Reflecting

As 2019 comes to a close, and I look back at the things I’ve accomplished in the last year, the things I wanted to accomplish but didn’t get to, and the things I plan to do in the year ahead, although it doesn’t always feel like it, I guess I’ve come a long way!

I really only started this journey into learning and practicing botanical art eight short years ago, not knowing if I could do it at all, let alone develop and sell it as a sustainable business. A few years of study and practice (an ever ongoing process) and marketing products and merchandise to support myself in doing what I love to do everyday, has been a wonderful adventure of embracing a dream. I highly recommend it!

For the last few years I’ve participated in at least 12 artist markets/art fairs per year, which requires making LOTS of merchandise to sell, several fine art exhibits per year, some nationally and internationally as collaboratives and some solo events locally. I’ve produced and delivered contract artwork for various projects and publications, and developed online and local shops to help sustain my business as well. Along with teaching classes and individual tutoring, group talks and demos, and even an arts publication print interview and a radio interview with the local NPR affiliate (for an introvert like myself that’s quite a big deal!). All of these things combine to make up my days and keep me inspired to continue to grow and develop my art.

I have more big plans for the year ahead, which I may or may not execute in the crazy balance of life. I guess I’ll reevaluate it all again next year and probably overthink all of those plans as I always do, that’s just how I roll. Remembering that life is a journey and a process of becoming who we’re really meant to be. Enjoy your journey!

“Every season is one of becoming, but not always one of blooming. Be gracious with your ever evolving self.”

-B. Oakman

WMUK Art Beat interview with Zinta Aistars, Dec.2019