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Aryah Art

Fremont Outlook Print - Various sizes
Price$25.00

TERMS & CONDITIONS

©2024 by Allison Duellman. Proudly created with Wix.com

It occurred to me today (after seeing a reel of a dog waiting for his lost owner) why Fig is so in love.
We came back.

He was abandoned at a park as a puppy,
then lived with someone new for 2 weeks.
Emergency foster care.
Longer term foster care.
Then us.
All before one year of age.

Then he went to puppy boarding school.
I hoped he’d remember me.
He did. He did his excited little circles to celebrate when he saw me.
Because I came back.

And then I started to notice he was always there, next to me. How he’d prefer whatever room I was in, even to stay indoors, if that’s where I was.

He was hooked. And so was I.

And I thinks it’s all because I (we) came back.
And we kept coming back.
And he knew we were his pack 🩵

#rescuehusky #figaro #abandonedpuppy #found
#iwillalwayscomeback

It occurred to me today (after seeing a reel of a dog waiting for his lost owner) why Fig is so in love.
We came back.

He was abandoned at a park as a puppy,
then lived with someone new for 2 weeks.
Emergency foster care.
Longer term foster care.
Then us.
All before one year of age.

Then he went to puppy boarding school.
I hoped he’d remember me.
He did. He did his excited little circles to celebrate when he saw me.
Because I came back.

And then I started to notice he was always there, next to me. How he’d prefer whatever room I was in, even to stay indoors, if that’s where I was.

He was hooked. And so was I.

And I thinks it’s all because I (we) came back.
And we kept coming back.
And he knew we were his pack 🩵

#rescuehusky #figaro #abandonedpuppy #found
#iwillalwayscomeback

I was honored to be able to lead a group of wonderful individuals through Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way earlier this year and will be doing so again come January!

Are you local to the Tacoma area and want to join in a group discussion as you navigate your own creative potential? We would love to have you! Click on the QR code in the image to complete an interest form.

The cost? A small donation of $6 per session is suggested.

The reward? Unlimited.

#theartistsway #juliacameron #morningpages #artistdates #synchronicity

I was honored to be able to lead a group of wonderful individuals through Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way earlier this year and will be doing so again come January!

Are you local to the Tacoma area and want to join in a group discussion as you navigate your own creative potential? We would love to have you! Click on the QR code in the image to complete an interest form.

The cost? A small donation of $6 per session is suggested.

The reward? Unlimited.

#theartistsway #juliacameron #morningpages #artistdates #synchronicity

When Sassy isn’t on her deck chair or playing fetch, you can usually find her napping in her “apartment” 🙃. Don’t worry, Russell dutifully carried her to bed where she immediately took over all the pillows.

#Lifestlyeofarescuepup #rescuepitty #sassafrasthedog

When Sassy isn’t on her deck chair or playing fetch, you can usually find her napping in her “apartment” 🙃. Don’t worry, Russell dutifully carried her to bed where she immediately took over all the pillows.

#Lifestlyeofarescuepup #rescuepitty #sassafrasthedog

2 years of Sassafras 🎉

Napping and bedtime are serious business for her, almost as serious as her yard.
She gets carried, tucked in, and buries her faces if the light is still on.
Hiking for her is a course in way-finding her way back home; long stops are unnecessary and she will let you know.
Car rides require an emotional support person next to her - any age, and species will do.
Fetch is life and all days must end with the loudest possible month fight with Fig on our bed.
Russell and Aurielle may be her favorites, but she knows I’m not only the boss, but the one who takes care of her, and she looks to me for security. I imagine I’m a solid 6/10 to her 😂.
She is still the most pampered and most emotional pup I have ever met and I would not change it for anything.
And she has absolutely no idea how good her life is 🤣.

2 years of Sassafras 🎉

Napping and bedtime are serious business for her, almost as serious as her yard.
She gets carried, tucked in, and buries her faces if the light is still on.
Hiking for her is a course in way-finding her way back home; long stops are unnecessary and she will let you know.
Car rides require an emotional support person next to her - any age, and species will do.
Fetch is life and all days must end with the loudest possible month fight with Fig on our bed.
Russell and Aurielle may be her favorites, but she knows I’m not only the boss, but the one who takes care of her, and she looks to me for security. I imagine I’m a solid 6/10 to her 😂.
She is still the most pampered and most emotional pup I have ever met and I would not change it for anything.
And she has absolutely no idea how good her life is 🤣.

Sunset at the coast, just because we can, and the more sunsets we can share with the dogs the better.

