WYANNE THOMPSON : Contemporary Abstract Artist -ATLANTA

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W Y A N N E

Wyanne Thompson Contemporary Abstract Artist and Mentor

✨ The beginning doesn’t always arrive with confidence.
Sometimes it comes quietly.
Waiting to be seen.
Waiting for you to believe you’re allowed to start again. 💫

I still remember sitting with the best guy in the world after my surgery. 🤍
I was learning how to talk again.
I wasn’t sure if my battle with the “Big C” was done.
And then I found the courage to say out loud,
“I want to paint big. Like REALLY REALLY BIG.”

That moment changed everything.
A door opened. 🚪
And I stepped through.

I’m so incredibly thankful this painting found its home even before it made its way to Florida.
Grateful beyond words ✨🙏

🖼️ The Beginning Is Always Waiting to Be Seen
📏 30 x 30 x 1.5 in
🎨 Mixed media on canvas
✨ Sold

🌸 All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
⭐ Mac Fine Art, @macfineart Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs and Presales available on the gallery website

✨ The beginning doesn’t always arrive with confidence.
Sometimes it comes quietly.
Waiting to be seen.
Waiting for you to believe you’re allowed to start again. 💫

I still remember sitting with the best guy in the world after my surgery. 🤍
I was learning how to talk again.
I wasn’t sure if my battle with the “Big C” was done.
And then I found the courage to say out loud,
“I want to paint big. Like REALLY REALLY BIG.”

That moment changed everything.
A door opened. 🚪
And I stepped through.

I’m so incredibly thankful this painting found its home even before it made its way to Florida.
Grateful beyond words ✨🙏

🖼️ The Beginning Is Always Waiting to Be Seen
📏 30 x 30 x 1.5 in
🎨 Mixed media on canvas
✨ Sold

🌸 All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
⭐ Mac Fine Art, @macfineart Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs and Presales available on the gallery website

They left earlier than planned.😳
A big storm coming, a narrow window, and suddenly everything sped up.

Thankfully Erika (aka @erikadanielleart the best assistant in the world💪) had almost everything wrapped and ready. The best guy in the world and I stayed up WAY too late finishing the rest. Midnight 😂 but we did it.

And just like that… the truck pulled up, the paintings were loaded, and they were gone. Just hours before the storm hit.

I don’t math, but there were over 20 paintings 🤯
Seeing them all wrapped and leaving made me a little sad… and also very much THIS IS HAPPENING.

I haven’t had the heart to walk into the empty studio yet. This has been 9 months in the making. 🎨
Between the ice, the dogs, and the quiet, we’ve been content staying home in our jammies for now 🐾

Godspeed to Florida ☀️
Come see me in warm, sunny Ft. Lauderdale and help me celebrate the opening on Valentine’s Day. 💕

Pinch me. I still can’t believe this is happening. 🤍

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
📍 Mac Fine Art, @macfineart Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs available on the gallery website

They left earlier than planned.😳
A big storm coming, a narrow window, and suddenly everything sped up.

Thankfully Erika (aka @erikadanielleart the best assistant in the world💪) had almost everything wrapped and ready. The best guy in the world and I stayed up WAY too late finishing the rest. Midnight 😂 but we did it.

And just like that… the truck pulled up, the paintings were loaded, and they were gone. Just hours before the storm hit.

I don’t math, but there were over 20 paintings 🤯
Seeing them all wrapped and leaving made me a little sad… and also very much THIS IS HAPPENING.

I haven’t had the heart to walk into the empty studio yet. This has been 9 months in the making. 🎨
Between the ice, the dogs, and the quiet, we’ve been content staying home in our jammies for now 🐾

Godspeed to Florida ☀️
Come see me in warm, sunny Ft. Lauderdale and help me celebrate the opening on Valentine’s Day. 💕

Pinch me. I still can’t believe this is happening. 🤍

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
📍 Mac Fine Art, @macfineart Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs available on the gallery website

This took me a few days 🥹 🤍

I’m not very good at receiving things like this. My inner critic shows up fast and loud and starts telling me it’s a mistake or that it can’t possibly be true. So I needed time. Time to sit with it and let it land.

