What a 12-Year-Old Taught Me About My Art

There is no way around it: outdoor festivals are a marathon. Showing your work means putting a piece of yourself on display for the world, and by the end, the 'talked-out' exhaustion is real. I spent the weekend surrounded by my latest pieces, standing and hoping the right eyes would find them.

But in that tired space, something beautiful happens. I met some incredible people this weekend—like the ones who walked straight to my booth knowing exactly what they wanted, or the 12-year-old boy who stopped to ask, 'Your art is so good, tell me about it.' Talking to him was a reset button. He reminded me that art is meant to be a conversation, regardless of age or price tag.

I’ll be honest: it’s easy to let comparison or doubt creep in during hours of slow moments, especially when you’re looking at the numbers. At times, I found myself wondering if I was really being noticed in a sea of art. This festival was a mental and physical challenge, and it didn't look exactly like I planned it to.

However, those genuine connections and the support I see here on my digital home remind me why I do this. Feeling 'seen' by even a handful of people—those who truly get the heart behind my art—makes the hard work worth it.

I’m heading back to the studio now with a little less energy but a lot more perspective. Better things are coming; I can feel it in my bones!