I had an ‘aha’ recently after talking with artists in our Artist’s Journey group. We’d been discussing painting for yourself, finding what you love, searching and finding your way, exploring and experimenting.
[Note: I have a video for you at the bottom of this post].
I saw that each artist was stretching and risking and wanting to take their work to the next level.
And I was thinking-
If I had to give them a piece of advice about the one thing in abstract art, the most important thing to access in order to accelerate your growth as an artist- what would it be?
My first thought was that it’s about trusting and believing in yourself as an artist and I do think this is crucial.
And I also thought about the importance of working on miles of canvas, of creating as often as possible (ideally every day) or at least developing a consistent studio practice….10,000 hours and all that
Experimentation
But then I realized that it boils down to experimentation.
It’s the willingness to step into the terra incognita– the unknown territory.
This is where discoveries happen. This is where the surprises are. This is where new work emerges.
Stepping into the unknown is how we evolve our art.
Trust & Experimentation
Experimentation is intimately related to trust. You’ve got to trust yourself enough to take risks, to not know what’s going to happen and to allow for the unfamiliar, even the so called “ugly paintings” to emerge.
Indeed, the “ugly paintings” are vital for your evolution as an artist. I believe that they are the nascent, embryonic forms trying to be born in your art.
Painting Consistently
We know that painting consistently makes a huge difference for artists.
As you create many painting starts, you begin to see that no one particular painting is precious. This gives you tremendous permission and freedom to explore and experiment.
What we’re talking about is the mindset of allowing yourself to step into the unknown, to search and find your way as you paint, and to deeply explore and experiment.
It’s in the state of experimentation that you’ll search (and this word is really important!) and find your way as you paint.
We can feel you searching and accessing a state of not knowing inherent to the search and this is exciting, alive and mysterious.
It’s unpredictable.
Experimentation sets the stage for surprise and it sets the stage for your deepest work.
One of my favorite things I’ve ever read is when artist Michael Cutlip said:
If I already know what’s going to happen, it’s all over.
-Michael Cutlip
That says it all for me and this is what my new book The Artist’s Journey is about- the inner journey of stepping into the unknown.
Big Surprise
In my last post, I showed you the book manuscript and invited you to join my book launch. I’m so excited that so many of you want to join me on the launch team.
I’ve got a big surprise in the video below.
With gratitude from my studio to yours,
Nancy
P.S. Leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Since writing this post, I now have 4 books!
NOW is the perfect time to create.
This is the existential moment- this is the time where we see what our life is about. We notice what is meaningful and alive for us.
You might be thinking…I’m just too blocked, too down, too scared or frozen….or even just shy….
You may be feeling that you can’t create now….
But I say to you that you’re a creator…you’re an artist and artists create.
And there are many ways to create and be creative….
Pair your explorations in your art studio with our Art of the Possible Book Series!
The Art of the Possible Book Series
QR Code- The Art Of The Possible Series
Yes put me on the launch team please!
Hi Barbara! Fantastic!!! I’ll email you in a moment. Big hugs, Nancy
Wonderful Barbara! Thank you!! Nancy
Hi Nancy, I cannot express the amount of gratitude I feel in finding you while browsing abstract painting on Pinterest! I have been a serious painter since my teen years, I’m almost 64 yrs old now. I have had some life changing events happen in my life in the past 5 years that put a halt to me painting for a couple years. Fear plays a big part in it. And now I am back In the studio but i am so completely bored with my old neo-impressionistic work. I’ve wanted to move into abstract work for some time and have not known how to take the plunge. I think you have just enlightened me. Thank you.
Hi Barbara,
Wonderful!!! This is so exciting!!! I remember when I felt the same way about my impressionistic landscapes- I was ready for abstract work too! Thank you so much for writing and I’m so thrilled for you. Warmly, Nancy
Nancy, I just left you a message but I forgot to tell you my response to your ‘Carpe Diem”. The first page in a new sketch book I start says “Carpe EVERY Diem.” Also, the longer I paint, the less I put on the canvas (or paper). So looking forward to your book!
Monita
Monita, I love that title of your sketch book! I know what you mean about less paint…I’ve experienced that too. Thank you so much for your kind words about the book!
Nancy
I am looking forward to your book. It sounds like it will be such a learning tool, in addition to a wonderful, exciting way to ride this wonderful “Journey” to making our personal art! I always seem to make my best work when I don’t have time to think about it and just let go and do it! I would consider it a pleasure to be on your launch team and share the information with all my art groups. Thanks – can’t wait to read it!
Monita
Hi Monita! Yes- astonishing art seems to be in the place where we’re not trying so hard, not overthinking it. Thank you for being here on the journey and for being on the book launch team!!!! It’s so exciting!!!!
