This Summer in the Mountains has been quite wet and mild, however not the past two days of fierce heat and humidity. Soaring temperatures sent many of us scuttling for air-conditioned comfort or cool water to find refreshment.
The relaxed vibe of January has given way to ‘back to school’ and work priorities and I find myself noticing the change in pace. Imperceptibly pressure seems to have built as people make requests, events fill the calendar and expectations mount up.
Despite this, I am determined to keep a steady pace. To walk gently on the earth, paying attention to the new shoots on my fruit trees, the changing colour of the eucalypt bark and the frolicking of my dogs. Instead of rushing from one place to another, only partly seeing the people and places in my midst, I intend to slow down enough to look and breathe deeply, to connect and experience each moment.
I’d love to connect with you, to share time, creative processes and stories. I’d love you to write back or pick up the phone to chat with me. At the risk of adding to your calendar rush, I’d love you to join me for a workshop or to see my paintings on exhibit at Stella Downer Fine Art over the next few weeks.
Each year Stella Downer begins her exhibition lineup with a Summer Show and I’m thrilled to be included again. The show opens this Saturday 10 February, at 3 - 5 pm. Come and enjoy a drink and a chat and meet the other six artists. The address and other details are in the image below or click the link.
The exhibition promises to be a beautiful display of diverse work.
It continues until Saturday 2 March, the same day I will be facilitating a Nature and Creativity Reboot. Taking place in a magnificent tall tree forest in Sun Valley in the Lower Blue Mountains, this guided bush walk and art-making experience will encourage presence, appreciation and creativity.
Finally, if you are keen to support me in getting to the desert to paint in April, please consider purchasing some of my new cards, for yourself or as a gift. Hot off the press, printed on 300gsm linen and with matching envelopes, there are two packs of different images and sizes to choose from.
As I sign off I want to acknowledge the many people who have provided support, understanding and insights on my desert painting expedition. It makes the whole venture seem more significant and impactful to know that you ‘travel with me’ in spirit.
As autumn arrives I consider what I may experience as I paint in the vast, dry landscape of the desert.