Fresh Canvas

This morning, I laid out my first commission for 2026, a large painting, 20x30. I carefully taped the edges, checked for the watermark, laid out my new paints and supplies, and looked at the blank canvas.

I've been thinking about how to approach this project, made sketches, and even a few practice paintings to get the feel of the work. A blank canvas can be daunting. I've found that if I think too deeply about the details before I begin, I often get a creative block. Today I decided to start, mix my blues, and make a mark. I poured water on the paper and let the flow guide my way, as with the year, one step at a time. I know what I want to achieve in the painting, colors, forms, and the intended feeling, but I know that the painting will emerge as I layer the color and allow the paint and water to settle.  I am approaching 2026 in a new way, with frameworks that give me choices and flexibility, and defined goals loaded with possibilities I have not yet realized.

I don't have all the steps mapped out for the year, but I know that art is at the center of everything I do; it is the life force of my year. I spent significant time last year revising, rooting out, clearing, and simplifying.

This year, the canvas is blank, ready for me to add color and form each day.