notes from the studio
2019 Year in Review (& Thoughts About a Decade)
Another year has drawn to a close. Another decade, too. On January 1, 2009 I wrote in my journal: “2010. Wow. Seems so futuristic.” And here we are in 2020, even more futuristic-sounding.
But I don’t want to jump into 2020 without spending some time considering 2019 first.
Shake Things Up
I wrote the words “Shake Things Up” at the top of the page in my notebook this week. I’ve been working on a plan to reinvigorate my art-making as lately I’ve been feeling a bit off.
a bit of this and that, finding inspiration (and joy!) everywhere
I’ve been feeling so inspired lately. My garden is providing me with abundant painting ideas, but more than that, it seems everywhere I look I see beauty and find encouragement from people who are living authentic, creative lives.
Keep Going
This week I painted bleeding hearts with the paint I mixed last week.
It’s lovely to be working with flowers from the garden again. But it’s also been a bit frustrating trying to get back into a groove of art-making and gardening and all the other stuff that life demands.
Allowing Do-Overs
Over the past week I was painting tulips. I’ve painted tulips before. Even earlier this year from a grocery store bouquet.
This time I was so excited to be working on a painting with flowers from my garden. The first time this season.
Slow Going (and that's ok)
I came back from a trip to Seattle at 2 am on Wednesday morning and since then I’d been struggling to get back into the swing of things.
That is, until I realized that I could let go of the pressure to do, do, do and give myself time to rest and readjust.
Looking Back and Looking Forward
Today is my birthday. I love birthdays. When I was a child my mom always made them so special. I guess I never let go of the joy of celebrating my day.
Welcoming 2019 and Choosing a Word for the Year
Happy New Year!
I love this time of year. The feeling of being a bit out of time. The chance it gives for reflection and planning. It’s hopeful. Energizing. Anything feels possible at this time of year.