July is always a special month for me as it’s my birthday month! This year was an extra milestone (at least according to society)… I turned 40. 🎉
I didn’t celebrate in a grand way. And I’ve never been totally comfortable with making a big fuss over myself. But I did celebrate feeling stronger, at peace, and more grounded than ever as I stepped into a new decade. I’m genuinely excited for what’s ahead.
Here’s a peek at how the month unfolded.
A perfect night out to celebrate the birthday.
Pressing Pause: My First Official Studio Break
When I started my art business, I promised myself I’d make space to relax and recharge. Running my smoothie business taught me how easy it is to burn out when you never truly disconnect.
This year, I aligned my first official “studio break” with Colored Pencil Society of America’s (CPSA) Annual Convention and Exhibition in Bethesda, Maryland, a hub for colored pencil artists and a treat for collectors.
Convention Highlights
Last year, I didn't take full advantage of the CPSA Annual Convention so this time I went all in.
I took an all-day workshop on colored pencil techniques. We used green to create realistic skin tones and I even signed my husband up. It was his first drawing ever… and he did great! Plus, now he has a better appreciation for the patience colored pencils require. Win-win.
The convention was packed with:
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Workshops like the one I took with award winning artist Buena Johnson
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Drop-in sessions on the business of art, the behind the scenes of jurying an art show and a deep dive into the characterics of wax vs. oil based pencils
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A gala with fantastic door prizes
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A banquet honoring this year’s competition winners
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An artist reception at The Mansion at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland to see the exhibition of all the artwork selected for the annual juried show
My piece The Sun Sets in Barcelona was invited after winning the Explore This! Explore This! online colored pencil art competition, and seeing it on the wall and on the cover of the CPSA magazine, To the Point, was a proud moment.
My Art in the Wild
One of the sweetest surprises this month was spotting my work “in the wild.” Artist, Author and Creator of Norman and Shark, Heather Karlsson, shared a photo of her celebratory gifts for her book pre-launch, and there among the thoughtful tokens was one of my greeting cards. I didn’t even know it had found its way to her, which made the moment even more special.
Click here to checkout Healther Heather Karlsson’s art and book illustrations on IG!
My Idyllic Goat Adventures greeting Card , a whimsical design from my stationery collection
Exploring Beyond the Studio
We turned the trip into a little tour— Washington, DC, Annapolis, Maryland, and Upstate New York—mixing museums, galleries, shops, and plenty of scenic stops. There was so much history learned and dots connected during this trip. Also, I came home with a camera roll full of reference photos for future work.
A view of the U.S. Capitol Building from the Washington Monument in DC. We also requested a tour of the Capitol prior to visiting which provided a slow paced and personalized tour.
A tour of the Maryland State House in historic Annapolis, Maryland.
A stop at the Saratoga Battlefield Park and nearby Congress Park in Saratoga Springs, New York
Interestingly, I noticed how often my lens was drawn to flowers. I think it’s the way the mind works. When something is already on your mind, you naturally start noticing it everywhere. Since I’m deep into my Birth Flower Collection right now, it makes sense that blooms kept catching my eye.
How could I not sop to take a photo of these bright orange daylilies in Saratoga Springs
1 Kommentar
Such a beautiful read, Renee! I look forward to more ! Thanks for sharing and remembering me on your email list. Your flower collection is absolutely gorgeous. And Happy Belated Birthday!
Say hi to Anthony from both of us.
Cheers, Liz.