Ready for a New, Joyful Year

(disclaimer- this post starts off with struggles, but if you make it through, it ends with hope)

A big, hearty welcome to 2019!
 
I think for many people, 2018 was hard.  For me it was a year of feeling exhausted by the news, heartbroken with miscarriages and searching for meaning in my life and work.   Though punctuated by incredible moments of sweetness with family and friends, much of the year tested my strength as a citizen, woman, and artist.  
 
Searching for my creative “why” and accepting loss and the sadness that follows brought me to an old friend in Colorado.  We hiked in the Rockies with backpacks full of art supplies- It was cold and crisp and beautiful and I could have stayed at least a week. Though I didn’t find “my purpose” there, I did come away with the understanding that my answers were outdoors- my heart was pulling me there. 

Realizing my frustration and discontent were directly related to the amount of time I spent indoors and attached to a screen, I decided to paint or draw or journal outdoors at least once a week and share my experiences and thoughts in this blog.  
 
I’ve discovered in these carved out moments (where I don’t worry about production or productivity) my creative practice is about finding joy- in appreciating the great variety of plants and animals, or the beautiful play of light and color, or experiencing an unexpected insight into the nature of all life and in particular my own- and sharing that joy with others.
 
I was worried at first the time spent outdoors and even painting might be self-indulgent and frivolous, but I think it’s only because we underestimate the importance of joy.  I cannot save the world or fix the corruption.  Nor am I political, ready to fight the good fight. (Though I greatly admire those who do.)  I can, however cultivate and share my awareness.  And, I do believe the world right now very much needs more joy.
 
In this next year I hope to continue my outdoor practice and blogging.  I also hope to share more in the way of online tutorials and in depth workshops.  I look forward to learning how a creative practice pursuing joy and connection influences my work, and I wish for everyone a new year full of joy, blooms and pollinators.

January 2019