2025 Reflections and 2026 Plans

Whether you’ve been following along for years or are new to my art journey, I want to thank you for your support this year. 2025, in general, has been…harrowing? Tumultuous? Unpredictable—yet somehow not surprising?

Looking back, I’m deeply grateful that I didn’t just manage to stay in business, but actually grew it (by just over 13%) despite numerous challenges. I worked my ass off and reached a lot of goals—but none of it would have been possible without YOU.

Yes, I make art for myself. But if an artist creates work and no one sees it…did they even art? (I mean, yes—there is immense intrinsic value in the process.) But sharing the work with other humans—especially those who truly get it, who appreciate the vision and labor behind it—is what makes my heart burst. Since you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re one of those people, and I’m so grateful our paths crossed.

As I reflect on the year, here are a few highlights:

• Finished building my dream art studio with my (80-year-old and incredible!) dad
• Created 34 artworks
• Painted 12 murals, including my largest project to date
• Taught 12 art workshops and 10 multi-week art classes, including two Business of Art cohorts
• Participated in 9 art shows
• Attended 6 outdoor art festivals (as far as Atlanta, GA)
• Entered gallery representation for the first time with BoxHeart Gallery in Pittsburgh, PA
• Partnered with two new consignment/wholesale retailers, bringing my total to seven ongoing partnerships
• Traveled cross-country to work as a scenic artist for an escape room company, helping create immersive experiences for guests

If that sounds exhausting—it was. I learned a lot this year about my limits. Once the (literal and figurative) dust settled from the studio build and I began settling into my new space, it became clear that the pace I set wasn’t sustainable. I’m glad I pushed myself and gained ground, but 2026 will look very different.

2026 intentions:
• Rest and recharge more often (I’m not as young as I used to be, lol)
• Play more and spend time with my family—two kids head to college in the fall, which will be a big shift
• Reprioritize my health as I navigate perimenopause (y’all…IFKYK)
• Teach less so I can travel more for work

I remember thinking, “I can’t wait until I have a full year of business ownership under my belt.” After three years, I’m realizing that feeling never really goes away. Each year brings new challenges and opportunities, requiring constant pivoting and realignment.

Could I have chosen a more predictable path? Absolutely. I did—for many years. But forging my own way has been deeply fulfilling. I’ve gained confidence, flexibility, and problem-solving skills, and I know I’m better for it. My work is better for it. My family is better for it.

That said, if you happen to know any wealthy philanthropists in need of a charitable investment, I’m open to conversation. 😉

But seriously—even though the socioeconomic and political landscape feels bleak at the moment, I have to believe good things are coming in 2026. There are too many generous, creative, resilient people in my life—and in yours—to tip the scales the other way.

Buy art. Attend live performances. Shop local. Take care of your neighbors. And have a happy new year.

Much Love,
Laura