Reflect, relax and craft some cozy
Like you, I'm over here shaking my head that it's the end of the year. Was that the fastest one we've ever experienced? I've had a lot on the go recently and I'm sure you have too. So today is all about sharing some fun things and keeping it light and easy.
And decidedly non holiday, because you’ve got enough of that going on already.
Now lets relax and enjoy some happy art and culture diversions for the end of the year.
Okay time to grab a cuppa and settle in for the digest.☕
ps: If you find this even slightly amusing, helpful, provocative or as a call to action for change in to your own life, consider sharing it with some friends. And thank you!
What’s up in My Art Studio?
In the last few weeks, I've done another portrait and shared the process as daily shorts on Youtube. I’ve had lots of fun interviewing artists for my other publication The Artful Desk (still free to subscribe until Jan!) I posted a new mini sketchbook portrait tutorial for you and an article about the challenges of doing art markets as a vendor.
Plus a NEW LIVE art playtime video I did with Melissa Sly . That was fun and you’re guaranteed a good laugh as we create hilarious drawings with our eyes closed! Perfect children’s (or inner kiddo) activity over the holidays.
New Video Tutorials
I've already chatted about this above but here's your quick links if you’re looking for something to do or some inspo:
Sketchbook Painting. Create a quick portrait in watercolour. How to paint a girl.
Art Playtime! Blind Drawing LIVE 1min and 30sec timed face drawing with your eyes closed
Below is a 2min preview - I added some fun music to it for fun!
Colours I'm in Love with Lately
The fall winter pansies are in bloom! I love these guys and they have the best colour when everything else feels grey. As usual I converted the colours into a beautiful palette and I hope it inspires you to make some Moody wintry art in the next few weeks.
Artists you should know
Really inspired lately by artist and “social media” reframer Kenning Zhu. There’s so much good here I’m having a hard time putting it into words. She examines how we think of art and art marketing and then turns it upside down in a way that is easier with non scheduled and noncommittal posting…that actually makes sense. Her nomadic life and art have created thought provoking articles and an excellent podcast. Centered around the tenant that world building is the goal, not followers. I agree.
Post: Build a world, not an audience | Pod: keningzhu.com/podcast
Good Eats
‘Tis the season of great eating! but if you need a break from all the super rich and holiday themed foods, here's some inspiration and a vintage recipe that's really worth trying! As in it was shockingly good flavour.
Greek Salad: add any combo of greens, feta, olives, peppers, oil, vinegar and oregano
Salmon Lox & Salad Veg: add on buttered or avocado toast and cucumber slices with pepper
Panfried Brussel Sprouts with Roast Chicken, dill yoghurt and pomegranate
MAKE THIS Moroccan Chicken Stew with Lemon. Still cannot get over how tasty this was! My tip: you don’t need preserved lemon - regular worked for me
As a Last Though
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”
- Henry David Thoreau
Lately, I've been taking some pictures of the work I did over the year. I think I'll share it as a bit of a retrospective in another post. It will be my last one for 2025. Keep your eye out for it - I'll include a few portraits you haven't seen before! Then over the next couple weeks I'll be taking a bit of a break.
I encourage you to find in your own way, that which works the best to make you feel relaxed, calm and in the present moment.
Use the dishes, eat the food, drink the drink and enjoy the activities. Now is the time to savour, so don't put them away for later because these are the golden times! So relax, enjoy and make some great memories.
If you're alone or feeling lonely, I encourage you to reach out to people online and know that there are always folks to support you. Even if it doesn't feel like it in the moment. Please come and join in my community chat - it’s a nice supportive space and I’d love to have you there.
Give yourself a hug from me and I'll see you in a few weeks.
~Tanya