I don’t know about you, but this year seems to have flown by faster than usual. Every year, time seems to slip away more quickly, and I’ve noticed that my memory is getting increasingly selective about what it decides to hold onto. The only way I can really reflect on this year is by looking through the photos on my phone. If I didn’t take a photo, then it probably didn’t happen — or at least, that’s how it feels! Haha.
As we approach Christmas and the close of 2024, I find myself taking a moment to pause and look back on various aspects of my life. How did I progress this year? What did I truly enjoy? What did I just not have the energy for? As an artist and tutor, some moments felt like pure joy, while others definitely leaned more into the "work" category.
The Joy of Creativity
There’s something truly magical about being creative. The unadulterated excitement of coming up with new ideas, experimenting with techniques, and sharing those ideas with others is a thrill that never gets old. I find joy in telling made-up stories to the kids in my art classes, watching their faces light up as their imaginations come to life through their artwork. Seeing my students progress, both artistically and socially, as they form new friendships and become more confident in their creative abilities, is one of the greatest rewards of teaching.
This year, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a variety of students — from teens to primary school-aged children — in classes both online and in person. Whether it’s watercolours, oils, landscapes, flowers, or animals, there’s something uniquely fulfilling about helping others explore their creativity. This aspect of my work never feels like “work” at all.
The Less Joyful Side of Running an Art Business
However, as with any business — no matter how much you love it — there are always aspects that require more effort. Things like advertising, managing accounts, dealing with taxes, and staying organised are all necessary, but not always the most enjoyable. Motivation can be hard to summon when the to-do list feels endless, and yet, these tasks are essential in keeping everything running smoothly.
That being said, I feel incredibly blessed to be doing something I truly enjoy, and the effort required in the behind-the-scenes work is always worth it.
A New Family Member: Matisse the Ragdoll Cat
On a personal note, 2024 started with the arrival of a new member to our family: my wonderfully fluffy and friendly ragdoll cat, Matisse. He has brought so much joy into my life, especially when I’m in the studio painting. His constant companionship is one of the highlights of my day — although I can’t say I’m thrilled about his occasional brush with oil paint. So far, he’s only gotten himself into the paints once or twice, but I’m still debating whether I should make him a little French beret to complete his "arty" look. Who says an artist’s pet can’t have style, right?
Creating Art, Making Memories
This year, I’ve had the opportunity to create a wide variety of commissions, including portraits of people, animals, and special buildings that hold sentimental value for their owners. One particularly fun project was a treasure hunt I organised for Easter in Fife, where people could search for my hidden yellow boxes full of treasure. It was such a joy to see families getting involved in the hunt!
In addition, I’m proud to say that my Tree of Life painting now lives at Craigtoun Park. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to pop by the Craigtoun Café. The painting is made up of 12 separate framed panels that come together to create one large piece. Hidden within it are various animals and creatures for visitors to discover — a fun little challenge for anyone who loves a good scavenger hunt!
Travel and Teaching: A Year of Growth
2024 also took me to Seville and Bologna, where I taught for Flavours Holidays. These experiences were nothing short of inspiring, offering me the opportunity to teach in stunning locations while being surrounded by different landscapes, lighting, and cultures. It’s always refreshing to teach in new environments — it reinvigorates my own passion for art and sparks new ideas.
Of course, I continued teaching my regular classes as well, both online and in person. One of the highlights of the year was a fantastic outdoor painting day at Kellie Castle Gardens in June. We had the most perfect weather, and the sunshine seemed to recharge both our artwork and our bodies with some much-needed vitamin D. We also had a fun day in the small village of Brunton. The weather was temperamental but still lots of fun.
Exhibitions and Future Plans
This year has also seen my artwork on display in several group exhibitions. I’ve had pieces shown at Gallery Heinzel in Aberdeen, the Scottish Society of Artists at the Royal Scottish Academy, and the Macmillan Cancer Big Art Show in Edinburgh. I also exhibited at The Beild at Bluckruthven in Perthshire — each exhibition was a wonderful opportunity to share my work with a wider audience.
Looking ahead, I’ve been putting the finishing touches on a new body of work that I plan to exhibit in May 2025 at St. Mark’s Church Hall in St Andrews. The exhibition will be titled "Our Golden Thread", and I’m hoping to host a talk about the work and offer a catalogue for sale. It’s an exciting step forward in my artistic journey, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As we close out the year, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met, and the work I’ve created. 2024 has been a year of growth, both personally and professionally, and I’m eager to see what the next year brings. I’m especially excited for the new projects and exhibitions ahead, and for the continued joy of teaching and creating.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, and may 2025 be filled with creativity, growth, and new adventures. Let’s make it another year to remember!
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