The show is not what I originally had planned. I signed up to do it early last fall when I was feeling really good about my life, like I had the energy to execute my vision. I had solid recent works I was proud of and ideas for five new pieces in my head.
Then things got super messy again and I was in survival mode from the end of 2018 through the summer of 2019.
You know what happens when you're in survival mode? Not much. So there I was, two months out and only two of the new works done beyond sketch stage. After much panicked contemplation, I came to the realization that I would need to show older works to fill the show. When I finally accepted this idea, the show clicked into place. It could still be what I had envisioned, but it would need to be a journey story instead of a destination celebration (if there really is such a thing).
I knew it was what needed to happen, but getting the perfectionist control freak in me to be okay with that was a huge struggle. It was crazy scary.

I've never considered myself a courageous person because I know what's going on inside my head and body while I'm doing things that might appear brave to others. I'm a hot mess. But after reading this quote from Brene Brown I have to say that allowing this show to happen the way it needed to was a courageous thing to do, because this show was my whole naked heart hanging in a gallery.

I'm full of gratitude for the soul healing conversations and experiences sharing my art and story have brought. I'm so grateful if this has helped even one person feel less alone, less crazy, less like a freak.

Thank you so much to all who participated, to those who purchased pieces, or helped with the show in any way. My heart is full.