In true Sassafras fashion, she cried half the car ride and Fig took over the floor at my feet.

She did have a blast running, almost unafraid of the water now 💗, and showing affection to Fig in her favorite way - body slamming.

Then she took over the front seat, waiting for us to leave, for most of time the rest of us sat in the back of the vehicle and watching the sunset.

Bonus pic of a dead squid she fried to roll in 🙄😂.

Sunset at the coast, just because we can, and the more sunsets we can share with the dogs the better.

In true Sassafras fashion, she cried half the car ride and Fig took over the floor at my feet.

She did have a blast running, almost unafraid of the water now 💗, and showing affection to Fig in her favorite way - body slamming.

Then she took over the front seat, waiting for us to leave, for most of time the rest of us sat in the back of the vehicle and watching the sunset.

Bonus pic of a dead squid she fried to roll in 🙄😂.

I probably waited way too long to get the hands-free leash. Took Fig jogging for a few miles and at no point thought he was going to knock me off my feet 😂.

New adventures unlocked 🤣

Tomorrow = Sassafras

#rescuehusky #tripodhusky #figaro #runningwithhuskies

I probably waited way too long to get the hands-free leash. Took Fig jogging for a few miles and at no point thought he was going to knock me off my feet 😂.

New adventures unlocked 🤣

Tomorrow = Sassafras

#rescuehusky #tripodhusky #figaro #runningwithhuskies

Five mile loop and came home to a new running leash that they were both dying to try out 🤣.

Fig may be be down a leg, and very willing to lounge around with the best of us, but he’s still a husky and seeing a new leash is like Christmas 🎁.

Then Sass cried, wanting to try too, but kept stopping, annoyed I was leading her around the way I was - exactly as she had just watched me do with Figaro 🙃.
.
.
.
Thanks for the company, the pics, and all the goodies after, Leila!

Five mile loop and came home to a new running leash that they were both dying to try out 🤣.

Fig may be be down a leg, and very willing to lounge around with the best of us, but he’s still a husky and seeing a new leash is like Christmas 🎁.

Then Sass cried, wanting to try too, but kept stopping, annoyed I was leading her around the way I was - exactly as she had just watched me do with Figaro 🙃.
.
.
.
Thanks for the company, the pics, and all the goodies after, Leila!

Paddle around Ketron Island.

So many starfish and spider crabs when we go back to the old boat dock (?) in Cormorant Pass. Needless to say the tide was low and the marine life was spectacular.

Thank you again for the invite, Vanessa!

Paddle around Ketron Island.

So many starfish and spider crabs when we go back to the old boat dock (?) in Cormorant Pass. Needless to say the tide was low and the marine life was spectacular.

Thank you again for the invite, Vanessa!

Random (or not so random) things I don’t understand, perhaps aka unpopular opinions because people are weird 🤷🏼‍♀️:

1. Not getting shoes dirty. With the exception of dress shoes, shoes were meant to be walked in, to be used and to touch the ground. To have dirty shoes shows that they have been used as they are supposed to be, and that you have lived; that you have left the house and gone beyond the safety of pavement. And on the note of dress shoes, maybe this goes back middle school dances in WI and heading to a bonfire in a field after, but… I still have not learned to keep those clean either. I assumed that somehow I would figure that out when I hit adulthood, but I still seem to be awaiting that transition at 42 🙃…

1a. Not. Creasing. Shoes. WHY??? They go on your feet, your feet are supposed to bend. Again - Use. The. Shoes. It reminds me of when I was little and I’d save my best art supplies, not knowing when I’d get more. I feel for you, and there will always be more. Use the things.

2. Wearing restrictive shoes. Unless for a specific sport, why?? You are potentially deforming your feet, which leads to additional problems up your body, in the name of fashion. Feet are meant to move 🙂, it’s why they contain so many muscles.
And if you tell me your feet need them it is because you have spent your whole life in them and now need to learn to use all those muscles again.

3. Keeping one’s feet clean all the time. (See also, No. 1) I must clearly go more places outdoors?? I step outside every day, barefoot. I walk everywhere in sandals. I stand in the grass, to touch the soil, to touch the rock. Because when people say to go touch some grass, there is realness behind that. It will lower your stress and blood pressure. We are no different from anything in nature, alive or non-living, to include the rocks. Everything has energy. Everything has electricity. Everything resonates with us, and can provide at least some minute amount of healing and calm when we connect with it. So my feet start every day with dirt on them to some extent.

P.S. Ask me how often I get sick.
.
.
.
Perfection makes me wonder if you’ve ever lived.

