As we enter this uncharted territory of life with the COVID-19 virus, I choose to not see it through the eyes of hysteria, but with a sense of calm. Throughout history we as communities have endured worse and have made it through stronger. Lets face it, as a global community we have been pushing the limits; with resources, climate change, the inequalities between those that have and those that have not, healthcare, governments working for some, but not for all and much more. You get the point, the list could go on and on. Things couldn’t continue on the trajectory as it was, I believe that this is the tipping point. A time when the universe has said to us all – STOP, time out. Have you seen the aerial photos of China with clean air or the images of clear waters with fish swimming in the canals of Venice. Now that we’re in this shift, where do we go from here as humanity and global community?
Let’s start with what we all are immediately facing; staying healthy, social distancing, working from home (or being out of work completely), schools closed and not losing our minds. Again its about coming out of this (and we will) better people, stronger communities and a safer world. Right now we need to hit reset on the virus exposure. That’s why it is vital that we follow the precautions set out by the medical/scientific experts. Stay at home if at all possible, avoid crowds larger than 10 and wash your hands, wash your hands, WASH YOUR HANDS. Am I making myself clear? Good old fashion soap and water for 20 secs or 2 Happy Birthdays. This will not only slow the virus spread, but protect you, your friends, loved ones and strangers. Remember what effects one, effects us all. For more precautions visit the World Health Organization’s “Advice for the Public”.
Social distancing doesn’t mean disconnecting, it means staying away from the potential spread of germs. My husband has recently been re-diagnosed with cancer. Although not great timing, but absolutely necessary, started chemo last week. So we are being extra precautions from here. Thank the digital age gods that we have access to social media, FaceTime and more. Keep in contact with your friends and loved ones. You’ll be amazed how much your spirits lift with a little interaction. A good friend of mine and I have decided to do a virtual lunch date. Get creative, have fun with it.
Immune builders, take care of your insides
Next, lets stay healthy and grounded. This could be a bit of a journey, I don’t believe there are any quick fixes. Take care of your immune systems now so that in an event you are exposed to the virus, you are ready for battle. Think of your immune system as your body armor, it will allow your body to have an edge in fighting it off. That also means eating right, healthy foods (I know we all want to stress eat, so an occasional indulgence may be necessary). Stay hydrated, just like our parents told us, 8 glasses of water a day. Take your supplements. We’re big over her on herbs, vitamins and oils. In fact we’ve upped our daily intake of EmergenC and Doterra’s On Guard. Dottera makes some of the best essential oils out there. A few drops a day on your wrist or soles of your feet will help build that defense barrier. Here’s a link to their site, Doterra On Guard Oils .
Mala made by my friend at Desert Rose Jewelry
Staying grounded means breathing, moving our bodies and shutting off the constant chatter being bombarded at us through the news. Being informed is important, being overwhelmed is not. Allow yourself a few minutes to check in, set a timer if need be, then move on to something more positive. Keep moving, there are lots of programs out there that you can virtually participate in. If you’re home with the kids, include them. Or if you’re home with the kids and mama needs a time out, consider a little yoga or mediation. I’ve personally been using a site call Daily Om. They have lots of programs to choose from and its on a donation basis. I’m using this time to deepen my daily practice. Call it woo-woo, but I believe we are all elemental beings. I use stones to help ground me. Its also a good physical reminder to stay present and breath. The beautiful mala in the picture above was made by a friend of mine, Marissa Newman. Check out here Etsy site at Desert Rose Jewelry , we need to take care of each other and keep commerce going.
Great online program by friend Dan Santat
How can we emerge from this better people and take advantage of this time of hibernation? We can only watch so much Netflix, personally we’re making our way through “Schitts Creek” over here. Why not brush up on your skills or learn something you’ve always longed to do. Try Free 2 Months of Skillshare , there are lots of fun programs to try out from painting, computer skills, art and crafts, cooking and more. Many artists are offering free downloads to use with the kiddos. My artist/author friend Dan Santat has put together a wonderful daily program called “Dandemic” to educate and entertain us all, young and old.
