I can’t believe it’s June already. Wow, when did that happen?
May came and went in a blink, but it was packed with some incredible moments. I’ve been completely inspired by my morning glory drawing, and that piece kicked off a floral deep dive. I couldn’t stop!
So, I kept the momentum going by exploring daffodils, roses, snowdrops, and more. You’ll find a little gallery of my recent floral studies at the end of this post!
A Sweet Surprise at My Local Art Club
One of my favorite moments this month was being named Artist of the Month by the Visual Arts Guild of Frisco. As a member, I attend their monthly meetings where we’re encouraged to bring a piece for blind voting by fellow artists.
This month, I brought in a flower drawing—roses with bluebonnets in the background—and to my complete surprise, it was voted the winner.
I’ve brought pieces before and never expected to win, so it was a huge and joyful moment for me. I’m incredibly grateful that this piece resonated with others.
Wow, My Full First Cover
If you’ve been following along, you might remember my drawing, The Sun Sets in Barcelona, won Best in Show at the Colored Pencil Society of America’s Explore This! 21 exhibition earlier this year.
Well… I found out that the winning piece is also featured on the cover of the May bi-annual member magazine, and I was interviewed for the issue.
To be honest, this whole experience has felt surreal. I came to art later in life and am self-taught (in the sense that I didn’t attend art school), so I often question my abilities. I even debated entering this piece because I had that all-too-familiar “is this good enough?” feeling. But I submitted it anyway—and I’m so glad I did.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this process, it’s this: confidence grows when you keep showing up, even when doubt tries to take over.
(And no, I haven’t read the interview yet. Have I opened the magazine? Also no as of the publishing of this blog. But I will. Soon. Probably. 🫣)
Annual Self-Portrait Contest
Alright, so I need your help with this one.
I entered Jerry’s Artarama’s Annual Self-Portrait Contest for the third time. But this is the first time I’ve shared it publicly and asked for support. For me, that’s a big step forward in vulnerability and growth.
The contest invites artists to submit original self-portraits for a chance to win part of a $5,000 prize pool. Voting runs from May 12 to June 20, 2025.
(Side note: If you are thinking your vote won't count, please don't. I am far from being a contender based on votting so your vote will make a difference)
Artist Resource: A Paper Discount You Might Love
If you're an artist, designer, or creative who makes prints, greeting cards, or stickers, I have a resource to share.
I use Red River Paper for my printing supplies, and they’re currently offering 10% off with the code RRPLOVE . Offer ends June 15th.
This is where I source my paper, and I highly recommend them if you’re looking for beautiful, archival-quality options.
Now for the fun part—what I’ve actually been drawing lately!
Inspired by the morning glories I shared last month, I’ve been doubling down on florals. I’ve worked on mini studies of specific flowers like daffodils, roses, and snowdrops, plus a few more detailed scenes that pull everything together.
Here's a peek at what’s been blooming on the drawing table. Which is your favorite? Let me know. I always love hearing from you!
Thanks for reading through this full May recap. Feel free to email me or leave a comment below—connecting with you is one of the best parts of sharing my work.