I’ve been living inside this work for months now 🎨
Day after day. Quiet hours. Long hours. Painting because I love it and because there is truly no other way I’d rather spend my time. Well… except maybe sewing 🧵😊

So much of why I paint comes from wanting to give someone a small pause. To help them step off autopilot for just a moment. To feel something beautiful and let go of whatever worries they’re carrying. I never fully realized how deeply the work might move someone. That feels almost too big to hold. But I’m trying. With so much gratitude ❤️

The work is about to leave my studio and head to the gallery, and I already feel that strange mix of emptiness and anticipation. I know that when I walk into Mac Fine Art and see it on those incredible walls, I will cry happy tears. Because that has always been the dream for me ✨

I hope you can come to the show. I’d love to give you a hug 🤗

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 February 14
⏰ 6 to 9 pm
⭐ @macfineart , Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs available on the gallery website

This took me a few days 🥹 🤍

I’m not very good at receiving things like this. My inner critic shows up fast and loud and starts telling me it’s a mistake or that it can’t possibly be true. So I needed time. Time to sit with it and let it land.

I’ve been living inside this work for months now 🎨
Day after day. Quiet hours. Long hours. Painting because I love it and because there is truly no other way I’d rather spend my time. Well… except maybe sewing 🧵😊

So much of why I paint comes from wanting to give someone a small pause. To help them step off autopilot for just a moment. To feel something beautiful and let go of whatever worries they’re carrying. I never fully realized how deeply the work might move someone. That feels almost too big to hold. But I’m trying. With so much gratitude ❤️

The work is about to leave my studio and head to the gallery, and I already feel that strange mix of emptiness and anticipation. I know that when I walk into Mac Fine Art and see it on those incredible walls, I will cry happy tears. Because that has always been the dream for me ✨

I hope you can come to the show. I’d love to give you a hug 🤗

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 February 14
⏰ 6 to 9 pm
⭐ @macfineart , Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs available on the gallery website

This piece has already found its home through the presale, and my heart is full. 💗
I am so thankful to the collector who trusted their instinct and claimed it ahead of the opening. There is something quietly meaningful about knowing it has already been chosen, even before the show begins. 🔴✨

I have always loved octopuses. 🐙
Their intelligence, creativity, and quiet presence have stayed with me for years. During a very hard season in my life 🏥, octopuses found their way to me from friends, family, and people I had never met. Some were teeny tiny, others surprisingly large, soft, and cuddly. They became unexpected companions and silent cheerleaders during a time that was physically and emotionally difficult. 🤍

I often joke that I would love to have a pet octopus. Must be the Pisces in me. ♓️
Instead, I surround myself with small aquariums filled with plants, shrimp, fish, and snails. 🌿🦐🐟🐌 That underwater world quietly weaves its way into my imagination, and every once in a while, the magic of the octopus slips into a painting. ✨🎨

✨ The Dream of the Octopus Garden
📏 36 x 48 inches
🎨 Mixed media on canvas
🔴 Sold

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day, February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm (please come I’ll be there!🤗)
📍 Mac Fine Art, Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs & Presales available @macfineart

This piece has already found its home through the presale, and my heart is full. 💗
I am so thankful to the collector who trusted their instinct and claimed it ahead of the opening. There is something quietly meaningful about knowing it has already been chosen, even before the show begins. 🔴✨

I have always loved octopuses. 🐙
Their intelligence, creativity, and quiet presence have stayed with me for years. During a very hard season in my life 🏥, octopuses found their way to me from friends, family, and people I had never met. Some were teeny tiny, others surprisingly large, soft, and cuddly. They became unexpected companions and silent cheerleaders during a time that was physically and emotionally difficult. 🤍

I often joke that I would love to have a pet octopus. Must be the Pisces in me. ♓️
Instead, I surround myself with small aquariums filled with plants, shrimp, fish, and snails. 🌿🦐🐟🐌 That underwater world quietly weaves its way into my imagination, and every once in a while, the magic of the octopus slips into a painting. ✨🎨

✨ The Dream of the Octopus Garden
📏 36 x 48 inches
🎨 Mixed media on canvas
🔴 Sold

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day, February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm (please come I’ll be there!🤗)
📍 Mac Fine Art, Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs & Presales available @macfineart

I have officially reached hyper gear 🌀
I am one week away from having everything finished so @erikadanielleart can do her magic, the gallery can pick it up, and the work can head to Florida for the show ✨🎨

I still find myself pinching my arm because this feels like such a dream come true 💫 I have worked incredibly hard and I am genuinely happy with the work. That can be a difficult thing for an artist to say because we are often our own worst critics. But there is a deep satisfaction that comes from knowing I dedicated my energy and painted straight from my soul 🤍 That helps quiet the worries, even though yes, they still sneak in 🌿

I keep reminding myself of one of my favorite Andy Warhol quotes
“Don’t think about making art, just get it done.” 🖌️