Random (or not so random) things I don’t understand, perhaps aka unpopular opinions because people are weird 🤷🏼‍♀️:

1. Not getting shoes dirty. With the exception of dress shoes, shoes were meant to be walked in, to be used and to touch the ground. To have dirty shoes shows that they have been used as they are supposed to be, and that you have lived; that you have left the house and gone beyond the safety of pavement. And on the note of dress shoes, maybe this goes back middle school dances in WI and heading to a bonfire in a field after, but… I still have not learned to keep those clean either. I assumed that somehow I would figure that out when I hit adulthood, but I still seem to be awaiting that transition at 42 🙃…

1a. Not. Creasing. Shoes. WHY??? They go on your feet, your feet are supposed to bend. Again - Use. The. Shoes. It reminds me of when I was little and I’d save my best art supplies, not knowing when I’d get more. I feel for you, and there will always be more. Use the things.

2. Wearing restrictive shoes. Unless for a specific sport, why?? You are potentially deforming your feet, which leads to additional problems up your body, in the name of fashion. Feet are meant to move 🙂, it’s why they contain so many muscles.
And if you tell me your feet need them it is because you have spent your whole life in them and now need to learn to use all those muscles again.

3. Keeping one’s feet clean all the time. (See also, No. 1) I must clearly go more places outdoors?? I step outside every day, barefoot. I walk everywhere in sandals. I stand in the grass, to touch the soil, to touch the rock. Because when people say to go touch some grass, there is realness behind that. It will lower your stress and blood pressure. We are no different from anything in nature, alive or non-living, to include the rocks. Everything has energy. Everything has electricity. Everything resonates with us, and can provide at least some minute amount of healing and calm when we connect with it. So my feet start every day with dirt on them to some extent.

P.S. Ask me how often I get sick.
.
.
.
Perfection makes me wonder if you’ve ever lived.

The release appears have been signed and I can now post about yesterday’s hike! 😂

It was a long day, though not the longest day ever. I still reserve that for that one time on MSH 👀…

14.5 miles and roughly 50,000 steps to Tuck and Robin Lakes. You’re right, that does not math. A lot of tiny steps perhaps 🤷🏼‍♀️.

The weather was glorious, the trail was unmaintained, and when you read the reports about blow downs… well, they were not exaggerating.

One may ask why did I allow Jon to lead us along the unmaintained trail?? I was fairly certain he was motivated enough to make it home the same day and in one piece and that we’d all follow suit. I was right.

And perhaps the best news, contrary to initial reports, no one died and not single person is sick from drinking the glacial water 💁🏼‍♀️.

The release appears have been signed and I can now post about yesterday’s hike! 😂

It was a long day, though not the longest day ever. I still reserve that for that one time on MSH 👀…

14.5 miles and roughly 50,000 steps to Tuck and Robin Lakes. You’re right, that does not math. A lot of tiny steps perhaps 🤷🏼‍♀️.

The weather was glorious, the trail was unmaintained, and when you read the reports about blow downs… well, they were not exaggerating.

One may ask why did I allow Jon to lead us along the unmaintained trail?? I was fairly certain he was motivated enough to make it home the same day and in one piece and that we’d all follow suit. I was right.

And perhaps the best news, contrary to initial reports, no one died and not single person is sick from drinking the glacial water 💁🏼‍♀️.

I’m appreciating this one a lot more than I initially anticipated.

#sunset #acryliccanvaspainting #notwatercolor #moodyclouds #workinprogressart

I’m appreciating this one a lot more than I initially anticipated.

#sunset #acryliccanvaspainting #notwatercolor #moodyclouds #workinprogressart

We took Fig and Sass to Chamber’s Creek for the first time and Sass refused to even get her toes in the water until I walked in 😂. But then she was all in, galloping through the deep parts and being a big brave dog 🥰.

After, we walked around the golf course to help them dry off more, and let them run around the dog park for a bit. It was empty initially and then two smaller dogs joined, and they both did amazing interacting! Sassy looping back around to us periodically as she does, with biggest doggie grin ☺️. This was their first dog park adventure as well bc you never know what other people’s dogs are like 🤷🏼‍♀️.

Needless to say, they are both tuckered out, and were both so proud of them 🥹.

We took Fig and Sass to Chamber’s Creek for the first time and Sass refused to even get her toes in the water until I walked in 😂. But then she was all in, galloping through the deep parts and being a big brave dog 🥰.

