2021: recap and thoughts for the future

2021 was the year my mindset went from “I happen to be unemployed and sell art” to “maybe I can do art full time after all?”. I spent a lot of time thinking about how I want to build my business, what I value in life and what I want to focus my energy on. I’ve been moving slowly thinking a lot about the future and how I want to continue honouring my Mom.

These are all big questions I never let myself contemplate before. I spent the bulk of my twenties doing what I thought I was “supposed to” even though it was unfulfilling and draining. Even now, I know there are things I “should be doing” for my business that I’ve consciously avoided. For example, I’ve been reconsidering the role of social media in my business. I’ve been pretty quiet since I want to make sure what I’m putting out into the world is valuable, instead of being swept up chasing followers and likes. These platforms aim to keep us scrolling for as long as possible and encourage constant content creation, but I’ve realized that I need to be gentle with my expectations for myself. I built a business out of my grief that is very much linked to my mental health and have had to remind myself that I am just one person.

I’ve taken a big step back from saying yes to every opportunity that comes my way and instead am focusing on what feels meaningful and fulfilling. I know this will come as a disappointment to some, but I will not be taking any non-commercial commissions in 2022. I want to focus on drawing all the places I used to enjoy with my Mom before they change or I forget. It’s hard saying “no” but I want to see what would happen if I follow what draws my attention for a while. That being said, I am a person that is constantly changing and could change my mind. 

Becoming an artist full time sometimes makes me feel like I’ve lost my mind. It’s a weird feeling to go from working in a company where your success is measured by your salary and hours worked, to someone who can work at their own pace and decide for yourself what success means. I keep expecting there to be some kind of “life-police” that will drag me back into the corporate world and tell me I can’t pursue art full time but so far, so good.

I’ve really enjoyed building my business slowly this year and seeing my art more and more often around town. It’s been such a joy to connect with people and to hear about their own shared memories of the places I draw. These are the connections that bring me happiness. I am always so grateful to those that support my art and my passion, and still can’t quite believe how kind and supportive everyone has been! 

Some 2021 Highlights: (you can click the links below to read more)

• Being featured in a Victoria News story and the Saanich Newspaper.

• Raising $200 for the BC Cancer Foundation in April.

• Raising $765 for the Ovarian Cancer Society in September’s Walk of Hope.

• Being interviewed for CTV’s Sawatsky Sign off.

• Writing about my story for the “Celebrate a Life” initiative by the Victoria Hospice Society.

• Raising $600 for the Victoria Hospice Society in November.

2021 was a year filled with laughing with good friends, spending time in nature with my family, filling our bellies with good food and good memories and finishing each day with a nice little kitty snuggle. There’s a lot to be grateful for.

Moving forward into 2022, I have some projects that I am very excited for! I can’t wait to share them with you all. Thank you so much for supporting me on this journey and I wish you all health and happiness in the New Year!