As we fast approach the time when the veil is thinnest on the eve of Samhain or All Hallows, everyone is dressing in kooky costumes and temperatures are on the rise here in the southern hemisphere. I reflect on the past few months which have been a blur of activity, and oh what a ride it has been!
Firstly, I was very fortunate to revisit a place that has always been a gem in my artist’s eye… Venice.
Spending three wonderful days living in, exploring the winding laneways and loving the quieter side of the beautiful canal city.
I also experienced first time cruising through the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas, visiting Croatia and the Greek Isles with my Canadian travel bestie. What a fabulous experience. Waking to the gentle swish of the ocean and balmy summer breezes definitely recharged my Piscean soul. So many amazing places and experiences I will treasure for ever and such a delight for a artist/photographer’s eye.
In the past few months I have been working hard on a children’s picture book, the first of three commissions for the wonderfully supportive and unique publisher Little Pink Dog Books. I am chafing at the bit to share a little of the journey, but everything is secret squirrel for the moment. I am so happy with the results thus far and can’t wait to let a few of those images loose very soon.
As the silly season is fast approaching, I can’t help but think how very different this year has been for me.
I am living my dream that has been with me from my childhood. As I sat on my Mama’s knee while she read so many beautiful books to me, images of characters twirled in my head, just itching to be brought to life. Always my biggest champion, I wish she could see how far I have come. I know she is with me always and can see her proud smile in my mind’s eye.
I have waited a long time to live my authentic life as an artist. The journey has taken me to many places, dark and light, but it has all been in preparation for these incredible times ahead, for which I am well and truly ready and thankful.
So much work still to do and so many people to catch up with and share stories. I have learned to make time for it all and let unnecessary stress fall by the way. Finally, I can say that I am content Mama. x
Early morning Venice - Gondolas on the Grand Canal.