After, we walked around the golf course to help them dry off more, and let them run around the dog park for a bit. It was empty initially and then two smaller dogs joined, and they both did amazing interacting! Sassy looping back around to us periodically as she does, with biggest doggie grin ☺️. This was their first dog park adventure as well bc you never know what other people’s dogs are like 🤷🏼‍♀️.

Needless to say, they are both tuckered out, and were both so proud of them 🥹.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but worlds can never hurt me.”

Lie.

I know it hasn’t been that long since I reshared my original experiment, maybe 16 days… but, here you go:

16 days next to each other, half of the same apple, identical jars, and I’d even rotate which side they were on. One was fed words of love, the other words of hate.

You could maybe still eat the good apple, but I’m not going to 🙃. Zero spots. Still solid.

The bad apple = absolute decay.

The kicker? I rarely spoke my thoughts out loud. I’d just stare at one half and direct love or hate towards it.
.
.
.
Words matter.
THOUGHTS matter.

We are not apples but we are both made of water; we have everything naturally in us that makes an apple. We can both thrive or decay.

And this isn’t just directed at your worlds and thoughts, but be aware of others.
Toxic is toxic. No matter who, sever those ties, because it is a slow death.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but worlds can never hurt me.”

Lie.

I know it hasn’t been that long since I reshared my original experiment, maybe 16 days… but, here you go:

16 days next to each other, half of the same apple, identical jars, and I’d even rotate which side they were on. One was fed words of love, the other words of hate.

You could maybe still eat the good apple, but I’m not going to 🙃. Zero spots. Still solid.

The bad apple = absolute decay.

The kicker? I rarely spoke my thoughts out loud. I’d just stare at one half and direct love or hate towards it.
.
.
.
Words matter.
THOUGHTS matter.

We are not apples but we are both made of water; we have everything naturally in us that makes an apple. We can both thrive or decay.

And this isn’t just directed at your worlds and thoughts, but be aware of others.
Toxic is toxic. No matter who, sever those ties, because it is a slow death.

Cheers to 5 years 🎉

Another year of growth, learning, and the continuous pursuit of consistent, effective communication and understanding.

And standards. Apparently I have them and you’re learning graciously to abide 🙃.
.
.
.
You somehow seem to know how to do everything, and you do it well and to completion. That’s a new experience in a partner for me and my appreciation for your help is endless.

You never cease to amaze me and still have little secrets up your sleeve, as do I. The main difference between us being, my response is typically, “Why didn’t you tell me that before?! 😍” While I’m pretty sure yours is typically, “Why didn’t you tell me that before?! 👀😬” 🤣

Your best quality, of course, is being a partner who blushes, smiling ear to ear, just as much watching me filthy, elbow deep in yard work and using power tools as you do when I’m all dolled up, thinking, “Man, she is gorgeous, I’m luckiest guy in the world, and I could totally apocalypse with her😏.” 😅
.
.
.
I’m glad I was in tune enough to notice you when I found you and that you still like me.
Please continue being you.

Here’s to early retirement together, continued laughter at all the things, including ourselves, and to never having to test surviving the downfall of civilization🥂

(Throwback pic to one of the 3 times we went up to Muir in toe shoes because it’s still one of the best pics of us 🤣)

Cheers to 5 years 🎉

Another year of growth, learning, and the continuous pursuit of consistent, effective communication and understanding.

And standards. Apparently I have them and you’re learning graciously to abide 🙃.
.
.
.
You somehow seem to know how to do everything, and you do it well and to completion. That’s a new experience in a partner for me and my appreciation for your help is endless.

You never cease to amaze me and still have little secrets up your sleeve, as do I. The main difference between us being, my response is typically, “Why didn’t you tell me that before?! 😍” While I’m pretty sure yours is typically, “Why didn’t you tell me that before?! 👀😬” 🤣

Your best quality, of course, is being a partner who blushes, smiling ear to ear, just as much watching me filthy, elbow deep in yard work and using power tools as you do when I’m all dolled up, thinking, “Man, she is gorgeous, I’m luckiest guy in the world, and I could totally apocalypse with her😏.” 😅
.
.
.
I’m glad I was in tune enough to notice you when I found you and that you still like me.
Please continue being you.

Here’s to early retirement together, continued laughter at all the things, including ourselves, and to never having to test surviving the downfall of civilization🥂

(Throwback pic to one of the 3 times we went up to Muir in toe shoes because it’s still one of the best pics of us 🤣)

Fig & Sass ran their little hearts out on the beach yesterday 🩵🩷

Sass did not like the water coming at her, but seemed to get better about it once she realized Fig survived it unscathed.

