One month. I have been away for the first month of 2020. Not only to take a break, but to recharge, re-energize, and set my sights on new adventures for this coming year.

I travel a lot. Usually when I travel I bring a suitcase full of canvases and paint. This is the first time I am travelling canvas and paint free. Well, I did bring a little watercolour sketchbook with me. Let’s not get crazy! Surprisingly I haven’t missed painting. I know that may come as a surprise to you too as most of you know I paint every single day. I was worried that after the first few days I would be bored and miss it terribly. What I discovered was I actually needed the break.

Last year and particularly last Fall was an extremely busy time for me and my family. Commissions, paintings for the Gallery, family issues, and life in general. We all experience times of great stress and busyness. I really didn’t understand how much pressure and stress I was under until I came on my holiday and relaxed for the first time in months.

Travel Sketches

New Adventures

Now just because I haven’t been painting doesn’t mean I haven’t been doing anything. I started an online course called “Creating The Impossible for 2020”, I have my lesson plans all organized for my Italy art retreat and I’ve also been researching and planning art weekend retreats throughout various Ontario locations for the coming year. I have been planning workshops for the Gallery and my home studio and I am ready to hit the ground running when I return home next week. Fully energized, already painting in my head my next paintings, imagining being at the gallery painting with Debra and Lorne. Excited about the coming adventures and my new painting series.

What’s Next

In the coming days a list of the upcoming workshops will be made available. This year I will be offering sip and paint nights, one day workshops, weekend workshops, and a week-long workshops. Some of these classes will be available at the gallery, my home studio, and offsite locations. I am currently looking at Muskoka, Kimberley, and perhaps Quebec city.

Not only will these weekend and week long art retreats focus on painting but will include other options like yoga, healing through art, and other mindfulness practices. There will be hiking, kayaking and spa options when available. A true mind, spirit and creative “experience” for any level.

In order not to miss out on any of these opportunities please join my mailing list. You will be the first to receive notifications and special offers.

I am looking forward to spending an amazing and creative 2020 with you.