Hello, dear friends and art enthusiasts!
I hope this message finds you well and thriving in the fresh energy of the new year.
It's been a while since I last connected with you, and I wanted to share a bit about what's been happening during my hiatus.
Life has an interesting way of reminding us to hit the pause button, take a step back, and savor the richness it has to offer.
Over the past months, I found myself on a much-needed break from the digital whirlwind that can sometimes consume us. Why, you might ask?
Well, it turns out that in the pursuit of my passion for art and design, I had inadvertently let the pendulum swing too far, neglecting the equally important aspects of social connections and exploration.
Upon returning to Asia a year ago, I faced the delightful challenge of rebuilding my social circle. It was a humbling experience that taught me the importance of fostering friendships, both old and new.
I began investing more time in enjoying the sun-soaked beaches, savoring the flavors of local cuisines, and, most importantly, nurturing meaningful connections with fantastic new friends.
In the past year, I had seven short trips that became miniature adventures, each contributing to a wellspring of inspiration that fuels my creative endeavors. The sights, sounds, and experiences have added a vibrant touch to my art, and I can't wait to share the results with you.
Travel Highlights of 2023
Solo Exploration: I embarked on two solo trips, relishing the freedom to go wherever I pleased and meet new people along the way. The experience was truly amazing, filled with the joy of uninhibited exploration.
Island Escapades: Venturing to stunning islands with breathtaking ocean views, I immersed myself in the beauty of underwater life—snorkeling with mantas, giant turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. It all became a source of my creative recharge, infusing my spirit with fresh inspiration for my new collections.
Volcanic Challenge: Conquering Indonesia's second-highest volcano was no easy feat. A strenuous trek, including a two-hour climb in the dark to the campsite, was rewarded with awe-inspiring views that made the journey worthwhile.
Ziplining Thrills: Trying a zipline over the picturesque Blue Lagoon, surrounded by turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs, was a cool and surprisingly unscary experience. The views were as breathtaking as the adrenaline rush.
Group Fun: Joining a trip with a group of friends was a blast. Exploring new places together allowed us not only to discover exciting destinations but also to share our emotions and create lasting memories.
Elevating Artistry
As a little gift to myself and my art, I welcomed an iPad Pro into my creative toolkit. This addition allows me to infuse a more hand-drawn look and texture into my designs, adding a new dimension to my artistic expression.
It's been an exciting journey of experimentation, tweaking my workflow, and honing a fresh style that I'm eager to share with you.
So, what's next, you may wonder?
With the holidays now behind us, I'm gearing up to unveil new collections that encapsulate the spirit of my adventures, the beauty of the nature, and the joy of embracing change.
Thank you for your patience and continued support.
I can't wait to showcase the art that has been brewing during this rejuvenating break.
After all, it's in these moments of rest, rediscovery and creative recharge that we find the strength to create something truly extraordinary.
Wishing you a joyful 2024 filled with warmth, inspiration, and the company of cherished friends and family.
Stay creative and stay tuned!