winter sun bathing a forest scene, bare trees and a brown leafy ground. A bright blue sky is in the background. The mood of the photo is hopeful, bright and golden.

'Winter Sun' - My Artist Blog

2023. This year feels different somehow doesn’t it? I know it’s not just me, there’s a definite energy out there. There’s a lot going on in the world that's devastating, but as always, there is the balance. There is so much good.

With my art this year I want to explore that good more. I want to push myself to create things outside of my comfort zone. I also want to see more art and immerse myself in it. Learn more. Both practically and educationally. And so, to put action to those desires I’m committing to more sketchbook practice and to do more oil painting studies and online learning (amongst other goals).

I think it’s so important to put emphasis on the sort of growth mindset that is required to commit to an artist journey. I certainly didn’t realise straight away how much it takes to really commit to it. Or how much of an advocate you have to be for yourself as a creative in general despite disappointments, objections and rejection/failure. But, my entire life there's been one thing that’s certainly been consistent and that is my commitment to creativity in some way, shape or form.

 

This year I want to truly embody that commitment.


So far this year I have started a few paintings, none are yet completed. I’m trying to actively slow down when it comes to painting. I mean, I don’t want to slow down in terms of the completion of my paintings. That’s something I want to speed up. But in terms of my mindset I want to stop focusing so much on (what I think) the finished piece will be. On how I want to present it. Or how it SHOULD be presented in order for it to be 'successful'. I want to simply enjoy and just make an artwork that is a literal piece of me. 


a work in progress shot showing a palette with paints and a small easel


Something else I’ve been thinking over the past couple of months about how I can show up more authentically to the world and my community. Something I love about being an artist is the value of community. My creativity has led me to meet some of the best people in places where we share common interests and values. Something I didn’t quite envision when embarking on this journey and a definite blessing. I want to continue to grow a community in which people and of course I, myself truly feel authentically seen, heard and appreciated.

January was a time of planning and reflecting. Resting. February is similar, however representative and reflective of the beautiful Aquarius energy it has been a time where I have been thinking about how I can think differently and be open to being vulnerable with the parts of me that make me, me. 

I’m looking forward to Spring and the energy it brings. And I look forward to unveiling new paintings with the blossoming of the daffodils. :)


Love,

Jalieka

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