(originally published september 23, 2022 via my Buy Me A Coffee page)
This last week I thoroughly savored the last weekend of summer by finding my way to the Lincoln Center where, unbeknownst to me, Walk With Amal was taking place, meeting new people at a friend's rooftop party, celebrating another Renaissance Church anniversary (I was in NYC this time last year!), and chatting over a meal with a friend at Central Park. It'll be hard to leave behind this sense of ease I've found being here in the city.
Once the week began, it was back to business and finishing up paintings (as best as I could). It's back to planning for the future and how I'll settle back into Austin in the next coming weeks. What a blessing it's been to be able to pause a few areas of life for a bit (bills aside, of course) as I adapted to this new space and way of creating. I understand that not everyone is afforded time and space like this, and I'm truly grateful for your assistance in it.
a reminder I've kept with me since moving from my hometown to Austin seven years ago
In all transparency, although this residency program didn't quite deliver on everything they offered, I'm still glad I took the chance to be out here. I had the opportunity to live in New York City and New Jersey. I had the gift of a large, bright, and accessible studio space. I had the time to prioritize my art (& myself) over the emails and planning and events - and gained so much peace of mind. I was able to challenge myself creatively and personally. And my goal is to carry it all back with me during this next transitional season of life.
visualizing my last collage painting before the glue. I think creating these has been my favorite part!
paintings on paper
A reemergence of curiosity and joy was found in the process here, and I'm looking forward to returning with some cherished work, some failed pieces, and some pieces to be finished just in time for Austin Studio Tour (west weekends).
Thank you for being a part of such a life changing time for me, my art, and my career! Still open to answer any questions you've got, but until then-
Keep Creating,
A