#beachrunningwithdogs #tripoddog #rescuepups #bestdoglife

Fig & Sass ran their little hearts out on the beach yesterday 🩵🩷

Sass did not like the water coming at her, but seemed to get better about it once she realized Fig survived it unscathed.

#beachrunningwithdogs #tripoddog #rescuepups #bestdoglife

Today was Mashel Falls because only one hike solstice weekend just didn’t seem to be enough 🤷🏼‍♀️
#summersolstice #waterfalls #pnw

Today was Mashel Falls because only one hike solstice weekend just didn’t seem to be enough 🤷🏼‍♀️
#summersolstice #waterfalls #pnw

I’d like to say that I carried a 40 pound pack in addition to my daypack, up High Rock, but I don’t believe the pack I was assigned really weighed 40 pounds. Nevertheless when I walked up to the group of individuals who were also waiting for their pack assignments, it quickly became apparent that I was the only female who signed up. Then on the trail it became apparent my kids were these boys ages. Yep, I was the oldest and by about 20 years 😅.

Am I bragging? A little bit. Because bragging doesn’t need to be conceited; you’re allowed to feel proud. 😏
.
.
.
On a more serious note, it was heartbreaking to see, and even more heartbreaking to hear the recant of all of the efforts towards the restoration and then the violence of the vandalism that occurred. The people who participated in the restoration are regular people; your neighbors. They live in Tacoma and the surrounding neighborhoods and love our outdoors. They are the people who you pass in the grocery store and who you see when you pick up your kids from school. The same people waiting in the hospital to hear their relatives’ fates. Or their own. These people poured their hearts and souls into this project because this is their home.

Someone(s) deliberately smashed in the windows. After smashing in a custom, handcrafted door. The door was not locked. They tore off boards. They threw what was inside down the mountain…
.
.
.
On my way down I talked to a group of four hikers, maybe similar in age to myself or older. I informed them the lookout was closed and they were already aware of the vandalism. One woman then asked if anyone was enforcing no one going to the lookout.
Yes.
And do better.
That question never needed to be asked.
You are part of the problem.
We, as people, need more respect for things that don’t belong to us.
.
.
.
I’m not sharing much of the lookout as I don’t see this as my story to tell - I only share at all to expand its reach. I’m sure you’ve seen the other photos. There will be more.

I’d like to say that I carried a 40 pound pack in addition to my daypack, up High Rock, but I don’t believe the pack I was assigned really weighed 40 pounds. Nevertheless when I walked up to the group of individuals who were also waiting for their pack assignments, it quickly became apparent that I was the only female who signed up. Then on the trail it became apparent my kids were these boys ages. Yep, I was the oldest and by about 20 years 😅.

Am I bragging? A little bit. Because bragging doesn’t need to be conceited; you’re allowed to feel proud. 😏
.
.
.
On a more serious note, it was heartbreaking to see, and even more heartbreaking to hear the recant of all of the efforts towards the restoration and then the violence of the vandalism that occurred. The people who participated in the restoration are regular people; your neighbors. They live in Tacoma and the surrounding neighborhoods and love our outdoors. They are the people who you pass in the grocery store and who you see when you pick up your kids from school. The same people waiting in the hospital to hear their relatives’ fates. Or their own. These people poured their hearts and souls into this project because this is their home.

Someone(s) deliberately smashed in the windows. After smashing in a custom, handcrafted door. The door was not locked. They tore off boards. They threw what was inside down the mountain…
.
.
.
On my way down I talked to a group of four hikers, maybe similar in age to myself or older. I informed them the lookout was closed and they were already aware of the vandalism. One woman then asked if anyone was enforcing no one going to the lookout.
Yes.
And do better.
That question never needed to be asked.
You are part of the problem.
We, as people, need more respect for things that don’t belong to us.
.
.
.
I’m not sharing much of the lookout as I don’t see this as my story to tell - I only share at all to expand its reach. I’m sure you’ve seen the other photos. There will be more.

“Allison, is there anything you don’t like to paint?”

Doors.

I do not want to paint doors 😅. I think every single door in my house was left unfinished.

Experimenting on this one - the interior of the exterior studio door. Look at that shine 🤩

#artstudios #paintingdoors #copperpaint

“Allison, is there anything you don’t like to paint?”

Doors.

I do not want to paint doors 😅. I think every single door in my house was left unfinished.

Experimenting on this one - the interior of the exterior studio door. Look at that shine 🤩

#artstudios #paintingdoors #copperpaint

When we met, you listened. I noticed.

