Today I’m spending time with some of my very favorite things… and it feels so good.
I had this little pull to create some small abstract collage studies—nothing big or finished, just a series of pieces to explore and gently see where they might lead. Sometimes I just need to start small, to let the ideas whisper instead of shout.
I also found myself craving certain patterned papers, reaching for a mix of new stencils and some well-loved favorites. There’s something comforting about that blend of old and new… like revisiting a familiar place while still allowing room for surprise.
Lately, I’ve noticed that most of my time is spent experimenting rather than finishing—and honestly, that feels right. I truly believe this is part of my work as an artist. Experimenting is where the learning happens, where growth sneaks in, and where new ideas begin to take shape.
It’s also where I get to just be. To express emotion without overthinking. To follow the silly ideas. To find those quiet pockets of calm and softness that I didn’t even know I needed.
And something I shared in today’s video has been sitting with me…
“The best age is…? Alive.”
Isn’t that the truth?
Today is the day to do the things that light you up. To say the words, give the hugs, ask the question, and yes… to play. Because today is what we have. Tomorrow is unknown, and that makes today all the more meaningful.
I hope this video gently nudges you to play a little… to explore without pressure… and to celebrate where you are, just as you are.
And always, always remember… you are loved.
Supplies mentioned in this video:
- Collage paper
- Acrylic matte house paint in a variety of colors
- Liquitex gesso black and white
- Napkins
- medical exam paper
- Copy paper
- Packing paper
- Vintage book pages
- Art Journal (Layflat sketchbook, Grumbacher mixed media in & out journal 5×8)
- Liquitex matte medium & Liquitex matte gel
- Soft pastel sticks (Mungyo soft pastels stick set, Soho urban artist soft pastels)
- Generals charcoal pencil (ex. soft)
- 3″ roller and tub
- Makeup sponge
- 1″flat brush
- Scott blue shop towels
Stencils used: These will be on sale this week
- Peony Flowers with masks 8×10
- Carved Numbers 8×10
- Numbers Tech small 8×10
- Spirals 8×10
- Floral Vine 8×10
- Zig Zag 8×10
- Floral Corner 1 8×10
- Mediterranean 1 8×10
- Tribal Elements Duo 8×10
- Loop Holes 8×10
- Collage Fodder Swirls with masks 9×12
- Collage Fodder Circles large mask 8×10
- Doodle Minis Circles mask 8×10
- Letting Go mask 8×10