Warmly,
Nancy
Hi Nancy,
I too would love to be on your launch team. You have inspired me to “grow wings” and take the huge leap into the terra incognito. I am ready to learn how to fly!
Hi Debra!
Oh dear! I’m just now seeing your note. I’ve been swamped with emails and I missed yours. I’d love to have you on the launch team! We’re continuing to spread news about the book every day! Thank you so much Debra! I’ll contact you in a moment. Warmly, Nancy
I’m an artist, I’ve been struggling over the past few years and so I would love to be on the launch team and to leave a thoughtful review. I don’t know if it’s too late to consider me!
Hi Melissa,
Thank you so much for reaching out to me. I’d love to have you on the launch team! I’ll add you to the team. Be on the lookout for my email. Thank you again.
Warmly,
Nancy
I’m looking forward to reading your book Nancy. I’ve just made my first mind map, half my life is full of sadness and loss, but the other half is faithful and joyous, I can see this in my paintings now in hindsight, and im at the brink of the unknown once again and can’t wait to see what happens this time, and hopefully learn.
Thank you so much dear Dawn.
It’s a powerful thing to allow ourselves this reflection time- of working and writing in our journal, of drawing out mind maps, of reflecting on all that we’ve experienced. I can imagine that you see this contrast between early loss and later faithfulness and joyousness in your work.
Art is a mirror- it mirrors our lives- all of it. The wondrous and the treacherous.
I sense so much heart and willingness in you to stay open, to step into the unknown again and again, to step into the mystery- and do the the work of your life, Dawn. And it’s never-ending.. .we’re continually stepping into the unknown, embracing uncertainty _and that’s a good thing I think.
I’m so inspired by you.
Warmly,
Nancy
i am very excited about the workshops, the first one was very helpful to me. i would like to be part of the launch of the book if possible.
very glad to be a part of this process.
Thank you so much Chinue! I’m delighted to hear that the workshop was helpful to you. Wonderful! I’d love to have you on the launch team! I’ll be in contact soon!
Warmly,
Nancy
Hi Nancy,
My apologies, but I have only just heard about your launch team, i hope I am not too late. As a fellow Artist Journeyer and most recent Studio Journeyer I would be delighted to spread the word about your book. In your courses you have addressed all of my concerns and more. I posted about the prison break in the Facebook group, I have literally been set free!
Cheers,
Carolyn
Hi Carolyn,
Wow! I absolutely love your expression about the “prison break”! This is the kind of liberation I live for! I’m absolutely delighted for you Carolyn. Oh I would love for you to be on the launch team! Yay! We’ll get started soon!
Warmly,
Nancy
I would be happy to be part of the Launch Team…It would be an honor to spread the word about your work.
Thank you so much Ann! I deeply appreciate it. Wonderful! I’ll be in contact soon as we get started. Warmly, Nancy
Thank you so much Ann for your sweet words! I’m so excited about the launch.
Hi Nancy,
what a refreshing delight it was finding you on Pinterest. I too, am an abstract painter and currently live and paint out of my studio in the Natal region of South Africa. (I am American by birth but have lived here on and off for over 25 years) I’ve been painting for over 30 years now and yet I still battle with ‘letting go’ and simply allowing for the voice within and the substrate I am facing to co-mingle. Your work resonates deeply with me and even though my studio is quite solitary- sitting above the treetops on the Indian Ocean- I am encouraged that I can feel connected to you and other abstract painters from around the world. I will look forward to journeying with you and finding new ways to experiment with my work. A huge thank you for how gracious you are with these videos. Lori
Hi Lori,
Thank you so much for your kind and warm note Lori. Wow! The Indian Ocean! Your studio and the view sounds lovely. Yes- allowing for the voice within to express itself unfettered is a big one isn’t it? I look forward to journeying with you too. Thank you. your note brightened my day. Warmly, Nancy
Dear Nancy,
You certainly aren’t lacking in launch participants. I, too, would like to be part of it and can’t wait to order a copy, as well as thinking of friends who would like one. I love your enthusiasm and wisdom, as well as your commitment to helping other artists find their authentic work. I have loved the Artists Journey and I’m eager to get back to the bundles TOMORROW! I’m so done with moving and having family visit and ready to get back in my new studio space, before going back to Arkansas for winter/ spring. I feel like I’ve forgotten everything! So I will appreciate your bundles of encouragement to get started!
Thanks for all your hard work and creative ideas! And CONGRATULATIONS and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Ann
Dear Janis,
Thank you so much for your wonderful and kind words. Yes! I’d love to have you on the book launch and I’ll add you in. We’ll start soon. I’ll be sending out an email.
