 Fear Is A Choice. I have to admit that when this canvas arrived at my studio today, I felt a little overwhelmed. This is a BIG canvas. I am a SMALL human. I feel both daunted by the journey and thrilled for the opportunity and the adventure. I think I might call this my "David & Goliath" commission.  Looking Back. Looking Forward. Now more than ever, the world needs your unique expression of beauty & your fearlessness. In 2021, I taught 23 workshops spanning across 3 States & 2 Countries. This year, I'm pumping the breaks a bit - taking some time off to attend a soul rejuvenating yoga retreat in Mexico (just like I promised myself I would) & teaching only a handful of workshops close to home. If you've always wanted to experience/re-experience my in-person workshops, now is a good time. However, if you cannot attend, consider connecting with me for online instruction instead. I look forward to painting FearLESS with you in 2022. UPCOMING WORKSHOPS:  One of my favorite large-scale corporate painting commissions at Mountain America Credit Union. Inspired by Utah colors (including a heap of metallic copper powder!) & made possible thanks to the support of Alpine Art & Frame.  Dear Lovers, At the end of every year, I like to take some time to reflect on my experiences. What did I do? How did it feel? Is there anything I want to change or avoid? Is there anything I want to repeat? Is my life on the right track? 2021 was a challenging year both personally and professionally. As a result, I find myself extremely thankful for: my health, my family, a loving partnership, a growing small business (despite the pandemic), and an incredible community of talented, inspiring people. I am truly humbled for the support of loved ones, new and old friends, and fellow small business owners. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting your trust in me and my vision. I acknowledge your faith and kindness, it is not taken for granted. Seeing you enjoy my paintings, and thrive as a result of my workshops is a daily reminder of why I started painting & teaching in the first place. I transition to 2022 with renewed strength and hope for a beautiful year ahead of us. I pledge to reflect that same love and support I've been shown. I'm so excited to see what 2022 has in store for us. Love, Samantha  Emotional and Brilliant. Jordan Peterson Articulates "Why Art": "They are sacred objects and we gaze at them in ignorance and wonder, and the reason for that is... the unknown shines through them at us in partially articulated form."  In Terms of Forever acrylic & mixed media on canvas 50 x 72 in. "As I review the EVENTS of my past life I realize how SUBTLE are the INFLUENCES that SHAPE our DESTINIES." Nikola Tesla  Divine Harmony & Ocean In A Drop acrylic & mixed media on canvas 40 x 60 in. each Over my lifetime I have been plagued by the question: Where do I belong? I’m Brazilian but I don’t live in Brazil. I’m Canadian but I don’t live in Canada. I live in the USA but I am not quite an American.  Touching Peace acrylic & mixed media on canvas 30 x 36 in. Think of a blank canvas as an empty plate. Now imagine yourself arriving at a great, big buffet full of delicious options. The options before you are things like: different colors, mediums, textures and perhaps even different techniques. What will you choose to put on your plate? There are many considerations, but your choices will depend largely on 3 things:  Still I Rise acrylic & mixed media on canvas 24 x 30 in. Shadow Work involves getting in touch with the parts of yourself that you've repressed — or what some might refer to as their "dark side." When you dive into the unconscious material which shapes your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, you allow for the expression of a fuller, more authentic version of yourself.  In Terms of Forever acrylic & mixed media on canvas 50 x 72 in. I approach my canvas the same way as I approach my yoga mat: by setting an intention. My intention is to create a painting that will be a vehicle for: Abundance, Beauty, Celebration, Health & Healing, Inspiration & Love. Although these written mantras will eventually get covered up with layers of paint and texture, it is my belief that these intentions will still be felt by the viewer. The Start of Something New: Commissioned Painting for clients in Park City, Utah. |