It is so easy to get caught up in the fast pace of producing artwork... aiming to get new collections out as quickly as possible, juggling deadlines, and constantly moving to the next thing. But if this time in Italy has taught me anything, it’s that true, lasting craftsmanship cannot be rushed.
I’ve been completely blown away by how detailed, beautiful, and handcrafted everything is in Italy.
Exploring Rome with my family was just breathtaking. Walking through the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, you're standing right in front of centuries of intentional, painstaking art. Every carved stone, every arch, every architectural detail was made by human hands that took their time.
And then, the Sistine Chapel... I walked in and immediately started crying, it was just so beautiful. I think it also hit me that I wasn't sure if I would ever see this place in person, and the fact that I was standing in a place that I have wanted to visit for so long was just overwhelming. Standing there, looking up, I was just completely blown away by the sheer beauty and scale of it all. It’s impossible not to absorb that level of devotion to fine art.
When we got to Florence, I was able to spend a half day at the Uffizi Gallery, and I just absolutely loved it. Being in that space allowed me to really tune everything out, hone in, and focus... taking my time instead of rushing through.
Towards the end of the Tuscany portion of my residency, that energy really started showing up in my studio work. I started leaning heavily into intricate line work, dropping any worry about time and just letting myself get lost in the process.
One of my biggest takeaways from this whole experience has been a massive reminder to slow down. I want to flip my old habit on its head—instead of asking how quickly I can turn something around, I want to focus entirely on fine-art-driven craftsmanship, incredible detail, and taking all the time necessary to make something truly beautiful.
I want to incorporate this into my personal life, too.
Taking the extra time isn't a delay... it's the whole point. 💛
I'm so excited to bring this new energy back and share this next chapter with you all. Thank you so much for being on this journey with me! Just a few more days remaining!
Pic above: Getting ready to tour the Vatican!
Pic above: The Colosseum
Pic above: Another family pic! Can you tell that Caedon LOVES doing Zombie arms (Monster Trucks...lol)?
Pic above: Roman Forum
Pic above: View from my last morning in Tuscany. One of the most beautiful places I have ever been.
