Advent
Another year has almost flicked by and I’m now reflecting on an amazing year that’s been both fulfilling and enriching. Honestly, as I grow, the years speed up. I’m sure I can’t pack anymore stuff into the year. Physically and mentally, I just couldn’t!
2024 was essentially, a time for building confidence with myself as an artist about to embark on a Masters in Fine Art. All the preparations and visits to and from Aberystwyth University was worth all the hard work I put into making this 18 year goal a realisation. I’m already thinking about my future aspirations after graduating, but know that the reigns have to be pulled in! I’ve also enjoyed observing the emotional and academic growth of my two daughters since they began their new secondary school at the beginning of the year. I’m in awe of their tenacity and love of their subjects. They’re also brilliantly fluent in Welsh too! More on my own learning of this beautiful Celtic language later. It’s also been a great year for connecting with other artists in my local community too, and I’m lucky to have met some great people I count as good friends.
We’re two days away from Christmas Day, and in our non-religious household, my family and I enjoy the celebrations very modestly. Because of our strong ethics on mass consumption, there will be few gifts which are thoughtfully bought. I’ve requested a simple handmade gift or card, and possibly, a rescue plant. Unfortunately consumerism has been infectious, especially when I lived in the US. It’s only when I started to realise the detrimental effects on the environment it had and not to mention on my mental health it was having. My personal quest to priority spend only, and buy in thrift/charity shops where ever possible. This ethos and shift in lifestyle change became ingrained into my mindset. Instead, if finances allow, I will treat myself with a plant or something else for the living environment around me. It’s my way of recognising my own failures, and returning what I’ve taken from Earth’s valuable resources in my previous life.
I’m excited for another year of giving back to the Earth, and more gardening escapades and studio work in 2025.