That is exactly where I am right now. Trusting myself. Putting my head down. Getting it done 🔥

Zizi thinks I should not be that high up and is doing her best to tell me to come down 🐶 Her gotcha day just happens to be the show opening on Valentine’s Day 💕 I cannot believe it has already been a year since we adopted her. She had been severely neglected and I trusted my gut. She turned out to be exactly what was missing in my life. Always watching me, Rae’s playmate and partner in crime, and the best snuggler 🧸

So here I am again, trusting my gut. Trusting the work. Trusting the light 🌟

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
📍 @macfineart , Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs and Pre-sales available on the gallery website

I have officially reached hyper gear 🌀
I am one week away from having everything finished so @erikadanielleart can do her magic, the gallery can pick it up, and the work can head to Florida for the show ✨🎨

I still find myself pinching my arm because this feels like such a dream come true 💫 I have worked incredibly hard and I am genuinely happy with the work. That can be a difficult thing for an artist to say because we are often our own worst critics. But there is a deep satisfaction that comes from knowing I dedicated my energy and painted straight from my soul 🤍 That helps quiet the worries, even though yes, they still sneak in 🌿

I keep reminding myself of one of my favorite Andy Warhol quotes
“Don’t think about making art, just get it done.” 🖌️

That is exactly where I am right now. Trusting myself. Putting my head down. Getting it done 🔥

Zizi thinks I should not be that high up and is doing her best to tell me to come down 🐶 Her gotcha day just happens to be the show opening on Valentine’s Day 💕 I cannot believe it has already been a year since we adopted her. She had been severely neglected and I trusted my gut. She turned out to be exactly what was missing in my life. Always watching me, Rae’s playmate and partner in crime, and the best snuggler 🧸

So here I am again, trusting my gut. Trusting the work. Trusting the light 🌟

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Valentine’s Day February 14
⏰ Opening reception 6 to 9 pm
📍 @macfineart , Fort Lauderdale
💌 RSVPs and Pre-sales available on the gallery website

Understanding changed everything for me 🫶
It wasn’t loud.
It wasn’t sudden.
It was a small shift toward acceptance, and then the light started to shine 🌤️

I began to slowly see things differently.
It f*ing took a while 😮‍💨

I can’t taste food anymore, but I feel the energy it gives me 🍋🌿
I can’t always say what I want clearly, but I can paint it 🎨💭

That quiet shift opened space for me.
To be more compassionate.
To feel deeper gratitude.
To find a peace I had never known before 🤍

Understanding changed everything for me 🫶
It wasn’t loud.
It wasn’t sudden.
It was a small shift toward acceptance, and then the light started to shine 🌤️

I began to slowly see things differently.
It f*ing took a while 😮‍💨

I can’t taste food anymore, but I feel the energy it gives me 🍋🌿
I can��’t always say what I want clearly, but I can paint it 🎨💭

That quiet shift opened space for me.
To be more compassionate.
To feel deeper gratitude.
To find a peace I had never known before 🤍

For me, it all begins with the light 🌟

On the drive home after my cancer diagnosis, through the rain and my own tears, I noticed the light 💫 The energy it held. It felt like seeing it for the first time.

That moment changed everything 🌈

This body of work has been building for a long time, and I’m grateful to finally begin sharing it with you 🎨

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Opens February 14
⭐ @macfineart

For me, it all begins with the light 🌟

On the drive home after my cancer diagnosis, through the rain and my own tears, I noticed the light 💫 The energy it held. It felt like seeing it for the first time.

That moment changed everything 🌈

This body of work has been building for a long time, and I’m grateful to finally begin sharing it with you 🎨

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Opens February 14
⭐ @macfineart

Love doesn’t always feel joyful in the moment. ❤️
Sometimes joy comes later, after staying, after choosing it again, after time has passed ✨

This was one of the very first pieces I started for the show, and also one of the smallest, which is probably why it holds so much of the heart of the journey for me 🤗 And you know how much I love pink! 💗

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!🥂

🖼️ Love Becoming Joy
🎨 mixed media on canvas
📏 30 x 30 in
⭐ @macfineart

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Opens February 14
💌 RSVPs and presales available on the gallery site

Love doesn’t always feel joyful in the moment. ❤️
Sometimes joy comes later, after staying, after choosing it again, after time has passed ✨

This was one of the very first pieces I started for the show, and also one of the smallest, which is probably why it holds so much of the heart of the journey for me 🤗 And you know how much I love pink! 💗

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!🥂

🖼️ Love Becoming Joy
🎨 mixed media on canvas
📏 30 x 30 in
⭐ @macfineart

✨ All the Light We Are Given
📅 Opens February 14
💌 RSVPs and presales available on the gallery site

New Year’s Eve in the studio 🤍
Quiet moments like this one feel especially sweet ✨

I’m starting a new large 72 x 96 canvas for my solo show, and it feels like the perfect way to close out the year 🎨 For more than six months, I’ve had the gift of time. Time to show up every day. Time to listen more closely to the work. Time to follow things all the way through instead of rushing past them.