I love what you wrote about the hummingbird and life. I looked out my studio window yesterday and there, hovering around the orange tree, was a multicolored, shimmering hummingbird! It made me smile. It’s a reminder of the beauty and the mystery of this existence.
Much love to you too, always.
Love,
Nancy
Dear Ann,
Ha! Yes! I’m overjoyed with the response of artists to be on the launch team. Yay! I think it will be lots of fun. This is all new to me so I need all the help I can get!
I love having you in the Artist’s Journey and on the journey in general. I just got back from Arkansas for the holidays. It’s cool that we have that in common. No worries about forgetting everything- it will all come back and more! Just trust that it’s all there inside of you dear Ann.
Thank you again and I’ll see you on the launch team as well as on the journey.
Happy New Year to you too!
Big hugs,
Nancy
Dear Nancy, I see this launch as a positive stride forward fo you coupled with the idea of developing growing artists. Please consider me for your launch. I’m excited for you and also acquiring a copy of your insightful book.
Thanks and I look forward to being part of your launch. ….from Otterville, Ontario Canada ??
Dear Shirley,
Wonderful! Thank you so much. I’m delighted that you’ll be part of the launch team! I’ll be in touch soon. I’m so excited and I deeply appreciate your kind words Shirley.
Warmly,
Nancy
Nancy, I would love to be part of your launch team. In fact, I produce and host the podcast called “The Artist’s Voice” and would like to interview you for an episode. Please intact me if interested.
Jerry,
Thank you so much! I’d love to have you on the book launch team! Yes! I’d love to be interviewed on your podcast as well! Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy,
Just now becoming acquainted with your work through the 3 part video series. I would really like to be on your launch team!
Thanks so much,
Penny M.
Hi Penny,
Thank you so much! I’d love to have you on the book launch team! I’ll be in touch soon. Warmly, Nancy
The timing of your book launch runs in parallel with my own goal to launch a sustained art practice and business in 2019. The past few years, I’ve been honing techniques with online classes while trying to develop my own unique style. Your emphasis on experimentation has helped me get out of my own way when I get lost! I’d enjoy serving on your book launch team! Congratulations on a successful journey to publication! Warmly, Pat
I’ve come late to this party, but I wonder if I could be part of the launch team. I’ve been experimenting for the past year and what you say about trust and failure and ugly paintings resonates with me as I move into abstraction.
Hi Anne,
Wonderful! I’d love to have you on the launch team! I’ll be in touch soon. Warmly, Nancy
I too would like to be part of the launch, if not too late. I have felt “surprise” at the completion of a piece and wondered if others feel the same. Thank you for expressing it. I look forward to reading “Artist’s Journey”.
Hi Dolores,
Wonderful! Thank you so much. I’m delighted that you’ll be on the launch team. Yes- it’s a wondrous thing to feel surprised and astonished by a piece. Warmly, Nancy
If it’s not too late I would love to be included in the launch team. I can write a review post on UntrainedHousewife.com and share some of how art has saved my sanity during our recovery from health crisis/house flooding the last two years. Thank you for your wonderful blog – I just discovered it and am about twenty posts in. Beautiful. It’s exactly what I needed right now.
Wow! Thank you so much Angela! I would love for you to write a review post on your site as well as sharing your experience about art. I’d love to have you on the launch team! Thank you! Warmly, Nancy
Wonderful Dawn! I’m so excited that you’re here and that you’re ready to step into the unknown.
Im ready to step into the unknown, really happy to have come on this journey , thanks Nancy
Congrats on the book! I would be interested to be on your launch team. Exciting!
Thank you so much Angeline! I’d love to have you on the launch team! Warmly, Nancy
Dear Nancy,
I want to be on your launch team. This year has been seriously meaningful since I joined “the Journey”. My home is filled with starts and “uglies” which I am very proud of and your encouragement through videos and demos has caused me to repeatedly refresh my way of expressing my art. Your book looks wonderful and will be a companion to my journal (which is part in my mind and part on paper). Congratulations on your publication.
Dear Robin,
Wonderful! Thank you so much. I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team! I’m honored that this year on the journey has been so meaningful to you. I love what you wrote about how this practice of creating starts and “uglies” has refreshed your way of expressing your art. I got a smile when you wrote that your journal is partly in your mind and partly on paper. I totally resonate with that! Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations, Nancy!
Yes, let me know how I can help you launch this exciting new book!
