A brief look back and a long look ahead

photo by Gaby Kosinski

Our phones these days are akin to having a computer in our pocket, and mine is filled with daily photos of the things that I am working on or inspired by. This habit of rapid fire causes many duplicate photos and images that would never end up in a frame. To go through and weed out unwanted photos is a never-ending process, much like cleaning up the email inbox that fills with spam.

Starting this December I took a point-and-shoot camera with me everywhere. In doing so, the photos became more intentional. The library of captures is easier to sort, and photos are more precious. This camera was not full of quick snaps of random moments but full of memories and inspiration.

To apply this perspective to my art is priceless. The 2025 art portfolio likely resembles my phone gallery—filled with miscellaneous snapshots and the rare standout. Do I want my time spent on the random, or should I take the time to find those framable moments? To tell an artist to focus after 9 years of artistic wander? Yes. That is what my spirit hears. If I audit the paintings the way I do photos on my phone, it is easy to see the breadcrumbs God left for me and exactly where to pick up the trail.

A look back I have made some strides in 2025, attaining signature membership with Women in Watercolor and the Northwest Watercolor Society. I have continued to participate in online events with Terracotta Art and attend monthly in-person classes at The Green Art House. International shows have accepted my art, and I have even won a couple of prestigious awards. Early on, these goals seemed unattainable, so I am deeply grateful for these opportunities.

As I look forward, I am praying to follow the road that God has designed for me. My happiest and most fulfilled moments in art have never been through accolades but experiences in nature and with other artists. Art truly is better shared, and I know that God has given me this time to wander to strengthen my skills; now, focusing will allow me to see where this humble path will lead.

Here are five favorite demo paintings from 2025, when emotion connected with the subject, and the pigments and paper seemed to paint themselves. Thank you for being a part of the journey. Happy New Year!