Preparing for a solo show is a lot. Patience. Endurance. Trust. It’s been repetitive at times, exhausting at others, and somehow still full of small miracles 💫 The kind that happen when you give yourself permission to stay with something long enough to really understand it.

I’m deeply grateful for this season of focus. For the space to concentrate. For the chance to grow. And for the quiet companionship of my studio crew 🐾

As this year closes, I’m feeling thankful 🤲
For the work.
For the time.
For what’s unfolding.

I can’t wait to share what I’ve been working toward. My solo show All the Light We Are Given opens Valentine’s Day, February 14, at @macfineart in Fort Lauderdale 💗 Opening reception details and RSVP info are on their site. I hope you’ll come.

Happy new year, and thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me 💛

New Year’s Eve in the studio 🤍
Quiet moments like this one feel especially sweet ✨

I’m starting a new large 72 x 96 canvas for my solo show, and it feels like the perfect way to close out the year 🎨 For more than six months, I’ve had the gift of time. Time to show up every day. Time to listen more closely to the work. Time to follow things all the way through instead of rushing past them.

Preparing for a solo show is a lot. Patience. Endurance. Trust. It’s been repetitive at times, exhausting at others, and somehow still full of small miracles 💫 The kind that happen when you give yourself permission to stay with something long enough to really understand it.

I’m deeply grateful for this season of focus. For the space to concentrate. For the chance to grow. And for the quiet companionship of my studio crew 🐾

As this year closes, I’m feeling thankful 🤲
For the work.
For the time.
For what’s unfolding.

I can’t wait to share what I’ve been working toward. My solo show All the Light We Are Given opens Valentine’s Day, February 14, at @macfineart in Fort Lauderdale 💗 Opening reception details and RSVP info are on their site. I hope you’ll come.

Happy new year, and thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me 💛

For years, before cancer, I used to go to Art Basel in Miami & walk those aisles dreaming of one day showing there. Back then I wasn’t painting big. I wasn’t even sure what my voice really was yet. I just knew I wanted to belong in that world someday. 🎨. Then cancer came. Somehow, in the middle of losing so much, I found courage and a new voice & started painting big. Really big. From the heart. ❤️

When I was finally well, I went back to Miami. Strangely, it didn’t hold the same magic for me. Something felt missing. I was staying in Ft. Lauderdale & decided to step into a gallery I’d never visited before. Mac Fine Art @macfineart

The moment I walked through the door, I was transformed. ✨ Swept away by magic. I met the gallery director at the time. @adamcolliernoel , who is now a dear friend, and he said my work might be a fit. 😮

Mary Ann, the owner liked my work too. But, I’ll be honest. I was intimidated. It took me a couple of years to believe I had paintings worthy of such an incredible space. My dang inner critic had a lot to say. 😠

One day Mary Ann visited my studio. I told her how much I wanted to show at @macfineart. How Art Basel used to be the dream, but Mac had quietly replaced it. I was thinking maybe a group show someday.🤞

She looked at me & said, let’s do it next year.

I don’t think my toes have touched the ground since. 💫

Mac has since moved into a stunning new space. Bigger, Brighter, more beautiful than before. They asked me to do a solo show to celebrate! A SOLO SHOW! 🙏

I can barely type without tears. 🥹

I’ve been working nonstop for months. I rarely do solo shows because of the time, energy and devotion they require. The last one was in 2021 when Covid gave me the space to prepare. But this one mattered too much not to give it absolutely everything I have. 💛

So here it is. Opening Valentine’s Day. ❤️ Feb. 14th. I truly cannot imagine a more perfect day.

