This self-study action research explores 'How can I increase the influence of the Reggio Emilia approach in our art area?" Additionally, the research investigates 'what do I need to put in place to increase creativity in the art room?' and 'how can I live closer to my values regarding children's agency in the art area?' Articulating my values led to a realisation that I was a living contradiction. This realisation resulted in me utilising my values as a catalyst for change. Kemmis and McTaggart's action research cycle was applied to two research cycles. Data was gathered through my reflective journal, questionnaires, photography, anecdotal observations, dialogue with critical friends and a semi-structured interview with my manager. Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic data analysis supported the generation of codes and themes, leading to the naming of the overall findings. Rigour and validation was supported through triangulation of the data as well as discussion with my critical friends and adopting my values as standards of judgment. Three findings emerged. Firstly, children's agency and creativity increased when physical barriers were removed, resources were accessible and open-ended materials were added to the space. Secondly, it was found that documentation involves reflection, collaboration and a relational approach to co-creation. Lastly, themes emerged that highlighted adapting the Reggio Emilia approach to an Irish setting requires contextualisation, collaboration and ongoing reflection. This self-study action research reflects how attempting to live to one's own values can improve practice and contribute to the creation of a living theory. Although there are limitations such as the small scale of the study and it being deeply personal, there are transferable elements including evidence of utilising values to create change and the implementation of a different approach to early childhood education.