Shenanigans.

Shenanigans is such a great word, isn’t it? “Silly or high-spirited behavior”.

Being an artist is not just about making art. For me, it is about living in a way that feeds my creative mind, quickens my heart, and leads to high-spirited behavior. I have collected some of my shenanigans here (in no particular order) to encourage this behavior as much as possible.

Rochester Art Supply, Rochester, NY
All the time

I am very lucky to have one of those old-school art supply stores in my hometown. You know, the kind that is packed from floor to ceiling with every kind of art supply you could ever want. I don’t know how to use most of them, but I want them all. This is my happy place.

Icon 12 Illustration Conference, Minneapolis, MN
July 9 - 13, 2024

In July I traveled to Minneapolis, Minnesota to attend a national gathering of illustrators. It was 4 wonderful days of being immersed in the illustration world. I attended workshops and listened to presentations by seriously talented people. Most importantly, I sat and talked, had breakfast with, rode the elevator with an endless amount of inspiring illustrators. I was worried that it would be intimidating but it was anything but. This was a group of supportive and inspiring fellow artists who were full of advice. I can hardly wait for the next one in two years!

Stay Colorfully Creative Retreat at The Smiley Manse, Springfield, Vt.
September 27-Oct 1, 2023

In September I spent four fantastic days at my first-ever artist retreat in Springfield, Vt. Hosted by the wonderful Jennifer Nelson and taught by the equally wonderful Salli Swindell. It was the first time I had ever done something like this just for myself and my creative life. It was magical. 20+ women in a barn full of art supplies, telling stories, trying new things, learning from each other. It was inspiring, restorative and only a little bit wet. I highly recommend this type of creative adventure. Visit the smiley manse website for a list of upcoming retreats.