You were so easy to read.
You still are the easiest person to read emotionally.
It’s why I can’t stay mad at you.
Your intent is always good.

You are your own person, not as those around you. And I have watched you grow mentally and emotionally over the time I’ve known you. So. Much. Learning what you’re capable of. Not settling.

Independent, thoughtful, calm and kind.
You pay attention.
In ways I didn’t expect you to.

You stand out in the most quietly humble and beautiful way.

This past year especially. Your patience with me, with caring for Aryah; your help has not been small.

Your love for the dogs…
I have watched and felt you love so hard.
In situations you didn’t ask for.

Before you, I didn’t like surprises, but you have managed to surprise me in the most wonderful ways, over and over.

I could go on.
I will in three weeks 😘.

Thank you, Russell, for being uniquely you, for marching to your own beat, and especially for allowing me to hear your tune. It has certainly grown on me 🥰
.
.
.
Not to mention, today is your birthday 🥳

When we met, you listened. I noticed.

You were so easy to read.
You still are the easiest person to read emotionally.
It’s why I can’t stay mad at you.
Your intent is always good.

You are your own person, not as those around you. And I have watched you grow mentally and emotionally over the time I’ve known you. So. Much. Learning what you’re capable of. Not settling.

Independent, thoughtful, calm and kind.
You pay attention.
In ways I didn’t expect you to.

You stand out in the most quietly humble and beautiful way.

This past year especially. Your patience with me, with caring for Aryah; your help has not been small.

Your love for the dogs…
I have watched and felt you love so hard.
In situations you didn’t ask for.

Before you, I didn’t like surprises, but you have managed to surprise me in the most wonderful ways, over and over.

I could go on.
I will in three weeks 😘.

Thank you, Russell, for being uniquely you, for marching to your own beat, and especially for allowing me to hear your tune. It has certainly grown on me 🥰
.
.
.
Not to mention, today is your birthday 🥳

Passing 2 ladies on the way down:
“We just heard about this husky.”
“Figaro - you have a reputation!”
“A reputation for being a bad ass!!”

10 miles out and back up Mount Townsend. His longest hike to date and he sure was a trooper!

#husky #tripodhusky #rescuepup #badasshusky #threeleggedhiker

Passing 2 ladies on the way down:
“We just heard about this husky.”
“Figaro - you have a reputation!”
“A reputation for being a bad ass!!”

10 miles out and back up Mount Townsend. His longest hike to date and he sure was a trooper!

#husky #tripodhusky #rescuepup #badasshusky #threeleggedhiker

Happy 2 years in our house and 2 years of having a fabulous art studio🥳

How did we celebrate?
By making her even prettier of course.
.
.
.
“I’ll take a before pic right before.”
…I’ll store that thought with lies I tell myself 😂.
Before pics never fully happen.

Soooo imagine the base cabinets matching the uppers in that first pic and you’ll know what this looked like when we moved in. Sort of.

Not complete, we’re installing open shelves in the in betweens. And yes I probably should have painted the walls first but it is what it is.
#priorities

Also, I am absolutely wearing appropriate footwear as I believe flip flops are for any occasion for ME. And no toes were injured.

P.S. Pallet disassembly is 100% relevant, I promise.

Happy 2 years in our house and 2 years of having a fabulous art studio🥳

How did we celebrate?
By making her even prettier of course.
.
.
.
“I’ll take a before pic right before.”
…I’ll store that thought with lies I tell myself 😂.
Before pics never fully happen.

Soooo imagine the base cabinets matching the uppers in that first pic and you’ll know what this looked like when we moved in. Sort of.

Not complete, we’re installing open shelves in the in betweens. And yes I probably should have painted the walls first but it is what it is.
#priorities

Also, I am absolutely wearing appropriate footwear as I believe flip flops are for any occasion for ME. And no toes were injured.

P.S. Pallet disassembly is 100% relevant, I promise.

I want to be a 3 year old in my yard.

I cannot wait until the pond revamp is finished

I want to be a 3 year old in my yard.

I cannot wait until the pond revamp is finished

“You should paint yourself joyful.”
.
.
.
This is not the image that originally came to mind when making the decision to paint myself in joy >>>

“Act like you like each other!!!”
Queue The Russell.

Idk how I expected him to respond, I didn’t have a moment to think about it before he licked me.

And my face couldn’t be more joyful.

