I graduated with an MFA in studio art back in May, and this month (September), I officially started working as an independent artist. I was so focused on hustling during grad school—especially during thesis—that it just occurred to me that I am living my dream. To be an artist. I had this realization last night while I was brushing my teeth before bed. It was this particular memory that came to me: when I was about 6 or 7 years old, my uncle asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I told him I wanted to be an artist. He disappeared for a few minutes and returned with his olive green beret in his hand. He told me to keep it, and that it was now my artist beret. And here I am decades later still wearing wool berets and loving art.
Art has always been a part of my life, ever since my little hands could hold a crayon. It delights me that I actually get to pursue my dream. I wonder if 7-year-old me would be giggling and jumping with joy—I sure hope so! I feel that way on the inside. That’s all I have to say. I got so excited I wanted to document this somewhere and share my excitement with somebody.
And here are some pictures of my studio, my art, and my life recently. (I’m working on a small collection of flower illustration). Hoping to officially launch my brand and website soon. EEEEK!
