Pushing through Self-Doubt
Maybe I’ve been tip-toeing a little bit around the real message these past few weeks. I’ve written about connection and community. I’ve written about empowering choices and showing up. I say that I may be tip-toeing because as 2025 winds down, I’m seeing more truth in the idea that writers write what they need to read. My newsletters, and even more so my painting, are the art that I need. Have they resonated with you?
This year has had more than its fair share of highs and lows. I’ve done a lot of reflecting and a lot of doubting. And, in between, I’ve done the often less visible work of changing my beliefs to make way for my needs and my happiness. (If you haven't tried coaching, put that on the top of your 2025 to-do list! Everything else will follow.)
The art in my show at the Burl and elsewhere around town has a different quality to it than what I was producing at this time last year. I’ve grown technically and deepened my understanding of design, value, and color. (Shout out to Nicholas Wilton's Creative Visionary Program! Another must-try in 2025 if you make art.) Along with working through my moments of self-doubt, I’ve also had to learn not to take myself too seriously and to celebrate all the wins. I’m still learning these things and likely will be for a long-ass time.
So, as the year wraps up, check out my art to see more of how I’ve changed and am changing:
Find messages of affirmation in my mini paintings at the Burl Gallery in downtown St. Paul.
Find my notecards and matted prints at the Holiday on Nicollet Show in downtown Minneapolis.
Take a hot yoga class or stop for a coffee at Mov Yoga & Market in Uptown and see my original work or purchase my notecards and prints.
Check out my website for original works that were supercharged by what I learned in the art course linked above.
Last but not least, join my pop-up art show facebook group to give gifts that tell the story of a woman owning her life despite doubt, despite being conditioned to do the opposite.
Let me know what you’re thinking about as this year winds down. What are some of the “things” in 2024 that stand out to you? What do you need reinforced or reflected back to you in a way that only writing and visual arts can provide? Don’t forget that art is as essential to our well-being as growth.
I’ll see you at the any of Twin Cities locations listed above or in cyber-space at my Holiday Facebook Art Show. And, I’m always online at amyvaughnstudio.com.