Navigating A Gentle Return

Susie Zol
Jun 20, 2023
2 min read

Hello You!

I can see by my calendar that I've missed a few dates when I thought I'd be saying hello and updating you on my latest creations.

I've been busy with life and all the "stuff" that comes with it. Nothing stands out as something to worry about or fix and I'm returning to all the creative pursuits I enjoy.

Just to say that self-care is real and important to your overall well-being. Listen to your body, mind and soul when they whisper to you. Take the time you need to rest, recover and reset. Over time you'll learn to appreciate your ability to navigate a gentle return.

When I was ready to return to my art practice, I was inspired to look at some of my art journals and the pages I created at workshops and on my own years ago. I wanted to create some new pieces that held the emotional energy of those early art days combined with the joy and gratitude I have in my life now. Another moment of inspiration came when I took an online workshop with Jeanne Oliver titled "Cut & Paste". You know I've loved using both paper and fabric in my art for years and with this workshop, I was learning to use them in new ways.

Here's a sneak peek (only for my subscribers) of the collage pieces I created. These are each 12"x12" on cradled wood panel and will be sold with a black floating frame. I've priced each one at $225 and will feature them at my next art festival, this Sunday the 25th. You can click on any image to zoom in.

I know that last one with the yellow chair isn't a collage but it's creation flowed through me so quickly and easily I had to include it as part of this series.

That's new for me...

accepting that the time I'm spending creating isn't just about the finished pieces. It's about what's happening inside me as I let go and allow my creative spirit to move freely, and it's about accepting what is created without restrictions or rules. It's not for me to say it doesn't belong because it isn't a collage. I was creating and the flow of creative energy expressed itself as a painted chair (with a cat!) so it's part of this series.

If you're interested in one of these pieces, come by the show on Sunday to see them in person or let me know via email or DM on Instagram. I won't be uploading them to my website until after the show on Sunday... speaking of which...