Back in 2016, I decided it was high time I created an online space for my artwork to live. I'd been running a design business for decades, complete with an established web presence, but my paintings had taken a backseat for too long, and it was time to rectify that.
In the process of bringing my art online, I crafted a tagline for my work that felt just right: Art that lets the light in.
Through all of my art, I have always strived to spread light and a positive spirit.
My new online home was a way to give my paintings another outlet, spreading that light and spirit further; stretching far beyond the gallery showings in my region or even the workshops and retreats I'd traveled to.
While this website was meant to function as a showcase and shop for my artwork, it also came with what is now another essential piece of my art life: My blog.
I perhaps didn't realize its significance at the time, but the written word of my blog would serve as yet another portal to my artwork that could spread my mission.
Five years later, I've published 53 missives (this one is 54!) on my blog — pieces that open my soul up to my audience in a beautifully complementary way to my paintings...
When I was first re-committing to painting as a full-time practice in my life, I wrote about staying present and finding the little miracles.
As I went through expansive transformation in my practice, I processed it by writing about embracing vulnerability as a means of growth.
When I was mourning the sudden loss of a dear friend to many of us, I wrote about connections and a small part of the legacy John Brahm III left behind.
When I was wrestling with the initial fear and uncertainty around COVID-19, I revisited a lesson I've learned time and time again: That we can't let fear and ego drive every aspect of our lives.
And as I'm about to embark upon a month-long sabbatical from the blog to travel to California and spend time with my grandson for the first time in over a year, I'm walking my talk and embracing my word of the year: Pause.
The more I began to share, the more I noticed its impact.
Through my blog, I've created a way for people — clients; collectors; kindred spirits — to get to know me as a person; a friend, making my paintings even more meaningful.
I've created a vehicle to share some of my personal stories, deepest thoughts and ever-evolving beliefs with readers — practicing vulnerability as strongly as I preach it.
I've created a way to be accountable to showing up once per month, not just as a reminder to other people that I'm here, but for myself.
Much like the body of work I've created with my paintings, my blog is a sacred place I can look back through as I evolve.
And in the meantime, I've increased sales of my paintings. I've earned the trust of more design clients. I've made new friends and strengthened existing relationships.
I pour my heart and soul into my art — it is my lifeline; my sanctuary; my outlet.
My blog is the written, outward expression of the stories behind that art, and I'm so grateful to each and every person who stops by to revel in those stories with me.
It is my hope that it continues to spread light and positive spirit as time goes on.
—
P.S. I share my missives each month in a newsletter that is bound to brighten your inbox. You can sign up for free right here 💜