That’s Russell.
And that’s us.
Unorthodox.
Status quo thrown out long ago. Before we met.
He makes me laugh like no other.
He makes me smile with my whole self.
He amazes me on how much I couldn’t be happier when he isn’t at all what I pictured.
Just like how a lick on the face while cold plunging was not what I pictured I’d paint to depict joy.
.
.
.
Joy is rarely the most “perfect” image.
It is never the staged one.
It happens in the candid moments.
It comes whether you’re prepared or not.
I rather spend more time living than preparing what I’ll look like when it hits.
I’m so glad it was captured.
.
.
.
P.S. I hope the person who suggested painting myself in joy is finding joy again as well 🩵

“You should paint yourself joyful.”
.
.
.
This is not the image that originally came to mind when making the decision to paint myself in joy >>>

“Act like you like each other!!!”
Queue The Russell.

Idk how I expected him to respond, I didn’t have a moment to think about it before he licked me.

And my face couldn’t be more joyful.

That’s Russell.
And that’s us.
Unorthodox.
Status quo thrown out long ago. Before we met.
He makes me laugh like no other.
He makes me smile with my whole self.
He amazes me on how much I couldn’t be happier when he isn’t at all what I pictured.
Just like how a lick on the face while cold plunging was not what I pictured I’d paint to depict joy.
.
.
.
Joy is rarely the most “perfect” image.
It is never the staged one.
It happens in the candid moments.
It comes whether you’re prepared or not.
I rather spend more time living than preparing what I’ll look like when it hits.
I’m so glad it was captured.
.
.
.
P.S. I hope the person who suggested painting myself in joy is finding joy again as well 🩵

If you missed my zoom last week, two amazing reviews by clients about their experiences and what their portraits mean to them were shared, including what they represent and how they left them feeling.

A painting should stir something within you.
A painted portrait? Even more so.

The recording is on my website for you to watch!

If you want the direct link, please comment “Zoom” below or reach out.

I look forward to you joining me on Zoom again in July! 🎨

If you missed my zoom last week, two amazing reviews by clients about their experiences and what their portraits mean to them were shared, including what they represent and how they left them feeling.

A painting should stir something within you.
A painted portrait? Even more so.

The recording is on my website for you to watch!

If you want the direct link, please comment “Zoom” below or reach out.

I look forward to you joining me on Zoom again in July! 🎨

This Wednesday join me on Zoom! 5pm PST.

We are discussing #portraits #process #studio and more!!

I’d love to see you there and please spread the word. Comment or message for the link.
Any support and sharing is greatly appreciated.

PC: Vanessa Hartmann ❤️

#artistlive #artqandasession

This Wednesday join me on Zoom! 5pm PST.

We are discussing #portraits #process #studio and more!!

I’d love to see you there and please spread the word. Comment or message for the link.
Any support and sharing is greatly appreciated.

PC: Vanessa Hartmann ❤️

#artistlive #artqandasession

In 2020, after an unreasonable gap in painting, I decided to surprise a friend.

I chose a photo of how I remembered her when I lived close - smiling widely, on the water, in her faded Nike hat and sunglasses.

In my mind, this is Lisa. The one who got us out on Monterey Bay all day kayaking with a group of wonderful people; bonfires on the beach and tories told by lovely, irreverent women.

I only lived there 3 years and it wasn’t a lot of time to make deep connections, at least not for me. So those outings may have been more enjoyable for me than she realized.
.
.
.
Around the time I began her portrait I then learned that she had received a cancer diagnosis.

I will never again kayak with that Lisa. Her fight made her stronger, her hair grew back changed, and her beauty has morphed her into a new, equally wonderful version of her.

This portrait, to me, will always be Lisa.
And I may need to paint her again.
.
.
.
Do you have anyone in your life who you think of fondly due to the impact they had on your life?
Maybe they don’t even know?
Someone who you’d love honor in a unique way?

Reach out. Comment “Impact” below and I’ll send you a DM just to get the conversation started.

In 2020, after an unreasonable gap in painting, I decided to surprise a friend.

I chose a photo of how I remembered her when I lived close - smiling widely, on the water, in her faded Nike hat and sunglasses.

In my mind, this is Lisa. The one who got us out on Monterey Bay all day kayaking with a group of wonderful people; bonfires on the beach and tories told by lovely, irreverent women.

I only lived there 3 years and it wasn’t a lot of time to make deep connections, at least not for me. So those outings may have been more enjoyable for me than she realized.
.
.
.
Around the time I began her portrait I then learned that she had received a cancer diagnosis.

