This week has been full of business classes alongside a solid day of painting heavy floral detail.
I made the decision in June to get training in a few areas of business that I was struggling with, and the past two weeks have been full of my first course. It has been absolutely amazing, challenging, and inspiring. This course feels almost like a college-level class, but I knew I needed to step up my business skills to hit some big goals I’ve set for 2026 and 2027. Honestly? I’m kinda loving every minute of it. As much as I crave stillness, peace, and quiet mornings, I almost equally crave an intellectual challenge. It's kind of a weird balance, but it works for me... haha.
As for art, here is a look at the new Mama & Baby Octopus piece! I still have several hours and 1–2 layers to go, but I am really happy with how it's coming together.
This piece is shaping up to be the centerpiece of a 3-piece set for our coastal collection. Originally, I designed this set with coastal nurseries in mind, but the deeper I get into it, the more I realize these pieces are going to look incredible anywhere in a home that loves an elevated beach vibe. (Plus, yeah... there will be matching wallpaper coming soon!)
The blue whale piece is officially wrapped up, and the octopus will be done next week. When I say this octopus piece is intricate, I mean intricate. Just putting down the second layer of paint took a solid 8 hours. The fine line work and all the tiny details mean I still have several hours of painting left to go, but seeing it come to life—and thinking about how many homes these pieces will one day be in—truly brings so much joy to my life and makes all the hard work worth it.
There’s still one final piece left to paint after this one to complete the trio, and I'm really hoping to finish it prior to my artist residency in Italy! The wallpaper will have to wait until I get back.
Thank you so much for following along on this journey with me—from the business pivot to all my new work.
I am so thankful for you.