I hope you’ll come. I hope you’ll celebrate with me. I’ll be sharing more work in the coming weeks. The gallery is doing pre-sales and RSVP’s for the show. Thanks for being here & cheering me on, & believing in my journey, even when I was quiet. All the gratitude & light 🤗

For years, before cancer, I used to go to Art Basel in Miami & walk those aisles dreaming of one day showing there. Back then I wasn’t painting big. I wasn’t even sure what my voice really was yet. I just knew I wanted to belong in that world someday. 🎨. Then cancer came. Somehow, in the middle of losing so much, I found courage and a new voice & started painting big. Really big. From the heart. ❤️

When I was finally well, I went back to Miami. Strangely, it didn’t hold the same magic for me. Something felt missing. I was staying in Ft. Lauderdale & decided to step into a gallery I’d never visited before. Mac Fine Art @macfineart

The moment I walked through the door, I was transformed. ✨ Swept away by magic. I met the gallery director at the time. @adamcolliernoel , who is now a dear friend, and he said my work might be a fit. 😮

Mary Ann, the owner liked my work too. But, I’ll be honest. I was intimidated. It took me a couple of years to believe I had paintings worthy of such an incredible space. My dang inner critic had a lot to say. 😠

One day Mary Ann visited my studio. I told her how much I wanted to show at @macfineart. How Art Basel used to be the dream, but Mac had quietly replaced it. I was thinking maybe a group show someday.🤞

She looked at me & said, let’s do it next year.

I don’t think my toes have touched the ground since. 💫

Mac has since moved into a stunning new space. Bigger, Brighter, more beautiful than before. They asked me to do a solo show to celebrate! A SOLO SHOW! 🙏

I can barely type without tears. 🥹

I’ve been working nonstop for months. I rarely do solo shows because of the time, energy and devotion they require. The last one was in 2021 when Covid gave me the space to prepare. But this one mattered too much not to give it absolutely everything I have. 💛

So here it is. Opening Valentine’s Day. ❤️ Feb. 14th. I truly cannot imagine a more perfect day.

I hope you’ll come. I hope you’ll celebrate with me. I’ll be sharing more work in the coming weeks. The gallery is doing pre-sales and RSVP’s for the show. Thanks for being here & cheering me on, & believing in my journey, even when I was quiet. All the gratitude & light 🤗

This photo was taken months ago, back when the studio was clean and calm before the chaos of this secret project took over. 🎨 I’ve been working on it non stop, and I’m so happy to say it’s come to life.

Now the studio looks nothing like this 😂 Poor Louie the dachshund 🐾, who’s old and blind, has to navigate a maze of paintings just to find his way to me. But wow… you guys, this is really happening. I can’t wait to tell you about my show in February 💫 and I can’t wait to finally share the work with you.

It’s been a roller coaster 🎢 It’s been Groundhog Day. It’s been magic ✨ I’ve learned so much about myself, my work, and my process. As an artist, that’s everything.

Thank you for all your incredible comments on my last post, they truly lift me up 💛 And thank you for hanging with me while I stayed a bit quiet these past months. I finally get to start sharing this with you this week, and I can’t wait. 💕

Saying lots and lots of thank you’s today for you, for this wild creative ride, and for this beautiful life I get to live 🌈 and especially to @macfineart for believing in me 🙏

Oh… and holy moly, let’s not forget the best assistant in the world @erikadanielleart 💪🎨 I absolutely couldn’t do this without her ❤️

This photo was taken months ago, back when the studio was clean and calm before the chaos of this secret project took over. 🎨 I’ve been working on it non stop, and I’m so happy to say it’s come to life.

Now the studio looks nothing like this 😂 Poor Louie the dachshund 🐾, who’s old and blind, has to navigate a maze of paintings just to find his way to me. But wow… you guys, this is really happening. I can’t wait to tell you about my show in February 💫 and I can’t wait to finally share the work with you.

It’s been a roller coaster 🎢 It’s been Groundhog Day. It’s been magic ✨ I’ve learned so much about myself, my work, and my process. As an artist, that’s everything.

Thank you for all your incredible comments on my last post, they truly lift me up 💛 And thank you for hanging with me while I stayed a bit quiet these past months. I finally get to start sharing this with you this week, and I can’t wait. 💕

Saying lots and lots of thank you’s today for you, for this wild creative ride, and for this beautiful life I get to live 🌈 and especially to @macfineart for believing in me 🙏

Oh… and holy moly, let’s not forget the best assistant in the world @erikadanielleart 💪🎨 I absolutely couldn’t do this without her ❤️

I’ve been painting every day — probably harder than I ever have in my life. February is a really big deal for me… one of those pinch-me, I-can’t-believe-this-is-happening moments. 🌈

