Embracing a New Chapter: My Artistic Journey, A Change of Heart, and the Call of the Outside World

Life has a way of surprising us with unexpected turns, and sometimes, it's not a curveball or unexpected crisis but a change of heart and mind that propels us in a new direction. For me, this change came after pouring my heart and soul into my art, achieving some of the goals I'd set for myself along the way. I've had the pleasure of seeing my art showcased in a gallery where I did very well, selling a large artwork, small artwork, several prints and cards, participating in a vibrant street art festival, and even selling an original piece at an art trail. These accomplishments have been immensely fulfilling, marking the fulfilment of my artistic aspirations, except for one: regular sales of my original works.

After beginning ADHD medication, I've found myself more focused and energised in the mornings. This newfound clarity led me to explore new opportunities beyond the studio walls. I started by volunteering to walk a dog once a week, satisfying a longing for the canine connection I'd been missing. After seven months of volunteering, I gradually increased my involvement, even paying for extra walks. I took the initiative to acquire Canine First Aid certification and insurance, hoping to turn this newfound passion into a supplementary source of income.

It was during this time that I realised how much I missed having a dog as a constant companion. I took the leap and adopted a nearly two-year-old rescue dog, and as we adjust to each other's presence, my life has been filled with long walks and the joy of experiencing the world through her eyes. With four dog walks now a part of my daily routine, I've had to put CrossFit and art on hold for the time being, but I hope to rekindle my artistic flame once the administrative side of things settles down.

As I reflect on these achievements and the path I've traveled, I've come to realize that I've achieved what I set out to do in the realm of art. In reality, I no longer aspire to be a full-time artist. The prospect of constantly churning out "products" to meet market demands and maintain inventory has left me feeling like a prisoner in my studio, disconnected from the outside world. This wasn't the life I had envisioned. I cherish being outdoors, and I want to paint when inspiration strikes, not because I feel obligated to do so. The pressure of consistent creation for social media has, at times, taken the joy out of my creative process.

I've archived the very things I once yearned for: the validation of selling my work through a gallery, the thrill of painting live at a street art festival, and the satisfaction of finding a home for one of my original pieces at an art trail. These milestones have marked significant chapters in my artistic journey, and now it's time for a new chapter—one that involves experiencing life beyond the studio walls and sharing it with my furry friends, be they dogs, cats, horses, or any other creatures that bring joy to my heart.

I'm not bidding farewell to my art; I will always be an artist, and once I'm stable in the administrative side of this new chapter and know where I am heading (and hopefully sold some more of the artwork I have finished), I shall return stronger, having had a good break. I still sketch in cafes to keep my hands busy—though with a dog, you can't always stay as long as you would like. Rather, I'm taking a step back to savour life's adventures. It's an opportunity to rediscover the world beyond my brushes and canvases, to explore new horizons, and to immerse myself in the beauty of everyday existence. There's a world waiting to be explored, and I want to relish every moment of it, to be present, with my dog, with others I meet while dog walking, and to have plenty of rest in between. Even my gym membership to CrossFit is canceled as I can't physically nor mentally manage both.

While my energy to create may have temporarily waned, my ideas and love of art remain as strong as ever. I'll always cherish the memories and emotions that my art has evoked in me and in those who have encountered it. The pieces I've created will continue to exist, serving as a testament to the passion and dedication that have fueled my artistic journey. If you have ever purchased, I would love to see them in their new setting.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me along the way. Your encouragement, appreciation, and patronage have been the driving force behind my artistic endeavors. It's been an incredible privilege to share my art with you, and I'm deeply thankful for every purchase and every connection forged through my work. I hope to get back to painting again, but for now, doodles and past artwork will have to do.

In essence, this isn't a farewell to art but a shift in focus, a pause to embrace life's ever-unfolding tapestry. I'll still sketch and doodle, sharing these moments on Instagram, but my art will no longer be bound by the pressure to constantly produce. Instead, I'll use this website to showcase those pieces that possess a unique charm or feel complete, leaving room for the unexpected and the serendipitous.

Art has been a journey of self-discovery, a reminder to be playful in both creativity and life itself. While there will undoubtedly be new artwork in the future, for now, I invite you to join me on this journey down memory lane. Explore the art that has shaped my life, and perhaps, find a piece that resonates with you and brings a touch of inspiration or nostalgia to your world to bring home.

In conclusion, life's journey is filled with twists and turns, and sometimes, it's the decisions we make from the heart that lead us to the most enriching experiences. As I step back from the canvas for a while, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead—the chance to see the world with fresh eyes and to live, not just through my art, but in every moment that awaits beyond the studio walls.