I’m really excited about 2025! 2024 was a very challenging year, however, as I reflect on all of the difficulties that came along with it, I believe it has nurtured my resilience and creativity. After navigating some challenging personal experiences and undergoing two surgeries, I found myself feeling quite lost in my artistic journey. However, I’ve begun to notice a new energy building within me, urging me to step into a transformative phase. With this realization, I’m excited to share my word for the year with you: “EMERGE!"
To me, “EMERGE” reflects the journey of stepping into the light after spending time in the shadows. I don't mean this in a dramatic sense or to suggest my life was filled with darkness; rather, I found myself disconnected from who I truly am. I was caught up in just tackling the next problem, and moving ahead without really tuning into my intuition, creativity and my innate energy. “EMERGE” is about transformation and new beginnings, it’s a powerful reminder that after every challenge there is an opportunity for reawakening. As I look ahead to 2025, I feel ready to reveal the growth and creativity that have been simmering beneath the surface during a turbulent year.
2025 isn’t just a new year for me; it’s the start of a fresh chapter in my art career. I’m especially excited about diving into the world of rug tufting, where I can explore this hands-on medium as a way to express my creativity in vibrant, dynamic ways. Alongside my painting, rug tufting offers me a chance to experiment and grow, expanding my artistic voice into some thrilling new directions.
With the horizon in sight, I’m excited about an upcoming teaching opportunity I have secured for the spring. While I feel a mix of nerves and excitement, I know that teaching is a vital part of my journey. (Side note: I actually have my B.Ed. and used to be a teacher for a short time!) This gives me the chance to share my passion while also learning from the students. I miss the type of connection and energy that teaching offers.
As a participant and organizer of the Calgary Artists Studio Tour, I’m eager to showcase my work and connect with fellow artists and art lovers. This event is a key moment for our community, and I plan to dive in fully - sharing not just my art but also my journey of emergence. Building connections within this vibrant network enriches my experience and opens doors to exciting new possibilities.
The essence of how I interpret “Emerge” reminds me to trust in the universe. I know that when I stay open to whatever comes my way instead of trying to force specific outcomes life tends to work better for me. Life has a wonderful way of bringing opportunities just when we need them. By focusing on the process rather than the destination, I can embrace a mindset filled with creativity and possibility.
As I step into 2025, I invite you to join me on this journey of emergence. Together, let’s embrace new beginnings, explore creative paths, and trust the process. There’s so much beauty waiting for us, and I’m excited to reveal my art and myself in fresh, inspiring ways. Here’s to a year of growth, exploration, and the joy of stepping into our true selves! Thank you for being part of my journey—let’s make this year transformative together.