Someone mentioned recently that they missed my old style, and it stuck with me for a minute. But the truth is, I don’t really think in terms of style. I just paint what’s in my heart ❤️. From the day I was diagnosed almost twelve years ago, everything has been about light and energy — the kind I noticed for the first time when I didn’t know what a stage IV future held. 🌤️

I lost a lot in that journey, but I learned even more. I learned that I’m stronger than I ever imagined 💪. That the collective energy of people — even strangers — can lift you when you can’t stand on your own. I learned how to say thank you — for the smallest things. For the way a fabric feels on my skin, or how the paint dries in a way I didn’t expect. 🌸

As an artist, I still feel that pull to keep learning, to push myself, to master this language of paint 🎨. It’s not easy — but it’s magic. I’m amazed that I get to do this every day, and so thankful for every bit of light and every person that got me here. 💛 Happy Weekend Everyone! 🤗

I’ve been painting every day — probably harder than I ever have in my life. February is a really big deal for me… one of those pinch-me, I-can’t-believe-this-is-happening moments. 🌈

Someone mentioned recently that they missed my old style, and it stuck with me for a minute. But the truth is, I don’t really think in terms of style. I just paint what’s in my heart ❤️. From the day I was diagnosed almost twelve years ago, everything has been about light and energy — the kind I noticed for the first time when I didn’t know what a stage IV future held. 🌤️

I lost a lot in that journey, but I learned even more. I learned that I’m stronger than I ever imagined 💪. That the collective energy of people — even strangers — can lift you when you can’t stand on your own. I learned how to say thank you — for the smallest things. For the way a fabric feels on my skin, or how the paint dries in a way I didn’t expect. 🌸

As an artist, I still feel that pull to keep learning, to push myself, to master this language of paint 🎨. It’s not easy — but it’s magic. I’m amazed that I get to do this every day, and so thankful for every bit of light and every person that got me here. 💛 Happy Weekend Everyone! 🤗

Sometimes the present moment itself is the warmest place to rest. ☀️

🖼️ Held in the Warmth of Now
📏 28 x 28 x 1.5”
🎨 Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📍 Available @dkcontemporarygallery

Sometimes the present moment itself is the warmest place to rest. ☀️

🖼️ Held in the Warmth of Now
📏 28 x 28 x 1.5”
🎨 Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📍 Available @dkcontemporarygallery

It’s been a minute since I’ve posted… I’ve been in this strange, beautiful bubble getting ready for a big show (spoiler alert lol) coming up in February. 💘
A bubble that’s been both a blessing and a little isolating. Some days feel like Groundhog Day… same routine, same paint clothes, same studio 🖼️😅. And then the moment the brush hits the canvas, everything shifts. The world opens up again. ✨

I’m not sure I’ve ever had this kind of uninterrupted time to dedicate to my work. And I don’t know how else to say this except… I feel it in my gut ❤️🙏❤️. This show feels important. Not in a big flashy way, but in a deep, soul-level way. Like something I’ve been moving toward my whole life without fully realizing it.

The days are long. Some days I’m flying high, proud of every mark I made 💛. And the next day I’m doubting everything. But I’m learning to be gentle with myself — to let the paintings unfold instead of forcing them into existence. 🌿

Because when they do arrive… when a painting turns that mysterious corner and suddenly becomes something I’ve been trying to reach for years… it’s powerful. It feels like, “Oh. This. This is the thing I’ve been trying to say since the moment I knew I wanted to be an artist.”

And then I start the next piece… and I’m right back in the struggle. 😅
But each one has its own personality, its own timing, its own way of being born. I’m learning to trust the ebb and flow — the joy, the doubt, the magic, the mess — all of it. ✨

When I started this project, I had myself on a rigid timeline. X number of paintings by X date.
I’ve let that go.
Now I’m letting each piece take the time it needs, and in return… I’m creating work that feels honest and brave — pieces I didn’t even know I had in me until now. 💗🎨

So thank you for being patient with me while I’ve been quieter on here. I’m realizing how easily the smallest distraction can knock me out of my groove right now — and how important rest is, too. It’s a fine line. 🌙

But I’m here. I’m working. I’m grateful.
And I can’t wait to share more of this journey with you soon. 🌸✨💛

It’s been a minute since I’ve posted… I’ve been in this strange, beautiful bubble getting ready for a big show (spoiler alert lol) coming up in February. 💘
A bubble that’s been both a blessing and a little isolating. Some days feel like Groundhog Day… same routine, same paint clothes, same studio 🖼️😅. And then the moment the brush hits the canvas, everything shifts. The world opens up again. ✨

I’m not sure I’ve ever had this kind of uninterrupted time to dedicate to my work. And I don’t know how else to say this except… I feel it in my gut ❤️🙏❤️. This show feels important. Not in a big flashy way, but in a deep, soul-level way. Like something I’ve been moving toward my whole life without fully realizing it.