My current therapy on my painting table
Speaking of the arts, you’ve all seen the posts of Italians singing from their balconies. Use the hashtag #togetherathome over on Instagram to listen to some incredible musicians share their talents. I watched a wonderful hour long concert by John Legend, from his living room yesterday. Or if Broadway is your vice checkout the hashtag #sunshinesong to have a listen to many, who because of the sequestering aren’t able to present what they’ve been working on for months. Isn’t it interesting that the first thing we gravitate to in times of trouble are the arts, but its the programs deemed less important when budget cuts come around in the schools.
Because our pets always make us feel better, my loves Bodhi & Sydney
One more tip I heard someone speak of, start a journal. Not only will it help you clear the clutter, but it will be a record of history. A history that you and I are experiencing together. Feel free to join myself and others around the world at the 12 o’clock hour (AM/PM), in whatever time zone you inhabit. Take a breath, say a pray/mediation/good thoughts and see the world as healed. Many minds make big changes. Lets be vigilant, grounded, friendly and kind. We will make it through to the other side and I believe with all my heart, a better world is ahead after this global shift.
Namaste – Pam
Dream, Believe, Be, Inspire…Repeat
What is in those small quiet moments when we take the time to disconnect from electronics and the crazy world spinning all around us. Many times we are caught up in our jobs, the kids and the to do lists, rushing from one place to the next. Yet somewhere deep inside we sense that there is a calm place that our angels and guides are speaking with us, whispering words of encouragement or nudging us towards or away from something. Recently I listened to those gentle nudgings and signed up for a six month painting course with an artist from Portland Oregon, who I have long since admired, Kelly Rae Roberts. The name of the course is what really spoke to me at first, Spirit Wings-An Angel Painting Course to Inspire and Manifest Your Dreams.
Kelly Rae is one of those people who beams with such joy and happy grace. You sense that in her art work, blogs, books and if you follow her on Instagram, you see it in snap shots of her, wear your joy project. I first learned of her when I picked up and read her book, Taking Flight, the book spoke to me in many ways and made me realize that our paths of listening to that small voice were similar. I have been a believer in spirit, angels and the good of the world for many, many years. Its always nice to hit upon a fellow soul traveler. Since picking up that first book I have had the honor of taking and learning from Kelly Rae often. I watch and study how she runs her business, creates her enlightened art and inspires a community of liked minded soul seekers.
One of the things I am loving about this course is the introduction to new materials. Much of my freelance work is digital and has me attached to a screen and keyboard. This course is so freeing and such a great opportunity to just dive in and get my hands dirty. Many of my family and friends know how angels or butterflies have been a constant in my artwork and I have done mixed media pieces for many years. Getting lost in the layering and textured backgrounds that it creates. What I haven’t really experienced up till now was the use of oil pastels into the mix. I have to admit I am in love with their rich buttery textures and how easily they blend together. It is like working with creamy buttery yummy-ness. Since being introduced a few weeks ago I’ve been playing with and trying to incorporate them into other pieces that I’m currently working on.
An angel through the process –
“Listen to the notes that whisper on the wind”
What has truly been exciting about this art making process, is quieting my mind and truly just stepping out of the way. For me it has become another form of meditation as I just play with the materials and allow the piece to unfold. I have always admired great artists and writers who, as you gaze at the work or read their books, you have a sense that they stepped aside and allowed spirit to create through them. This is kind of how I am feeling with this current work. I am not sitting down and composing or planning the piece before I start. Honestly I am surprised when I am finished, its as if I am seeing it for the first time its a gift given to me by spirit. I learned a long time ago that when something is effortless and brings you joy, its what you are meant to be doing.
“Trust the Whispers that Flutter in on Wings”
Thank you Kelly Rae for inspiring us all with your work and sharing your talents. I look forward to spending the next five months with you and our fellow “spirit angel seekers”. It is my hope that as I continue to quiet my mind, this new artwork unfolding will not only whisper to my soul, but speak to the spirit of the viewer as well. Until next time dear friends, grab a moment from your busy day to take a few breaths and listen for your own quiet whispers too.
