Returning

Back in studio and online and what a time. It can feel weird to talk about art and ask for more support and imagination when the chasm is huge, the grieving deep, and humans—especially those most vulnerable—are not being cared for, and worse, attacked. The pain is unthinkable.

It can be hard to not feel consumed by the sinking emotions and wonder why art. And yet art is a portal where wonder, joy, sorrow, curiosity, imagination, suffering and hope can all live, wrestle, and transform. Creating art has forever changed me and watching people project their creative voice gives me sacred pause. It is a balm that can keep us moving, creating, growing, and hoping for something more.

Sabbatical

My sabbatical has evolved a bit since I started it in 2023. At first it was a complete detox, and then it became a space for my suppressed hobbies (👋🏼 crafting for kids parties) and this year it was a work sabbatical—meaning I worked lol.

Note taking and planning

I worked on all the things that are hard for me to make time typically for because yes, painting is the necessary element in my business and also the ultimate procrastination activity.

So I took workshops on marketing and business, I traveled and gathered inspiration, I made and filled out multiple calendars, I caught up on some shows (from the upside down to Paris), and I dreamt about a different kind of year.

My two boys enjoying the Hong Kong skyline

Just because I took the time doesn’t mean it was “perfect”. I made some plans, but now comes the harder part—following through! I learned so much in a short amount of time, but now I have to remember what I learned and use it! Mostly just grateful to make the time every year to create a different space of growth, challenge, and rest.

What would be on your sabbatical to do list?