The days are long. Some days I’m flying high, proud of every mark I made 💛. And the next day I’m doubting everything. But I’m learning to be gentle with myself — to let the paintings unfold instead of forcing them into existence. 🌿

Because when they do arrive… when a painting turns that mysterious corner and suddenly becomes something I’ve been trying to reach for years… it’s powerful. It feels like, “Oh. This. This is the thing I’ve been trying to say since the moment I knew I wanted to be an artist.”

And then I start the next piece… and I’m right back in the struggle. 😅
But each one has its own personality, its own timing, its own way of being born. I’m learning to trust the ebb and flow — the joy, the doubt, the magic, the mess — all of it. ✨

When I started this project, I had myself on a rigid timeline. X number of paintings by X date.
I’ve let that go.
Now I’m letting each piece take the time it needs, and in return… I’m creating work that feels honest and brave — pieces I didn’t even know I had in me until now. 💗🎨

So thank you for being patient with me while I’ve been quieter on here. I’m realizing how easily the smallest distraction can knock me out of my groove right now — and how important rest is, too. It’s a fine line. 🌙

But I’m here. I’m working. I’m grateful.
And I can’t wait to share more of this journey with you soon. 🌸✨💛

Dropped off new work at @bennettgalleriesnashville and the gallery looks fabulous. ✨ It was so great meeting Saul and seeing the space all dressed up for the season.
The best guy in the world snapped this quick photo… and let’s all agree he should not quit his day job to become a photographer. 😆📸 (Bless him for trying.)

The trip was short but still fun to get away. We loved the Nashville flea market — even though the only thing I came home with was… Christmas cards. 😂🎄

My iPad decided to die a dramatic final death while we were there. A repair shop said it wasn’t fixable, but an angel stopped us outside and told us about a website that sells refurbished tech with a warranty. So now I have a “new-to-me” iPad that does everything differently, of course. 🙃📱

But… Bennett is loaded up with fresh new work, mostly smalls for the holidays, and we’re home safe.
Time to hit the studio again. 💗🎨

Dropped off new work at @bennettgalleriesnashville and the gallery looks fabulous. ✨ It was so great meeting Saul and seeing the space all dressed up for the season.
The best guy in the world snapped this quick photo… and let’s all agree he should not quit his day job to become a photographer. 😆📸 (Bless him for trying.)

The trip was short but still fun to get away. We loved the Nashville flea market — even though the only thing I came home with was… Christmas cards. 😂🎄

My iPad decided to die a dramatic final death while we were there. A repair shop said it wasn’t fixable, but an angel stopped us outside and told us about a website that sells refurbished tech with a warranty. So now I have a “new-to-me” iPad that does everything differently, of course. 🙃📱

But… Bennett is loaded up with fresh new work, mostly smalls for the holidays, and we’re home safe.
Time to hit the studio again. 💗🎨

There’s barely room to walk in my studio right now — it’s full of glorious messes, new paintings, and blank canvases. 🎨 I really should’ve planned for more storage space when I built it. 😅 Thankfully, @erikadanielleart and @loganipsum are coming to the rescue while I take a quick trip to celebrate the best guy in the world’s birthday 🎂 and our 36th anniversary (last month!) 💕 — and deliver new smalls to @bennettgalleriesnashville in Nashville. Not exactly a getaway, but these days we take what we can get. 🌸

I’ve been in the studio seven days a week lately, working hard on a big project that’s slated for February 14th — so if you’re thinking about a Valentine’s getaway, you might want to keep Fort Lauderdale in mind. 💘

I told one of my besties recently that I don’t know why, but I feel like I’m creating the most important work of my life right now. She asked me why, and I couldn’t explain it — it’s just a feeling ❤️🙏❤️. It’s uncomfortable and unknown and scary… and at the same time exciting, soul-knowing, and terrifying BUT in a good way. Exactly where I want to be. ✨

After everything I’ve lived through, I can’t imagine going back to autopilot. Life’s too short not to take chances. I need to make work that scares me a little and fills me up a lot. 💪🎨

Here’s a sneak peek of what I’ve been working on — and I can’t wait to share more soon. 💕 Be thinking about Fort Lauderdale for Valentine’s! 💘🌴

