One of the things that I love about journaling is the ability to look back, which then also enables me to celebrate my achievements, learn from my mistakes, make adjustments, and look forward to what’s ahead. I have done this for years in my personal written journals, and I started to share my art reflections on this blog in 2007, did one in 2008, and now for 2009.
For 2008 I really focused on being present for my little guy while still making sure that I kept up with my artwork and being open to opportunities that presented themselves to me.
Looking back now, 2008 was a big year for our family and also for my art. Moving from Seattle to Chicago was the defining force of our life this past year. But in moments between I managed to produce new work and to keep exploring. It was tough at times finding the time and finding the balance, but I am thankful for the time that I did get.
Published:
:: My blog was featured in Artful Blogging, volume 2
:: Had artwork included in 3 books and 1 magazine
Learned
:: Workshop with Stephanie Lee in Snohomoish, WA and a workshop with Judy Wise in Cedarburg, WI
:: Took an intuitive painting class in Chicago, IL with Melanie Brown. Something inside has definitely shifted because of this class.
Shows
:: I hosted my first open studio during the Ballard Art Walk
:: Featured artist at 2 different venues in the Ballard Art Walk
:: Exhibited in 2 group shows
:: Had work hanging somewhere- gallery, show or coffeeshop consistently from January-August
Produced:
:: Created 30 new paintings (this is not including mixed media panels that were bound into journals)
:: Sold 23 paintings (not including journals)
:: redesigned amanobooks.com
In less quantifiable terms:
:: Still proving to myself that “where there’s a will, there’s a way”
:: Feeling looser when I paint
:: Learning to accept that I have time and energy limitations
:: Learned to accept that my art will always be there for me, even if I cannot focus on it fully at this moment.
And now onto my intentions…….. I’ll save that for another post.
kudos on your 2008 inventory of successfully moving through the world as a working AND sane artist…this is a fabulous list.
Bravo! Imagine what the new walk round the wheel will bring.
I love reading about everyone’s looking back on their year! May your 2009 be just as productive!
Happy New Year, Bridgette !!
Cannot wait to see where your new “learned” techniques take you.
Nominated you for The Lovely Blog Award. If you have a minute, check my blog under “With Gratitude” for details. I think your work is spectacular and your blog so real, vibrant and inspiring.
🙂
Shelly
What a great year 2008 was for you. Hard work and success well deserved!
hi bridgette,
i love your work and your posts!
thank you for being an inspiration to me!-stacey
hi Bridgette, i left a comment for you but it looks like it never went through…wanted to wish you a happy new year and also let you know how annoyed i am at myself for being slow and missed a chance at winning a painting of yours!! if i have a superpower, i would want to be able to go back and forth in time.
you are incredible, Bridgette, for achieving so much in a year’s time. i think that’s your superpower. you forgot to add:
::Touched and inspired millions of readers with your words and art
::Generously shared techniques and resources without asking or expecting anything in return
::Provided a constant place here where one can come to find affirmation of something good and real