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BANAGO

Gorgeous hand-woven accessories from BANAGO crafted in the Pacific Islands. The colors and patterns are so lovely!

Creative Tip of the Week: Keep Going

A week ago I had the honor to present a talk to the creative studio at Hallmark Cards. The opportunity still has me pinching myself and playing back all the sparkly moments during my time there.

Everyday, I am grateful for these experiences, these doors that open unexpectedly, and these points on the path that expand my vision and dream.

But I do want to share that my creative path has not been easy, or a seamless line of never-ending yeses (read more in other Creative Tips or here). For every yes there are a ton of noes, which many people don't get to see or hear about.

I have a vision for my life and a dream list of things that I would like to achieve, especially in my career as an artist and educator. In the last decade I've written various proposals for projects, books, and events. Connected, networked, and linked up with a lot of folks to discuss opportunities. Brands and organizations have also reached out in regards to cool collaborations that sound really fun and promising. This is always happening, which I'm so thankful for, but most times the answer has been no, the project cancelled, or a collaboration is put on hold indefinitely. Which often brings disappointment, especially when it seems this thing just might happen.

I try not to dwell in the space of disappointment, instead I try to remember that everything happens, or doesn't, for a reason and that what is for me is for me. We need the noes to appreciate the yeses, but what I appreciate most is that the yeses are often there to tell us to keep going.

Keep going.

Because when you believe in something so strongly and know with every corner of your soul and every molecule of your body that this is what you should be doing then to keep going is the only option.

In the last year there have been quite a few noes, but peppered with some really amazing yeses. The Hallmark talk was definitely a moment for me to reflect and remember that I love what I do and need to always keep going.

Have you ever had a moment whether you questioned the direction of your dream? Thought about stopping? Heard too many noes, or had a great yes? Please share!!

New Drawings for Sale

I just added these new works to the Etsy shop (some of which are already sold). Each one is an original drawing inspired by graphic patterns, black counterculture, and these hair portraits by Awol Erizku. See them all here.

Matter

Miss Moss shared some images from Matter a little while ago and I've kept it bookmarked to eventually purchase the pink ones (so cute!) and to share with you.

neonvintage

Loving these bold, bright and funky pillows and cushions (and other goods) from neonvintage.

Baubles from Sew A Song

These gorgeous hand-crafted necklaces from Sew A Song are made of various materials like wood, brass, onyx and stone. I love that they are so textural and elegant.

Fanm Mom

I'm determined to get some patterned shoes for fall, but with so many options it is really difficult to choose. Like these from Fanm Mom.