To learn more about Kelly Rae Roberts check out her link here; www.kellyraeroberts.com
Me and my oldest circa 1990 at the Ocean City NJ Boardwalk
You might remember in my last blog post I mentioned something about dreaming big and taking journeys. In honor of my oldest’s birthday and the incredible journey he is currently on, this blog post is about him. He has always been one of my biggest champions and my most honest critic. Twenty seven years ago I embarked on the hardest most remarkable journey I could take, I became a mother. I would reaffirm that choice three more additional times after that. All of my children are now out on there own, taking life by the horns (literally, for one you will soon see) and becoming their own unique beings. An empty nest is a big adjustment after so many years of raising four children, but I now get to sit back and marvel at the people those little poppets (as a south african friend used to call them) have become. Boy is this mama proud of the constant pursuit of their dreams and the beauty they have on the inside and out.
Dylan is my oldest and right now the most risk taking of all my children. He has been sports minded and competitive, dare I say, right from the moment of his birth. He was always on the go and very early on had an interest in sports, be it basketball, soccer, football, rugby, golf, racing or anything else in between. Even field day at elementary school became a championship event. One birthday was spent with his me camping in Cooperstown attending the baseball hall of fame and a AMA motocross race.
Dylan at one of his early soccer games.
So it was no surprise that when he went off to college he would pursue a degree in sport management. He attended Florida State University on a partial scholarship as a manager for the football team. As with everything Dylan does, he does it 110%. What started out as a way to throw off another team by signaling in defensive plays by a manager from the sidelines, became a permanent task for him throughout the rest of the time that he worked with the team. Being so far from home the highlight for us was when FSU’s football games were broadcast on national TV. We would all gather around the TV screen to check in on him as the cameras caught him in action on the sidelines.
(1) Dylan, on the right at his very first rugby game. (2) On the way to scoring at try at Florida State University. (3) Playing down under with the Warringah Rugby Club. (4) Getting ready to kick an extra point for the 2015 State Champions, the Orlando Griffins.
He also had a chance to play his first love of rugby at a Division 1 level. Going on to set records, playing on many select teams and be named MVP two years in a row. As in all things Dylan does he tackled his time with the team with full gusto, throughout his time at FSU wearing hats of player, team manager, captain and at times as a certified referee. When he went back to FSU to get his masters degree he even wore the hat as a coach, beside his best friend. To this day he still helps the by helping to run the alumni association. In the summer of his senior year Dylan went to Boulder Colorado and did his required internship working with USA Rugby, the governing body of all things rugby in the United States. One thing I have learned, is that rugby is a special club to be part of, no matter where you go you will always have a family to support you. Dylan has experienced this everywhere he has traveled or lived.
Dylan exploring the mountains of New Zealand from a motocross trail.
In between his under grad and graduate school year, Dylan decided to take a chance at seeing more of the world and pursuing his love of rugby by traveling down under. While there he made ends meet by bar-tending part time (as much as we Americans love an Aussie accent they appreciate an American one down there), he also worked with the Australian Rugby Union. He even had a chance to play authentic Australian rugby as a member of the Warringah Rugby Club. Embracing what the world of sports had to offer during his time there he took a trip to New Zealand to see the Rugby World Cup Championships be played out. While in New Zealand he wanted to explore the country and see it from the adventure’s eye. Renting a motocross bike he headed to the mountains and hit the trails. He even headed to the famous bridge in Queenstown NZ, where bungee jumping was birthed, strapped on his harness and took a leap of faith.
Dylan holding the actual Rugby World Championship Cup, as he worked a USA Rugby event.
This past year he has been working with the MLS’s newest soccer franchise, Orlando City Soccer Club, as they launched their inaugural season. After he sold the last season ticket the club laid off the sales team. As you can guess I wasn’t very surprised when he decided to again head off on another adventure to find his next position in the world of sports. I’ve tried to teach my children to dream big and to take chances on those dreams, so why not head to Europe for a few months, look for new employment at the same time seeking another sporting adventure, culminating in London for this year’s Rugby World Cup Championships. My only requirement to have my blessing was that he write a blog on his experiences, even if I was the only one to ever read it.
A throwback to basketball in the backyard and under the Eieffel Tower this past July 4th.