Love,
Margo
Thank you Margo! Fantastic! I’ll add you onto the launch team. I’ll be in touch soon! Love, Nancy
dear Nancy,
I am so proud of you and of the artists that were on the journey with you this past year. My year with you and the others was powerfully helpful, because, although i have already been painting for many years, this past year , my husband was seriously ill and subsequently passed away a few weeks ago. The art that I did with you almost every day, and every day was experimenting, mostly in a journal, It helped me to be with myself inside of myself, and also with my husband and his illness. I thank you tremendously, and wish you the most positive good wishes with your book. You are an amazing person and I am blessed to have come across you and your work. much love, Diane
Dear Diane,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart- for your kind words and for being the amazing person that you are. You bring a tremendous quality of soul and light to this journey. It has been deeply meaningful to me to witness your deep work and your experimentation as you faced the dark nights of the soul on this journey through your dear husband’s illness and passing away. When I think of you with your radiant face and eyes, it makes me smile. I’m so heartened to know that you are in this world. Thank you for being on this journey with me. Much love to you, Nancy
I would love to be part of your launch team Nancy! Thank you for the amazing concepts, and process you have shared with us on your blog during the last year. It is helping me to be couragous and excited when I stand before my canvas.
Thank you so much Toria! That’s great that you feel excitement and courage in n front of your canvas! Thank you! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team!
Congratulations Nancy! I imagine birthing a book is like birthing a painting, so many of the same creative stages to go through. Wishing you all the best success with this new venture.
Thank you so much Susan! Yes, indeed, it’s a similar journey as creating paintings- filled with challenges, perils, elation and everything in between. Thank you for your kind support Susan.
Nancy, This is great!!!
I love the way you do your art. As Kandinsky said many years ago, this is the spiritual in art. I want to co gratulate you for your book, expecting you will do many more.
Thank you Blanca!!! I love that quote of Kandinsky. Yes- I hope to write many more! Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy, thanks for the video about your book! I can hear your passion and excitement and would very much like to help you launch your book to the public if I can ! Would love to receive a copy too of course. All the best. Lynne
Hi Lynne, thank you so much! You’re exactly right- I’m so excited about the book. It’s been a dream of mine to write a book for decades. My hands were trembling from elation. Wonderful! I’ll be in touch soon about the book launch Lynne. Warmly, Nancy
A wonderful achievement to have gathered together in one book your views on how to create meaningful Art.
This is my testimony after having followed your online course “The Artist’s Journey”.
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree, (Beaux Art de Paris), we were taught art history, painting techniques, observation, etc. etc. but never was the key to true creativity given to us, and it all lies in our attitude, trust, taking risks, experimentations, accepting our errors and dark nights of the soul, wich you reveal so well in a clear and comprehensible manner, speaking from the heart!
“The Artist’s Journey” after 50 years of painting, was the turning point in my work, I have never felt such enthusiasm with my work. It can be seen on Instagram teresapisani studio.
Thank you Nancy for your truly enlightening words and videos, every artist whether debutant or established should know about teachings.
Please feel free to use this text in any way it can be of help to you.
Can never thank you enough for all you have done and are still doing.
Dear Teresa,
Where do I begin to tell you how much what you wrote means to me? Thank you, thank you , thank you for being here on this journey with me since the beginning. What you wrote is the most wonderful and moving testimonial. I’m deeply moved. Thank you.
Love,
Nancy
I cannot wait to get my copy! Was introduced to your work by a dear friend who has taken your course and her work is amazing!!!!
Fantastic Milagros! Thank you so much for your support and I’m delighted to hear about your friend. Please thank her for me. Warmly, Nancy
Congrats Nancy I’d love to be a part of the launch!! I’m really looking forward to taking this journey to begin my new year, I need a jump start, and am excited to begin.
Thank you Kandy! Wonderful! I’ll be sending an email soon. Great! I look forward to seeing you on the journey!
Congratulations!! This is such a wonderful event and I would be honored to help get the word out on your book. Let me know how I can be of assistance on launching your book.
I’m also very interested to read your writings on art making and this journey we are on.
Thank you so much Kim! Wonderful! I’m so excited that you’ll be part of the launch team. I’ll be sending out an email soon. Thank you for your interest and support. Warmly, Nancy
I definitely want to be a part of the launch please let me know what I can do. I have gained so much from your online course and will continue as long as I can! I have no formal training as an artist but have always created and I knew abstract was really what I wanted to do but did not know how you showed up in my inbox and I have loved every minute of it.
thank you so much
Wow Lois! You’re amazing! Thank you for your wonderful and enthusiastic art spirit and your willingness to step into the unknown to create your art. I love having you on this journey. Fantastic! I’m excited that you’ll be on the launch team. I’ll send out an email soon about it. Warmly, Nancy
What a thrill for you. I congratulate you on all you have accomplished. Not only your book, but your help to many artists. I am shyly tip toeing into your course; I want to support you but not sure how. Lead the way; I will follow. Best Wishes.
