Hi Friends,
I’ve just returned from an incredible plein air painting adventure in Italy, and I’m bursting with inspiration and excitement to create art with all of you! My journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Umbria, Tuscany and Lake Como was a powerful reminder that pursuing our artistic inclinations, and any dream for that matter, often comes with a healthy dose of struggle and self-doubt. But oh, is it worth it!
The first day in Corciano, as I gazed out at the vast, rolling hills of Umbria, pure panic set in.
My mind raced: Where do I even begin? How do I capture this immensity? What colors, what details do I focus on, and what do I leave out? Imposter syndrome hit me like a wave, and all I wanted to do was pack up my easel and run far, far away.
But I didn’t. I stayed. I faced the challenges head-on—hauling my surprisingly heavy plein air backpack up endless flights of steps, navigating painting amidst throngs of influencers (that’s a story for another time!), and even battling the wind and persistent ants. And with every brushstroke, every moment of perseverance, I learned. I learned to fix a broken easel, to approach a blank canvas in the open air, and perhaps most importantly, how to simplify a complex landscape, finding its essence rather than getting lost in every detail.
It was undeniably challenging, and I still have so much more to learn. Yet, I wouldn’t trade the ups and downs of that experience for anything. I’ve fallen in love with plein air painting. There’s a profound calmness that washes over your soul when you’re immersed in nature, capturing the fleeting beauty of a moment with your own hands.
I’m so happy to be home now, refreshed and eager to reconnect with all of you. I can’t wait to share some new landscape paintings in the near future!
So, whatever your artistic aspirations or personal dreams may be, remember that the initial fear and uncertainty are just part of the journey. Push through the discomfort, embrace the learning curve, and trust that every “struggle” is simply a stepping stone to growth. Your unique perspective and creative voice are waiting to be unleashed.
What artistic dream are you ready to pursue, even if it feels a little daunting at first?