Words for the New Year

Below is a mixed media collage from one of my art journal pages. The first collage of the new year!

I don’t make New Year’s resolutions anymore. Instead I focus on words that embody the energy I would like to bring into the upcoming year. This year the words are: peace, play, allow, intention, and gentle.

Play is an important word for 2024. I tend to take things seriously, and I forget to notice the joyful moments. It is easy to get bogged down by the details of adult life and the horrific events in the world. As the world becomes increasingly chaotic, pausing (when we can) to appreciate the moments of joy and play is essential for going forward. Art making, cooking, dancing, singing, and gathering together with loved ones are all a forms of play that help create a peaceful state of being.

For me, art making has become an essential part of my mental health. I used to think I should not have the “luxury” of making art - especially if others are suffering. I also thought you had to be good at making art or it was a waste of time.

Now I view it as a necessity that allows me to show up for myself and others. Like walks with friends or getting adequate rest. I am grateful for practices that can be done in a limited time frame since this season of life can be busy! Kids, dogs, work, aging parents, hormonal shifts…there’s a lot going on in midlife. Art is a wonderful tool for recalibrating.

I’ve been working on creating a resource page on my website with helpful books, easy creative exercises that can be done within a limited time, my favorite creative tools, and classes/teachers.

I’m also working on putting together Collage Care Packages with papers and tea to send out to some of you for being supportive as a way to give back and share! I will post more info soon.

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