21 Dec Personal Projects

(Exploring color with a horizontal abstract with watercolor, 2022)

Hi! It’s been a whirlwind month of “to-do” lists. In all this nervous energy, I’m taking today to sit and reflect on the year. Pausing is something I’ve been working on. I’ve added a mediation practice to my life this year. I would love to do it daily, but for now I’m OK with a few times a week. I’m a natural doer, a maker, and check-that-off-the-list gal! But the accumulation of stressors got to me this year, and my spirit is calling out for quiet, stillness—simply being. Sitting for a few minutes and breathing is like drinking  a tall glass of water on a hot day. So satisfying!

2022 had many challenges for me. However, today I want to share my joyful moments. Since March, after my six week watercolor online course, I have been adding in personal painting to my days. My delights are these small abstracts pieces. It’s all about freedom and play!

(Blues waves abstract, 2022)

I pinned up several of these painting all around my studio to offer me inspiration and smiles. To me they say “stay loose”, “let go”, and “joy is all around”.

(Dining room, 2022)

I sometimes use the room around me for ideas for pattern and color. At other times, I use pages from magazines, my garden, or travel photos.

I plan to continue my meditations and this art therapy into 2023 and who knows, maybe all these small painting will lead me into a larger painting project or series. And if they are simply my fun–that’s OK too. I know I’m excited about this new painting journey. Here’s to a marvelous 2023!