Ah…you’re so sweet Judith! Thank you!!! I’ll send out an email soon that will help guide the launch team. It will be fun! Thank you for being so supportive! Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy, I love your enthusiasm and honesty that you portray and share with all of us artists! I love how you make us look deep inside of ourselves to make art more meaningful. I would love to help launch your book I’m sure it will become a valuable resource for all artists.
Thank you,Diane
Hi Diane,
Your kind words brightened my day! Thank you so much!!! Fantastic. I’d love to have you on the launch team. I’ll be sending out an email soon. Warmly, Nancy
Hi Diane,
You brightened my day with your incredibly kind words. Thank you!!!
Congratulations Nancy! Count me in!
Thank you so much Robin! Great! I will see you on the launch team! Yay!
Congratulations to your work and expirence with art. Your shearing thoughts about growing up in expression in art.
I’m curious to read it once sample. My English skills are not so sophisticated, but I think by your enthusiasm I already understand the most.
warmly greating from Germany
Rina N.
Thank you so much Rina. Yes, there’s an understanding beyond words and I believe that art gives us that. Thank you for your kind note. Warmly, Nancy
I think the idea for the book is For aspiring and already searching artists your ideas offer a good working approach
I’m curious to read it once sample. My English skills are not so sophisticated, but I think by your enthusiasm I already understand the most.
Hi Nancy and this is so wonderful for you and the launch of your first book. Congrats. I would love to be on the launch team with other journeyers. Your on-line course has already launched me to look at my work in so many ways that having your book is a must. Hugs
Hi Gerri,
Thank you so much! Wonderful! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team. Thank you for being on this wonderful journey with me. I love seeing you in the course. Big hugs, Nancy
Hi Nancy,
I would definitely like to be a part of your book launch having listened to your videos and begun practiceingredients a few of your suggestions regarding creating abstract works which I am absolutly.
I first begun reading gestalt therapy when I was 17 years old and have come around to understand more now when I am just turned 67.
My first comment on your site includes a brief disclosure that I am coming out of a 45 year haiutus to work as an artist; begining with a sense of honesty and immediacy that I have just recently begun to develop; being more able now than when I was 21.
I am workingoing on the first stage of lesson one still creating get starts 8 so far that I do not want to go any further with. They seem complete. I have created a couple of those “uglies” though and do have the feeling that they could be the chrysalis in formation.
I can’tell tell you how relevant you thoughts are concerning the proverbial “dark night of the soul” I hit that place every time I BEGIN A PAINTING.
I am working on the lesson where I will open my work up to the possibility of adding colors to my “black and white and charcoal all over works:) ”
Please include me in your list of helpers on your journey.
Cheers this Christmas season,
Richard Dionne
Kelowna, BC, Canada
Hi Richard,
What you wrote here means the world to me. I sense an overarching journey of the movement of your deepest self expression over these fifty years. Yes- the dark night of the soul- the ever present facing of our darkest night- and yet within the darkness is the possibility of our transformation of finally trusting and believing in ourselves. Thank you for being on this journey with me. I’m excited that you’ll be on the launch team. Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy, I would love to be a part of your launch. I have watched everything I could watch from you for 2 years and then watched them again. I was in your program for a short time but bowed out as I knew that my time would be limited as it was and I helped my daughter navigate her journey through breast cancer treatment. She is doing great. She is all done and they told her she was cured and she should go home put it behind her and live her life. I am grateful beyond words for how the journey has gone and how we continue to learn as we go. I will also look forward to taking a class from you when the right one pops up again. I love you and you inspire me everytime I see you or read your posts. Thank you for doing the work your journey has required that some of the rest of us are helped along the way. Carol
Hi Carol,
This is absolutely wonderful, fabulous news about your beloved daughter! I’m so happy for her, for you and your entire family. Hallelujah! I remember this. What a wonderful mother you are.
Thank you so much for being here on this journey Carol. I’m so excited you’ll be on the launch team! It will be fun. I’ll send out an email soon. I look forward to seeing you again. Warmly, Nancy
Nancy – I’m so excited for you, this book will no doubt be a bright light for many creatives. Being on this journey has helped me get my 10,000 hours in and develop a regular painting practice. I’ve seen such growth! I’d love to be on your launch team❣️
Patti- Thank you so much. I love hearing how this journey has helped you cultivate your robust studio practice. This is fantastic. You’ve done incredible work evolving your art. Wonderful! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team!
