getting back to my roots

I have been home in Castlegar for only 5 days, and time has flown by with unpacking, organizing and socializing. I managed to do some doodling over the weekend and also enjoyed some delicious meals. With the start of a new week, I am getting back to my roots: I want to delve deep into my studio and create some new work, as I have spent so many weeks just focused on the business side of my art. I need to filter, distill and archive all of the thoughts that have crossed my mind during these spring shows and with this I hope to grow and expand with new product/business ideas as well as solidify some exciting future studio opportunities that involve traveling to new places. I also have tons of beautiful things that will soon be uploaded to etsy. Fun things to come, sorry to have been quiet for so long.

a secret something (part 1)

I started a little project months ago, for one of my fiance’s best friends, Teddy; he wanted to get something meaningful for his daughter Autumn’s second birthday (not just another pile of toys that would eventually get left behind). After seeing my grizzly portrait that hangs in my family’s cabin, he knew he wanted to commission a large graphite drawing from me. The other two points of inspiration, came directly from his daughter: her nickname “squishy squirrel”, and this stern look that she often gives her dad (reminiscent of a very serious owl). We talked a bit about imagery, but Teddy basically left things up to me… Since we were staying with his family for the OOAK show, I decided to double to size of his commissioned drawing, as a thank you for hosting us. Today I am sharing a couple process photos, and tomorrow I will share the finished piece, along with Autumn’s reaction!

best day ever

Nothing is more inspiring than love. Yesterday was one of the most beautiful days I’ve had in a long time; My aunt and uncle invited all of my eastern family over and put on a fabulous party for us. The highlight was finally being able to have my fiancé John meet my grandparents in person. It was such a blast, time just flew! There was a ridiculous spread of food and many laughs and smiles. This is the best way to enter a long craft show week: with a full heart.