Happy Sunday, friends.
As the end of the year draws near, I am taking to my keyboard to reflect on this year in my creating journey, and sharing a recent development to my personal practice that I hope might resonate for other artists who my come across this post.
2022 was a year of getting my toes wet in sharing my art practice in new ways. I started to explore abstract and mixed media in earnest - making a lot of 'bad' art in the process. I was accepted to be part of my first group exhibition in March, and subsequently have continued to display work with Free Spirit Gallery on Gabriola Island, British Columbia. With the encouragement of patrons and friends, I opened this little shop in October of 2022 with a small offering of some of my very favourite pieces. It's a wild ride and I can't thank you enough for being part of this journey.
Despite these opportunities and wins for a gal who used art as a means of exploring some dark inner places - I still didn't feel like *I* was even in my top 5 priorities the last two years. I've felt disconnected, like I was going through the motions in a fog (after accidentally taking night-time medication first thing in the morning).
The past few months I've been finding it difficult to focus on a single project. It's felt as though I've had so many ideas and concepts that I've wanted to explore that it's made it difficult to find direction in my practice. I know that a lot of artists struggle with creative block, but never like a deer frozen in the headlights of all the ideas all at once and not knowing where to start.
When the opportunity to join an online art community presented itself I subscribed. The group I joined is smaller and hosted by an artist whose work I've felt connected to; that's what I needed to feel comfortable. Think about what your goals are and take a close look at communities that meet your needs. Creating and sharing art is a vulnerable thing to do - but finding a space with folks that can share in your process can be a great way to get some help to lift the fog.
Looking forward to hearing what some of your intentions in the coming year are in life or in art. Also - quick reminder to sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date with updates to the store including new product releases and special events.
Stay safe. Make things. (Connect).
Clara