Congratulations! Love your inspiration! Would love to hear more about the launch team
Thank you so much Jax! The launch team will help get the word out. They’ll receive a pre-release digital copy and will leave a review for me on Amazon which is important in getting exposure for the book. We’ll have our own Facebook page where we can connect over the launch, celebrate the book launch, see the backstory and so forth. It will be fun! Hope you’ll join us. Warmly, Nancy
HI Nancy! I would love ( and be honoured ) to be a part of your launch team! You are the reason I no longer fear the canvas, and I would love to spread the word about you to other ( aspiring ) artists who are trying to find their way. Congratulations! XOXO
Allison
Hi Allison,
Wonderful!!! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team! I can’t wait! Wow- what a wonderful testimonial you wrote here. It means the world to me. Thank you so much!!! Warmly, Nancy
Hi nancy
Congratulations! I’d like to be on the launch team!
Juanita.
Hi Juanita!
Thank you so much! Wonderful! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team!
Warmly,
Nancy
I am looking forward to your book. I am sure it will be a great help and inspiration.
Thank you so much Brenda!
Dear Nancy,
I can’t wait until your book comes out! You’ve been such an important person in my artistic journey, that I would be honoured to be part of your launch team! I’m sure the book will be a great success and I wish you all the best.
I’m heading to Budapest for Trevor’s wedding, but will be back for the launch.
Happy holidays,
Vicki
Dear Vicki,
Thank you so much. You and I go back to the beginning of this journey. I would be so honored for you to be a part of the launch team! Wow! Congratulations to Trevor and to you about his wedding! That’s wonderful. I wish him all the very best. Please send him my highest regards. Happy holidays to you too.
Warmly,
Nancy
Congratulations Nancy. Exciting big step in moving forward as an artist.
Thank you so much Georgia! I appreciate your kind words. Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations Nancy! The book looks fantastic. Love the square format.
By following your dream of writing and publishing a book, you are demonstrating first hand that it’s okay to step into the unknown.
A friend once told me ‘leap, and the net will appear’.
We are excited for your big leap!
Happy to help in any way I can. ❤️
Hi Rina! Thank you so much. You’ve been such a warm and steadfast friend through this journey with your kind and encouraging words to me and I deeply appreciate it.
Yes- every journey has its perils and this one has been no exception. It’s so true about leaping and the net appears. Thank you for being here. I’d love to have you on the launch team.
Warmly,
Nancy
Congratulations Nancy!
Thank you so much Lauren!
Congratulations Nancy! How exciting for you! Your book looks wonderful and I’ll be buying several copies as soon as they are available. Thank you for your wisdom, your encouragement and for sharing your process. It has been a wonderful journey. Best wishes for a big launch and huge sales!
Thank you so much Donna! I deeply appreciate your kind words of support and encouragement. It’s wonderful to have you on this journey. Thank you. Warmly, Nancy
A big congratulations on your book, what a wonderful reward for all of your hard work! What a treat for us to be on your launch team and to be able to have this book. You are such a great teacher and such an inspiration!
Thank you so much Mary James! It feels so wonderful to hold the book in my hands! It’s surreal! Wonderful! I’m so delighted that you’ll be on the launch team! Thank you for your dear, sweet words. Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy. Can’t wait for your book……congratulations. I’ll help launch (in Australia) with pleasure! Just tell me what is required!
Hi Dee! It’s great to hear from you. Thank you so much! Wonderful! I’ll be sending out an email soon about the launch team- mainly it’s about getting the word out. I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team! Yay! Big hugs, Nancy
Congratulations! I also like the square format. I look forward to
reading this and catching up on your videos! What does a launch team do? I appreciate all that you’ve put together for artists! Thanks!
Susan
Thanks so much Susan! The launch team gets the word out about the book (telling friends, artists groups, posting on social media, etc). I’ll send out a few emails over the course of a few weeks as we move toward the launch date of January 27. Launch team members will receive a pre-release copy of the book so they can read it and leave a review on Amazon in the first 24 hours of launch. The reviews are really important. I’ll have a private Facebook group for the book launch team where we can connect and I’ll be sharing the backstory of creating this book. I think it will be exciting. I hope you’ll join us! Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations your book looks beautiful and I can’t wait to see it in person. I know you have worked hard and we appreciate your efforts. Thank you
Hi Betty! Thank you for your kind words of support. It is truly a beautiful book crafted so well by amazing designers who showed up in my life. I’m so thankful for them as well as for all the wonderful artists out there, including you. We’re all on this journey of creating our most meaningful art and life. Thanks so much Betty!
