This Week in my Studio + Framing (!!!)

It’s our first week in the "new version" of this business (whew, what a journey!), and there has been a lot to figure out. It’s lots of computer work that no one really sees, but it is extremely important. It’s not exciting at all, but it lays our foundation, so it’s completely essential. 

As for art, I’ve been at my computer for most of this week and next week too, but I have been able to spend a little time in my sketchbook with a focus on landscapes. It’s very different from my typical style, but I’m heading to Italy in September for an artist residency, and I’ve been trying to prepare in a way that feels natural to me. I want to be ready enough to feel confident in my work and style and really soak in what’s around me when I’m there.

I’ve been using gouache for my sketchbook pieces, which is kind of new for me. I love the bold colors and how easily you can layer with the paint. I’ve also been doing some watercolor landscapes in my sketchbook, because how could I go to Italy and not do watercolors when they’re the reason I’m there? My watercolor landscapes are loose, unfinished, and messy, but they feel true to me, and I like that.

The good news is that painting feels really different right now than it did a year ago. I’m not sitting down thinking about what I need for a big account or what to make because it will sell. Right now, I’m just trying to paint what feels right and grow and improve my craft. To enjoy it again.

And because of that, I’ve painted more this year than I have in the last two combined, which is kind of wild.

I’ve made a lot of changes in my business recently because I wasn’t okay with where things were headed or how much it was taking me away from my family. I still have big (huge!) goals, and I still want to build something meaningful, but I’m making it fit my life instead of letting it take it over.

I knew it would be a challenge to change where everything was headed. In business terms, it’s actually been a lot harder than I expected. In personal terms, it has been so much lighter and easier. So I know it’s the right direction. I feel more like myself than I have in a long time.

We also added something new recently that I’ve been wanting to offer for a long time, which is framing (eeek!). All of our 50 State Wildflower Collection and our 50 State Flower Collection now have full framing options (yay!) and they’re now also available on canvas! 

People have asked for this for years, and I waited until I found the right partner. It was important to me that the quality was really high and that everything was made in the USA. Side note: it’s extremely high quality and totally handcrafted. Your order is made to order. It arrives ready to hang and ready to live in your home.

There’s still a lot that feels new right now, and it honestly feels like I’m starting this business over again, but it feels right again, so that’s my compass. 

I’m really excited about what I’m creating and where it’s all going. I have two collections in the works and can’t wait to share progress soon!

xo

P.S. Caedon is mid-baseball season and loving it. We've had such a blast cheering him and his teammates on.