This past year has been an amazing year for me as an artist. I have spent many hours – many, many hours – exploring, practicing and learning all the elements of surface pattern design. I have to admit, learning illustrator was a massive undertaking, but I am so glad that I jumped in with both feet and got it done. An entirely new world of creating is now at my fingertips. So exciting! I am slowly starting to piece the business elements with the artistic components. I have met numerous great designers along the way and am blown away by the grace and assistance they have extended to me – what a beautiful world.
The quote by Seneca, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings’ end”, sums up my pilgrimage in art. It is incredible to look back and see how every step along my way has helped lead me to where I am now.
This year I have also learned to be gracious with myself. If I don’t feel like I am good enough or things are not happening fast enough, I can’t flourish and grow. I know I am not alone when it comes to feelings of inadequacy. So many established pattern designers have relayed the same story to me. It is easier to extend grace to others than to yourself; however, I know I am worth it, and I can accomplish the goals I have set for myself.
I have included a design in this post, my screen saver, that incorporates elements from a couple of the patterns I am working on for a collection. I will also be making available clip art of some of the motifs. There are many designs to come, but also much work to be done as I continue to learn and grow in this business. I am up for the challenge and thrilled to see where this journey will lead.
This particular design incorporates the saying, grace wins. This saying holds special meaning for me on many levels, but that is a topic for another post. Till then my goal is to extend a little grace to my world around me. People have bad days and need a little grace.
Designs and Patterns will be posted in my Design Gallery.