I will never again kayak with that Lisa. Her fight made her stronger, her hair grew back changed, and her beauty has morphed her into a new, equally wonderful version of her.

This portrait, to me, will always be Lisa.
And I may need to paint her again.
.
.
.
Do you have anyone in your life who you think of fondly due to the impact they had on your life?
Maybe they don’t even know?
Someone who you’d love honor in a unique way?

Reach out. Comment “Impact” below and I’ll send you a DM just to get the conversation started.

I have never shared this painting before.

I kept its image tucked away as some do with grief.

I don’t see it as complete.

I made it for a college course.
I made the frame, stretched and primed the canvas.

My maternal grandmother had recently passed at the age of 93. I counted, at her funeral, 93 direct descendants.

Aurielle was under 4 months old.
.
.
.

I didn’t know what to paint.
I don’t recall what the project was.
I just started painting.
I remember it being cathartic.
I remember wanting to be alone working on it, coming in outside of class hours.

I couldn’t articulate why I chose the yellow.
My professor asked.
He then said yellow is the color of sadness and grieving.
I was.
And so I painted.

#paintinggrief #yellowformourning #familyportraitpainting #paintingingrief

I have never shared this painting before.

I kept its image tucked away as some do with grief.

I don’t see it as complete.

I made it for a college course.
I made the frame, stretched and primed the canvas.

My maternal grandmother had recently passed at the age of 93. I counted, at her funeral, 93 direct descendants.

Aurielle was under 4 months old.
.
.
.

I didn’t know what to paint.
I don’t recall what the project was.
I just started painting.
I remember it being cathartic.
I remember wanting to be alone working on it, coming in outside of class hours.

I couldn’t articulate why I chose the yellow.
My professor asked.
He then said yellow is the color of sadness and grieving.
I was.
And so I painted.

#paintinggrief #yellowformourning #familyportraitpainting #paintingingrief

I love a good wild lawn and the first mow every year kills me a little bit, chopping down all the bluebells, dandelions and purple nettle, plus other flowers I don’t know by name. But they’ll be back and first I’ll take what I can.

I never did understand the want for “perfect” grass.

#wildflowerlawn #springinthepnw #letitgrow #sunriseheals #barefootinthegrass

I love a good wild lawn and the first mow every year kills me a little bit, chopping down all the bluebells, dandelions and purple nettle, plus other flowers I don’t know by name. But they’ll be back and first I’ll take what I can.

I never did understand the want for “perfect” grass.

#wildflowerlawn #springinthepnw #letitgrow #sunriseheals #barefootinthegrass

Baby E.

Always so pensive.

She was watching out our front door in WI.
Clearing contemplating the world and how all of it is hers.

E was a curious and free child and I am grateful to be able to add my own touch to some candid moments, that to the average lookers on, wouldn’t seem to be much of anything, but to this photo and now painting are etched into me.

I love faces because I love being able to capture emotion. The slightest tilt of an eyebrow or pursing of the lips. The soul of a being and a moment.

Do you have moments you want to make more of?

A photo you wish you could enlarge the emotion of so you could hold onto it that much tighter?

I’d love to be able to make that happen for you.

Want details? Send me a message, or comment EMOTION below.

Baby E.

Always so pensive.

She was watching out our front door in WI.
Clearing contemplating the world and how all of it is hers.

E was a curious and free child and I am grateful to be able to add my own touch to some candid moments, that to the average lookers on, wouldn’t seem to be much of anything, but to this photo and now painting are etched into me.

I love faces because I love being able to capture emotion. The slightest tilt of an eyebrow or pursing of the lips. The soul of a being and a moment.

Do you have moments you want to make more of?

A photo you wish you could enlarge the emotion of so you could hold onto it that much tighter?

I’d love to be able to make that happen for you.

Want details? Send me a message, or comment EMOTION below.

My studio is listed for rent 🥳

Know a creative who needs a quiet space to expand without distractions?

Someone who keeps putting off the play of painting because they don’t have room for it?

Want to be able to set up your easel and leave it until it’s finished?

👇Message me! I have the perfect space and I’d love to be able to share it with you and help meet that need!

#artstudioforrent #rentalspace #artstudio #creativesofinstagram

My studio is listed for rent 🥳

Know a creative who needs a quiet space to expand without distractions?

Someone who keeps putting off the play of painting because they don’t have room for it?

Want to be able to set up your easel and leave it until it’s finished?

👇Message me! I have the perfect space and I’d love to be able to share it with you and help meet that need!

#artstudioforrent #rentalspace #artstudio #creativesofinstagram

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