On The Artist's Doorstep #5: New Year Musings

 "Winter reminds us that everyone and everything needs some quiet time." -Katrina Mayer

Last year's surprise snow

This past Fall was a busy season for me - between Art Walks, commissions, painting ornaments and holidays I feel wrung dry of creativity. I find myself craving quiet time, time to sit in front of a fire (if only it would get cold enough here in Texas!), time to gather some inspiration, time to rest. 

commissions and ornaments

With warmer than normal temperatures, it has been hard to just relax. I need the cold weather so I want to snuggle in, read, and dream about this new year. I know I need the time to rejuvenate and find inspiration. To that end, I've decided to take up the challenge, David Tripp (click on his name to see his art - his watercolors are beautiful), friend and owner of the Gallery at the Redlands, gave - to do a sketch a day for the whole year. It will motivate me to draw. Furthermore, I received a new sketchbook for Christmas so I am set to go! I spent the afternoon in the studio creating my first sketch.

First sketch of the year

And thankfully the weather is cooperating - this evening temperatures are supposed to drop dramatically - bringing us highs in the 40s and lows in the 20s. The fireplace is ready and I am too! 

"JOY" - Things That Bring Me Joy

joy:
noun
the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation

One of my favorite things to do at the farm is to watch the world wake up early in the morning.

The moon setting right before the sun comes up

The sun peeking over the trees

Sitting on the back porch with a cup of coffee listening to the birds start to sing - all bring me joy.

My artwork brings me joy as well. The whole process of mixing colors,

putting brush to canvas, creating a beautiful picture - all a wonderful joy-filled time spent with the Lord.

Having a talented artist recognize my talent and encourage me is joy-filling. David Tripp is a very talented watercolorist and one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. It's through him my paintings are showing in a wonderful gallery - The Redlands Gallery in Palestine, TX. You can click on both names to read more about them. So yes, this has brought much joy into this artist's heart.

Spring is a time of renewal and that always brings joy to a Winter-weary heart. The wildflowers are bursting into bloom, flowerbeds awakening, and baby animals frolic in pen and pasture.

Old house in Palestine with Azaleas and Wisteria

My family, my pets, my friends....

I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. 😊

My hope is I capture joy in my paintings. To paint scenes and things that bring joy to your heart and mind.

"Texas Spring" 8x8 oil 

Because there is so much to find JOY in.

Speaking of things that bring me joy, I'll be sharing the final reveal of the art studio on Monday.