What is on my mind these days?

My mind is always busy planning the next painting, designing the next social media post, and lately I have been thinking about the kids workshop I will be offering in a couple of weeks. I have a general idea and I wrote a draft of what I want to teach during each of the four sessions. The trick is to adapt it to the right age group.

I will paint some samples so they know what to expect. I have already created some reference drawings and marks. I will make some collage examples using papers mostly and gesso. The next step would be to paint 4 pieces to show what they will be making in this workshop. I will have the little kids work on a collage background and they will draw and paint an animal of their choice. As I’m writing, I am thinking I’ll bring some sketches for them to see and use as their starting point. The older kids will learn how to “activate” the paper to start a background and slowly work their way to the top layer. They will have photographs that they can use for inspiration. Basically, I need to paint the pieces I will have them paint.

So this is my Sunday morning: a cup of café, some of my favourite tunes and the best company while I write. This is my happy place!

I realize I have several happy places: this is one, my studio is another, my art, those 6:00 am moments when the house is quiet and still dark when I can hear myself think, and listening to Silvi and Julie sing their beautiful harmonies. I’ve had many a times in which the two of them were home, playing their guitars and singing while I would be painting on the dining table. Priceless moments.

Which brings me to my gratitude: I am grateful for some very special humans in my life. My daughter Silvi, my inspiration, my rock, my angel, my friend. Her besties Rochelle and Julie. I keep so many wonderful and special memories of when they came home. They too are my daughters in a way, and I am grateful because they are also a big part of my life. Special mention here and credit to Rochelle Leblanc, founder of The Tumbler Guru who, so selflessly gave me tons of marketing and online business advice. I am also grateful for my partner James who supports my practice and with whom I share studio space. Last but not least, my life companion, Polo Da Dog. He is definitely a loving “human”.

So this is it for this week, thank you for reading and until the next time!