With much research and planning he packed a bag and left for Europe. He will meet up with friends at different locations, beginning with Cam in Paris. Their plans so far are to run with the bulls in Pamplona, watch a few stages the Tour de’France, catch a Moto GP race in Italy, play rugby with a former teammate from Orlando in Scotland and finish with the World Cup in England.
In the arena safe and sound with his friend Cam, after their run with the bulls.
They are budgeting tight, traveling by train and staying in hostels, trying to see Europe on a dime (or should I say euro). The budget is where the brotherly love comes in. Dylan’s youngest brother Sawyer recently had a chance to speak with him while he is traveling. They spoke of the things he could do while seeking out employment. With the budget so tight Sawyer was worried that he wouldn’t eat enough or be too concerned about funding that he might not get to experience this trip of a lifetime to the fullest. His big brother has been there for Sawyer through the good and recent hard times, so he wanted to do something to give back. His idea was to set up a GoFundMe page, to help offset some of the expenses. Sawyer is so excited to somehow be part of Dylan’s trip by helping him out in any small way that he can. To learn more about the funding page please check out this link- http://www.gofundme.com/Dylansadventure
(1) Brotherly love, Dylan and Sawyer at the beginning. (2) A surprise night on the sidelines helping his big brother out during a FSU/Maryland game (3) On a trip to Orlando for a R&R visit.
You can see by the stories of my oldest offspring, that the last 27 years have been of a life filled with set goals, BIG dreams, many accomplishments and maybe a few grey hairs. I am sure this unique way of job hunting, coupled with a sporting adventure twist ,will also be a success. It will be chalked full of enough great memories to last him a lifetime. To follow along on Dylan’s travels and to add one more (besides his Mom) to his blog readership go to http://www.wonderlustwalkabout.com. You will get a different perspective of Europe and I guarantee you a bit of a chuckle. I’m not only proud of Dylan’s courage and risk taking but also to be called Dylan’s mom. Let me wish Dylan a happy birthday and till next time go out and have an adventure today.
One of the pieces available in my Surtex Collections
I’m a little late writing about this recent experience, but as they say “better late, then never.” A few weeks ago I had the honor of checking something off my dream bucket list, a chance to show as an exhibiting artist at Surtex. Something I have been dreaming about since my “what did I really want to be when I grew up moment” a few years ago.
As many of your know when the economy downsized about six years ago and real estate did its “every ten year adjustment”, I took a step back to evaluated my life and my 20+ year real estate career. As much as I had success in my real estate business and loved my career, something was missing. For as long as I could remember creativity was vital. Out of high school I attended college studying fine arts and receiving my associates degree from Bucks County Community College. Then I worked in the print industry for a few years before starting a family and life going in a different direction.
But the creativity always found a way to bubble up to the surface, finding ways to escape. Be it late nights painting on the dinning room table, creating my annual holiday card, rehabbing houses or even with the marketing involved in real estate. So it was no surprise that when faced with life changes, that the creativity won out. My soul wanted to sing again. So I headed back to college at Moore College of Art as the oldest kid in the class and completed my BFA in graphic design and illustration.
We were all pleasantly surprised when we found out the Collective was represented on the back of the official directory.
Fast forward to the end of May and my journey to New York City to attend Surtex. This show is the largest art licensing show held annually at the Jacob Javitz center. It is a place where artists, agents, art directors, manufacturers and industry insiders meet to network, buy art and find new talent. It is a kaleidoscope of creativity as Surtex, the National Stationary Show and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair all inhabit the same space for the week.
Our magical booth, that’s my work on the left ,as well as my fun pillows on the chairs.
A year after graduating and working on freelance work, all the while squeezing in time for my own personal pieces, I was ready to descend on to the next chapter of my career. Armed with a portfolio filled with over 50 new collections I was ready for my debut in the Collective Art Agency booth. I had already walked the show floor the prior two years getting the lay of the land and networking with industry insiders, so I had hoped I was ready.
Me and my baby girl.
This year though I was not only being represented at the show, but I also had the opportunity to share this wonderful experience and art world with my daughter. Kayla has just finished her first year as a fashion design student at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in NYC. So not only was I able to spend the evenings with her and her room mates, exploring the city, but I now had a place to lay my head at night. Although not too much rest for the weary as the week of Surtex also collided with her finals week and a move into a new apartment. Did I say it was a 5th floor walk-up? So the pillow at night was a welcomed respite.
