Oh me oh my!

The only thing I can say is - oh my!!! Where has the year gone? These past few months have been some of the busiest of my life. I was teaching art and English in South Korea right up until the first day of the semester, moved, started my last semester of grad school, Mark left for the Marines :(, and bam - here we are, the first day of 2014. I could not be more pleased with my first year of adventures as an artist - and I am so thankful for all of you and your support in my creative endeavors! I feel so blessed to have been able to pursue my passion and create work as an artist. I thought a great way to reflect on 2013 would be to share some of the things that inspired me as an artist.

1. Nature. Whenever I'm in a creative rut. I'm always inspired by going for a run in the park or around town. It helps me clear my mind and get inspired.

2. Working with fabulous students in the art classroom! I love seeing young students learn about themselves and the world through their artwork. 

3. Exploring new cities. I love all of the architecture, food and culture to be explored in new places.

4. New adventures! This summer we attempted to learn how to sail. It was a blast. However, I can not be trusted to take anyone on a sailing trip any time soon. ;)

5. Traveling. For anyone who knows me, traveling is one of my other passions. It's so exciting to visit places I've never been!

6. Taking time to play! Whenever life gets too crazy - there's nothing better than carving in a little time for play. Especially if you can find a backyard swing!

7. Art shows! I love the environment of art shows - so many creative people in one place! 

8. Fresh peonies from my mama's garden.

9. Trying new types of art. This past semester I took a sculpture class and I can't deny -  it was challenging. I never expected that I would have to sculpt a live figure from clay.

10. Dollhouse furniture and other such treasures. It has been a delight to explore the world of mixed media and all of the objects that can be brought to life through artwork. Old letters, postcards, stamps, charms, you name it.

My New Year's resolution for 2014 is to post to my art blog more. I want to share more about my process and life as an artist. When I first began thinking of myself as an artist, I loved to read the beginning of other artists' blogs - how it all got started. I wish everyone a fabulous 2014 and I hope that you take time to explore your passions, too! :)

-kate