The More I Give, The Richer I Am
At my core I believe in living generously. Anything I do for others I am doing for myself. Sharing provides me with a sense of self worth otherwise unattainable. If nothing were returned to me other than the satisfaction I feel from giving - that is plenty, but sharing typically results in reciprocity in roundabout, unexpected, or sometimes very direct ways.
Since beginning to paint in 2020 I’ve given away my originals to friends and family, even strangers. It just feels good. When I create something I want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to thoroughly enjoy the fruits of my labor; That’s why I started making prints and stickers and bookmarks.
Through what means other than money might I obtain some of what I need? Trading became a larger part of life when my therapist offered four sessions in exchange for office art. Her request: a butterfly. I learned that when I offer, or ask, people are happy to give what they have an abundance of in exchange for what I have an abundance of. When I share what I have an abundance of without expecting anything back, that is the definition of Gift Economy.
In my heart I want my art to be accessible.
I also want to call my craft my career and pay bills through painting.
Both are possible and coincide.
Beginning on December 25th, 2024, I will be removing cost. My art will not be for sale. This may be temporary or permanent. There’s beauty in the unknown. I’m doing what feels best and right, right now. My heart just wants to give.
So here comes the exciting part! I get to show you ways I have been showing up in my community - putting art in people’s hands, hearts, & homes.
This is a bag full of art bundles that I’ve been passing out anywhere and everywhere I go : to cashiers, bank tellers, shop owners, drivers, waiters, hostesses, bakers, pharmacists, nurses, passersby, and on and on.
I’ve even enlisted friends by giving them art packs to share with people or place in public where they will be found. This is one my friend (& go to jeweler) Elizabeth left in a Christmas tree in Crown Pointe, Indiana.
Several venues around my home, Grand Rapids, Michigan, have allowed me to come to their spaces and their events to share my work at no cost to others.
In September of 2023 I started something called Paintings for Patients where I sent or delivered art to people who were hospitalized. It felt special to be able to brighten someone’s day through color and the tranquil images I create. Over 50 people around the country have been reached in this way from children to elders, people living with chronic illness, people who survived accidents, folks in hospice and assisted living facilities, cancer patients, etc.
I cannot list all the fundraisers, benefit dinners, charities, and projects I’ve donated art to (originals & more) as part of auctions supporting their causes.
I’ve made memorial paintings to give to parents who lost their children.
Alright, I’m corny for this next line and I know it. I embrace it.
When I go to appointments and see the painting that my therapist proudly displays, it reminds me to be like the Monarch. When I spread my wings, they can carry me far. We all have gifts and to withhold them is a disservice to the world. Thank you so much for the gift of your attention if you read this far.
For anyone who is wanting and able to support my work, I created a Donations page on this site where you can enable my giving, financially and otherwise.