Patterns and beauty abound to the artist’s eye in the city, this was on my way to the subway station.
Upon arrival the first morning of the show, I have to admit I got a bit emotional when I eyed the Collective’s booth decked out in all the fantastic art of my fellow collectives and spied my name and artwork up on the panels. The next few days were filled with walking the great grounds of Jacob Javitz Center exploring all the fabulous creativity in all three shows. Networking with new friends and old ones, attending workshops from industry leaders, learning of the upcoming trends and filling up my creative cup till it honestly was running over.
Pattern and inspiration could be found everywhere you looked.
I came away with great feedback to my art and a few interested companies looking to work with me and my collections in the future. Also with a validation that those dreams long ago shelved were right to wake up my soul and push to the future. But honestly I think the biggest thing I came away with was such a profound admiration for my young daughter who came late to the creative party, but has found her passion and as excelled in her first year in design school. I watched as she mingled with the other artists, asking questions and engaging in conversations.
Having almost no sewing experience and very little actual art education, she was accepted to not only FIT but also to Parsons and my alma mater, Moore College of Art. Her hard work has excelled her talents so much. With many late night 3am phone calls in tears to her mama that she wasn’t sure she could do it, she persevered, learned a ton and has created some beautiful pieces, one of which was chosen by the school to be displayed for the fall semester.
My proud mama moment, Kayla’s coat to be displayed this fall at FIT.
I’ve tried to teach my children from the time they were wee ones, that “if you do what you love you’ll never work a day and your life.” I’m slowly taking my own advice. I’ve also tried to teach them to DREAM BIG, you’ll soon see in my next blog post that my oldest son, Dylan is taking that advice too. Overall I can say that this experience has been a success. It has been validation that it’s ok to reinvent myself and important to listen when my soul speaks up, she knows whats she’s talking about. So until next time, take a little time to dream, you’ll never know which of those dreams will come true next. Pam 🙂
A promotional piece designed with some of my collections for the upcoming Surtex Show
I’ve busy working away in my studio and a little absent from the blog pages,but you’ll soon see why. It’s been almost a year since I walked across the stage at Moore College of Art and Design to receive that long time in coming BFA in graphic design and illustration. I’ve logged in many many hours working with clients, companies and for myself and I see such a vast growth in me and my art in the last 365 days. But the true barometer of my work will take place soon in New York City at Jacob Javits Center. For what you may ask?
May 17th through the 19th many of the world’s great artists, designers, art directors and more gather for the yearly international licensing show , Surtex. There they view the trends, find new art for their products, network and discover new talent. Work that will then be seen in the coming year on fabric, paper, home goods and various other types of products. If it’s a product and has some sort of art or design on it, probably had it’s start there.
One of my happy patterns “Retro Fish” available for licensing at the show
The last two years I have attended the show as a spectator, walking what seems like miles of art, vendors and products. Getting my feet wet, networking with people in the industry and trying to understand this business of art licensing. Every year I’ve left with lots inspiration, new friends and tired feet. This year I will be viewing it not as a spectator but as an actual participant.
One of the things I did this last year for my business was join the Cultivate Art Agency. A wonderful group of artists from around the world represented together in the business of art, design and illustration. The agency along with it’s sister organization, the Cultivate Art Collective, will descend upon the floor of Javits Center with their enthusiasm and plentiful portfolios. I am fortunate this year to be an exhibiting artists in attendance. We will take up residence for the 3 days in booth #222, one of the largest booths there. I’ve managed to create and cull together over 50 design collections to be shown by my agent and shared with the design community. To say I’m a little nervous is an understatement, but honestly I think I am so full of happiness, that I get to share with the world what truly makes me happy and if that brings happiness to others then all the hard work will have been worth it.
A page from my portfolio showing how my designs might look on products
So the great count down does begin, to the launch and lift off of my art and designs. Here’s hoping with fingers and toes crossed that the collections are well received. Wish me luck or maybe being so close to Broadway it should be “break a leg”.
Gracefull Arts by Pam 