When life gets in the way of art

(Because it often will.)

It's been a tumultuous past few months, my friends.

My life’s in complete upheaval, due to some painful relationship issues, and I’ve struggled to stay afloat with my business. Have been living away from home a lot, and am now in the middle of moving to my own little apartment. Making videos has been hard. Making art, even harder. I’ve had to shift around my original plans to find tasks I could manage in the midst of the chaos.

This place has felt like a refuge. Writing is something I can always do, from anywhere. No need to show up in front of a camera, keeping up a brave face. Or try to paint a collection of watercolors in a non-existent workspace. I’ve written (and coached) from my phone. And planned all of the things I want to do as soon as I’ve found my footing again.

But I’ve also had to accept the fact that there can’t be business-as-usual in the midst of heartbreak. Luckily, I’ve had my family close by for support. And books. And my journal.

There will be a lot of adjustment going forward. I haven’t lived on my own in many years - a prospect that feels both anxiety inducing and exciting. I used to be fiercely independent, and really crave alone time. Took me a long time to get used to living with someone else. And in the past five years, we’ve lived in a house on the countryside - something I’ve always dreamed about. But in hindsight, it wasn’t all it’s cut out to be for me. Even though I’ve enjoyed the silence and the closeness to nature (and birds), there has also been this this creeping sense of isolation. Of feeling stuck and disconnected. Hours away from my family. No car of my own.

I’m looking forward to having my own (little) space again. In a small, cozy town, a short walk away from my family. To surround myself with only my own energies. Design my days as I please. And have more time and peace for art and creative pursuits and growing my business. Finding a new kind of happiness.

I have a painting collection planned that I can’t wait to start working on, and several local exhibitions coming up during summer.

I’ve started one-on-one coaching other creative solopreneurs via voice messages, which has really lifted my spirits.

And I’m even picking up my freelance copywriting business again. Being a pen-for-hire once more. I’ve missed it more than I thought I would.

I’ve wanted change for quite a while, and now I get it. Albeit not in the shape I’d originally imagined. Oh well.

LIFE LATELY:

Solace by the sea.

This one was a gem.

My mom’s dog, missing her when she was away on an errand. ❤️

This was a more personal letter than I’ve written in quite a while. But I couldn’t have done it any other way. Life - and pain - is allowed to get in the way sometimes. I’m going to be fine, no matter what happens next. And you will too, if you’re going through some shit as well. Sending you my love if you are.

Warmly,

Louise

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Hi, I'm Louise - a watercolor wildlife artist, YouTuber and creative coach. I paint - mostly birds. I create courses for beginner artists. And I support creative solopreneurs with my digital products and coaching.

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