From Tragedy to Triumph: Finding My Path Back to Art
Hello, dear readers!
As I sit here and reflect, I realize how much has happened since that fateful day on December 22, 2022, when an arsonist actions destroyed my beloved studio. The loss felt paralyzing, and after sharing that painful moment with you all, I unintentionally fell into silence. Time swept by, and before I knew it, I was celebrating a new milestone—my first commission of 2025. But in between these two bookends are the stories of recovery, of rediscovery, and of life unexpectedly steering me toward new horizons.
A Canvas of Possibilities
In the months following the fire, I found myself lost. Starting from scratch felt daunting, like standing on the edge of a vast unknown. Then came a day in May 2023, when I accidentally stumbled upon a forgotten painting I had created in 2005! It was tucked away in an upstairs hallway closet. It was an Italian landscape, and though I had never been to Italy, I felt an inexplicable connection with it. I brought it downstairs and hung it on a random nail already in the wall. Hanging it in my living room brought a glimpse of color back into my monochromatic thoughts.
A Serendipitous Call of Hope
Just as I was lost in the beauty of that painting, sitting in my chair and staring at it, the phone rang. It was Melissa Young. I knew her as Dr Melissa Young. She is a doctor turned budding artist whose own journey had been marred by loss during Hurricane Harvey. She was someone I hadn’t spoken with in years, and she called with an unexpected invitation—to assist her in teaching an art class in Italy at La Romita School of Art. What?!? Are you kidding me? Is this a joke? How was this happening? In a moment that felt divinely orchestrated, the universe had handed me a lifeline. Despite the hurdles, from obtaining a passport to overcoming the grip of self-doubt, I said yes!
Transforming in the Umbrian Landscape
Italy was everything I didn’t know I needed. Being in the heart of such inspiring surroundings rekindled my passion for art. While still finding my footing emotionally, I began to write out my imaginary dream workshop if I was ever so blessed to teach there. Planning this hypothetical workshop proved to be the creative spark I needed, penned hastily on cocktail napkins on my ten hour flight home.
An Invitation Realized
The magic didn’t end there. Two weeks after returning home, I received an email that felt like a second chance—an invitation to teach my very own workshop at La Romita in June 2025! My inspiration flooded back, and I found myself eagerly piecing together my teaching plans, an endeavor that rejuvenated my artistic spirit and my confidence.
Finding Light in Loss
Reflecting on this journey, I realize that in our darkest moments, there is always a flicker of light guiding us toward growth and opportunity. Losing my studio felt like an insurmountable tragedy, but it nudged me onto a path I might never have discovered otherwise. The thought of a closed door opening to a new beginning brings me profound comfort.
As I prepare for my workshop, I look forward to sharing more tales from my transformative time in Italy and the vibrant plans I have for the future. If you find yourself ensnared in uncertainty, I hope my story serves as a beacon of hope. Remember, life has a way of turning the unexpected into something beautifully transformative. Trust the process, embrace the journey, and know that the universe often has plans for us beyond our wildest dreams.
Are you ready for a truly transformative adventure in Italy?