Oh Nancy. The book is Gorgeous! I love the painting on the cover, and can’t wait to read you. Your little buddy,
Jazzy, was watching the video with me, and jabbered all the way through. I had forgotten how much he loves
watching you work. Look forward to launch time…………………
Oh Nancy! I’m laughing uproariously over here imagining Jazzy watching the video and jabbering away! Oh it’s so wonderful to hear from you my friend. I’m so excited about this book and the launch and so happy that you’ll be part of it in one way or another. Thank you- I love this book- the cover, the interior layout, the little hummingbird logo, the typography, the square format, the feel of the matte cover…it’s wonderful. Love, Nancy
Congratulations Nancy! Will be purchasing your new book when it becomes available. Would like to learn more about being a part of your launch team.
-Vickie
Thank you Vickie! I’ll be writing more about the launch team soon- essentially, we’ll be getting the word out about the book in whatever ways we can (telling friends, artists groups, posting on social media, etc). I’ll send out a few emails over the course of a few weeks as we move toward the launch date of January 27. Launch team members will receive a pre-release copy of the book so they can read it and leave a review on Amazon. I’ll have a private Facebook group for the book launch where we can connect and I’ll be giving you the backstory of my book journey. I think it will be exciting. I hope you’ll join us! Warmly, Nancy
I am soooo excited for you!!!
Congrats. I really enjoy your videos.
Thank you so much Katrina! I appreciate your kind words. Warmly, Nancy
Thank you so much Katrina!!!
A big congrats to you Nancy! What a wonderful accomplishment.
Thank you Margaret! You’re a sweetheart. Thank you for being here on this journey with me. Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations Nancy! I would love to be part of the launch team. I have a show opening on January 11 that I am calling “Studio Journey” as all the paintings were completed during the year long course. I’ll send you what I wrote about it for the gallery.
Thank you Carol! Wonderful- I’d love to have you on the launch team! Wow!!! I can’t wait to hear about your exhibition “Studio Journey” and what you wrote about it! I’d love to feature you on here. Congratulations!!! Love, Nancy
A BIG CONGRATULATIONS.Nancy…a great achievement & I can’t wait to get a copy of this book.
It’s been a great journey & now in print.Thank you,Rhonda???
Thank YOU so much Rhonda! It sure has been an amazing journey and you’re a big part of it for me. I absolutely love seeing how on fire you are with your art. You inspire me continuously Rhonda! Love, Nancy
Oh Nancy! Such a beautiful cover. When I see and hear you talking about letting go it just makes me want to go to my studio and paint. So delighted to see the end product of all your work. So wonderful to see it available for others to share and learn from.
Kathy
Hi Kathy! I know…I’m in love with this cover! By some amazing grace I found the most fabulous cover designer in New York and a few years ago I happened upon the wonderful brand designer Lauren Ledbetter in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s so exciting to see it come together after all this time. Thank you for being here Kathy. You’re always such an inspiration and an absolute sweetheart. Warmly, Nancy
I would love to be part of the launch team. A friend just messaged me yesterday asking of the Artists Journey was the class I had talked about at our Residency. I said YES and go for iT!!
Nancy,
I would love to be on the launch team. Can’t wait for the book to come out!
Hi Fern!
Wonderful! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team! Warmly, Nancy
Nancy, I just love that humming bird logo. Congratulations in reaching the proof milestone for your first book.
Cheers as ever.
Ruth,
Thank you so much! I’m in love with that hummingbird too! Thank you for your kindness and support and for being on this journey with me! Warmly, Nancy
Cannot wait to buy it !!! Congratulations Nancy. Your knowledge and insights are priceless and have changed the way I work forever. I’m grateful to have connected with you and the Studio Journey.
Thank you so much Roxanne! Wow! That means the world to me! I love having you on the Journey Roxanne! Big hugs, Nancy
Roxanne, thank you so much!!! Your kind words mean the world to me. I’m grateful for you too. Thank you for being on this journey with me.
Hi Nancy, looks great and be delighted to be on your Launch Team.
Hi Liz, Thank you so much and I’m delighted that you’ll join us on the launch team! Yay! Warmly, Nancy
Hi Nancy, this is so wonderful. The book looks great and I definitely need a copy. I’d love to be on the launch team, even though Inam not sure what exactly that means?
Gabriela
Thank you Gabriele! Wonderful! I’ll let you know more about the launch team soon. It will be fun. Warmly, Nancy
Hello. And congratulations. I want to buy the book. I feel yougo to the core of my difficulties with painting.
To trust myself. Even people tell me I am good in painting; I have painted mostly watercolours of landskapets I am afraid to do mistakes and not live up to what expectations people have. So thank you for sharing your knowledge and Ideas.
