?
A very simple belief, creativity is essential, not optional.
I truly believe creativity can act as a form of medicine. Painting, mindfulness, presence, and making are not separate from wellbeing. They are deeply connected. My aim is to create restorative spaces where people can pause and reconnect with themselves.
Have you worked on any particularly meaningful projects?
One of the most significant was Creative Metta, an Arts Council funded initiative.
This project became the catalyst for much of what I do today. It was especially meaningful as it ran during the Covid lockdown, a time when very few wellbeing focused programmes were available. Its impact continues to influence my work.
Why did you choose Freedom Works?
Because Freedom Works believed in me at a time when it truly mattered.
Before joining, I was painting alone in my basement and feeling quite low. Being welcomed into Metro House provided not only a professional environment, but also warmth, flexibility, and a genuine sense of belonging.
Has the community element made a difference?
Absolutely, often in beautifully simple ways.
Collaboration here is not always about formal projects. It is found in conversations, shared support, small acts of kindness, and everyday moments of connection. That sense of community is incredibly valuable, especially as a solo practitioner.
What is next for The Peaceful Paintbrush?
An exciting season ahead.
I am running three larger summer creative workshops, and my cacao circle, Shakti Sangha, begins again in June. The studio continues to grow and evolve, which is part of the joy of building something so organic and heart led.