A New Year

The beginning of the year is always a busy time for me, often filled with interesting new opportunities for the new year and also a time of tidying and re-prioritizing where I want to focus my energy. 

•  I received my 2nd shingles vaccine and though all vaccinations tend to make me feel awful for a couple of days, knowing several people who have experienced the pain of shingles, I know it's a small price to pay.
• My shoulders, which have been treated for adhesive capsulitis for a number of years, have finally forced me to step away from larger canvases. I'm actually okay with it as I have absolutely loved throwing myself into the large projects consisting of many smaller works. There is something that feels necessary for me in letting go and moving on.
• I've started my advanced Art History course through Thompson Rivers University which is titled 'Cultural Theory & Images". We will be discussing different perspectives on images and learning how to think critically about what they represent and why they are important. I'm very excited about this.
• Unfortunately the natural earth pigments I was experimenting with haven't worked in our household. My husband has severe environmental allergies and using any type of oil, even one that seems harmless, doesn't work in my home studio. Though I am going to give it another go as an acrylic ink to use in my airbrush. Fingers crossed!
• I'm also very excited to begin my new project, 'Extraordinary Women'. Though I haven't given myself any kind of deadline this time, I'm afraid that may have to change as I find myself getting distracted from that work, even though I am really happy to do it. My brain is funny that way...I seem to work better with deadlines.
• And, finally, I'm beginning to look forward to mentoring emerging artists with Levelling Up. That begins later this month and I'm excited to speak with artists who are just beginning their career.