Hello Oddvin, Thank you so much! Yes, these are some of the perils of creating: fearing mistakes and not living up to others expectations. In the end, we’ve got to trust ourselves and realize that we came here in this life to be ourselves, to express ourselves in increasingly deeper ways. We’re ever evolving, always becoming…and it’s a wonderful thing. Thank you for your kind words. I’m delighted that you’re on this journey with me. Warmly, Nancy
I would like to be part of the launch team!
Hi Sylvia,
Wonderful! Thank you so much. I’ll be in touch about the launch team soon. Warmly, Nancy
I’m so excited for this book and will be excited to be on your launch team!!!!
Thank you so much Megan! Great! I’m so excited that you’ll be on the launch team!!!
Congratulations Nancy! The book looks wonderful and I look forward to having a copy of my own. Having your ideas and insights in book form is very special. All best!
Thank you so much Terry! It’s always wonderful to see you and your amazing work. I deeply appreciate your kindness and support. Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations, Nancy! I don’t know who I’m happier for – you or me. I’m checking today to see if I can preorder. If not I’ll order on the 27th, I also love square books and all the beautiful space in yours to help me soak up what is said.. It looks terrific. Can’t wait to help promote it. Sail on creative one and thanks for your mission.
Ah…thank you Julie! You’re such a sweetheart. I got a big smile reading your comment. Thank you for your encouragement and support and I’m delighted that you’ll be part of promoting it. Big hugs, Nancy
Congratulaciones Nancy!!!!! Wonderful. You have being my strongest inspiration. Finding the artist journey allowed me to explore my inner voice. Would have not been possible without your magical guidance.
Thank you so much Rocio!!! Your words completely lit up my day! It was wonderful having you on the journey. Watching the evolution and transformation of your self expression was nothing short of astonishing. I’ll never forget it. I’m sending you much love, Nancy
Congratulations on your book!
Thanks so much Jill!
Thank you so much Jill!
Oh, Nancy. I am so happy your new book will soon be in my hot little hands. It will be wonderful. Thank you for making it…for sharing with us so much of yourself, your art, your ideas.
I got a big kick out of that image of you holding the book in your hot little hands Mary Ellen! Thank you so much for being on this journey with me Mary Ellen. It’s been quite a wondrous time together as we venture into the unknown in our art. Warmly, Nancy
Congratulations on this project completed! Can’t wait to have one?
Thank you so much Penny! 🙂
Thank you for sharing such important “stuff”. I will look for your book. I’ve got to get started,,,, I am in the process to get a studio area….to be finished in the near future.yea! I will experiment!
You’re welcome Pauline. Thank you for being here and for writing Yes- now is the time to start experimenting! Yay! Warmly, Nancy
Fantastic Pauline! It sounds exciting! Thanks so much for being here.
Dear Nancy, I will happily giift your book to myself in January. A great opportunity to start to establish a regular studio time n 2019: only to experiment and nurture my soul! No expectations of perfect ART. Besides making Collages to sell, Neurographic Training etc. and all the rest of a fulfilled life. I don’t know what it means to be part of your launch team, but lt sounds great to be a part of it.
Dear Antje,
Wonderful! Thank you so much for your kind words and I’d love to have you on the launch team. It’s mainly about getting the word out about the book. I’ll send out more details soon. I love what you wrote about experimenting and nurturing your soul in 2019. That’s a wonderful image to hold in mind. Warmly, Nancy
I too would like to Join the launch team.
Have been attending art school in belgium for the last 12 years, graduated in model and acrylics, then 6 years in oils.
Now ready to shine in abstract! And Need all That personal coaching That you Nancy give to so Many people. Its all so inspiring.
Wonderful Joanna! Thank you so much for your kind words. I look forward to seeing you shine! I also look forward to seeing you on the launch team! I’ll send out an email soon. Warmly, Nancy
This is very exciting to me. I feel ready to step into new territory. It’s strange, but sometimes after a period of absence there rises a new energy and a profound desire to move ahead.
Hi Elizabeth! Wonderful! Yes, I know what you mean about coming back into something after absence or hibernation. Perhaps this is part of the life/death/life cycle where there are times when it seems that we’re absent but actually we’re percolating images, ideas, sensations…and when we come back to the studio we’re bubbling over with new energy. Thanks for writing! Warmly, Nancy
Please add me to your book launch list. I’m so excited to read it as soon as it is available. What a wonderful way to welcome the new year with a commitment to growth in my creative process and to help you spread the word to others.
Thank you so much Mary! Yes! I’ll add you to the book launch list. I think it will be fun!