"I Am Here" 2009
Colorado Springs, Colorado
As we unpacked and got settled into our new apartment I set the intention that in 2009 I would make more time to paint. Not knowing anyone but each other, and no longer having a house and a yard to maintain, I would have more time to dedicate to my creative expression. I think back to my younger self just 11 months ago and I smile as I reflect on the fact that I had no idea what was in store for me when I got here!
Colorado is an adventurous state with many of its residents being avid outdoor types. But navigating the Denver art scene is an adventure in itself! And I have only just begun to scratch the proverbial surface of artists to meet and galleries and museums to explore. Michigan has its renowned Detroit Institute of Art museum and metro-Detroit is peppered with the occasional art gallery. But there is nothing comparable to the Sante Fe and Rino art districts. Imagine my joy as I began to learn what a vibrant art community Denver has!
I’ve been painting on and off my entire life, but it wasn’t until I moved to Denver that I had the opportunity to start showing my work. If you would have told me a year ago that I’d spend 2009 participating in multiple group art shows and that I’d close the year with a two month solo art exhibit I wouldn’t have believed you. I had no frame of reference from where I came from that the experiences I’ve had this year were possible.
As 2010 approaches I am excited with anxious anticipation for what the New Year has in store. So much so that sometimes it’s hard to live in the moment. There is so much I want to do, to see, to experience that I feel this sense of urgency. I want to do it all and I want to do it now! I’m almost overwhelmed with the choices and paths that lay before me. I could pursue so many different avenues, and while each one would be different, they would each be an adventure I would never forget.
While 2009 has been the best year of my life, I am confident that 2010 will be even better. But I have to remember that I’m here, in this moment, and that it’s really all I have. Yesterday is over and I don’t know what tomorrow will bring. But I’m here – living, learning, and loving everything I can about life.