There’s barely room to walk in my studio right now — it’s full of glorious messes, new paintings, and blank canvases. 🎨 I really should’ve planned for more storage space when I built it. 😅 Thankfully, @erikadanielleart and @loganipsum are coming to the rescue while I take a quick trip to celebrate the best guy in the world’s birthday 🎂 and our 36th anniversary (last month!) 💕 — and deliver new smalls to @bennettgalleriesnashville in Nashville. Not exactly a getaway, but these days we take what we can get. 🌸

I’ve been in the studio seven days a week lately, working hard on a big project that’s slated for February 14th — so if you’re thinking about a Valentine’s getaway, you might want to keep Fort Lauderdale in mind. 💘

I told one of my besties recently that I don’t know why, but I feel like I’m creating the most important work of my life right now. She asked me why, and I couldn’t explain it — it’s just a feeling ❤️🙏❤️. It’s uncomfortable and unknown and scary… and at the same time exciting, soul-knowing, and terrifying BUT in a good way. Exactly where I want to be. ✨

After everything I’ve lived through, I can’t imagine going back to autopilot. Life’s too short not to take chances. I need to make work that scares me a little and fills me up a lot. 💪🎨

Here’s a sneak peek of what I’ve been working on — and I can’t wait to share more soon. 💕 Be thinking about Fort Lauderdale for Valentine’s! 💘🌴

Sometimes joy doesn’t arrive all at once—it tiptoes in quietly, filling the quiet spaces we’ve made room for. ✨
Happy Monday Everyone!😊

🖼 Where Joy Begins
📏 24 x 36 x 1.5”
🎨 Acrylic on canvas — multidirectional
📍 Available @dkcontemporarygallery

Sometimes joy doesn’t arrive all at once—it tiptoes in quietly, filling the quiet spaces we’ve made room for. ✨
Happy Monday Everyone!😊

🖼 Where Joy Begins
📏 24 x 36 x 1.5”
🎨 Acrylic on canvas — multidirectional
📍 Available @dkcontemporarygallery

The Happy Life Series 🌸✨
Even though I’ve been crazy busy in the studio working on some special new projects, life is good. The studio is slowly filling up with color and magic, and I’m really excited to start sharing it with all of you.🤗

Thank goodness for @erikadanielleart — the best assistant in the world — she’s keeping me sane through it all. 🙌 I even managed one outing this week that wasn’t a doctor’s appointment 🎉 …and squeezed in a little sewing time too. It’s the small things that make me happy — and painting every day, of course! 😂💕

🎨 “Happy Life Series”
Acrylic + mixed media on raw unprimed canvas
24 x 14 inches
Two sold 🙏 the rest available soon ✨

The Happy Life Series 🌸✨
Even though I’ve been crazy busy in the studio working on some special new projects, life is good. The studio is slowly filling up with color and magic, and I’m really excited to start sharing it with all of you.🤗

Thank goodness for @erikadanielleart — the best assistant in the world — she’s keeping me sane through it all. 🙌 I even managed one outing this week that wasn’t a doctor’s appointment 🎉 …and squeezed in a little sewing time too. It’s the small things that make me happy — and painting every day, of course! 😂💕

🎨 “Happy Life Series”
Acrylic + mixed media on raw unprimed canvas
24 x 14 inches
Two sold 🙏 the rest available soon ✨

Some things don’t need to be spoken to be felt.💫

��🖼️ "More Than Words Can Say"
🎨 acrylic on raw canvas
📏 42 x 56 in
@hillarywhitakergallery

Some things don’t need to be spoken to be felt.💫

🖼️ "More Than Words Can Say"
🎨 acrylic on raw canvas
📏 42 x 56 in
@hillarywhitakergallery

There are cobwebs in the corners, dust bunnies under the tables, and enough dog fur to knit a sweater. 🕸️🐇🐾 Between painting for a big project and doctor visits, I just can’t get to it all—and the guilt tries to creep in.

So I’m naming this what it is: a messy season. I’m giving myself a permission slip to let some things slide and keep showing up for what matters most. Forward is forward. Even slow. Even a little messy. Progress over perfection. Grace over guilt. One steady day at a time. ⏳💗

And with something special coming this Valentine’s… I’m showing up. 💘

There are cobwebs in the corners, dust bunnies under the tables, and enough dog fur to knit a sweater. 🕸️🐇🐾 Between painting for a big project and doctor visits, I just can’t get to it all—and the guilt tries to creep in.

So I’m naming this what it is: a messy season. I’m giving myself a permission slip to let some things slide and keep showing up for what matters most. Forward is forward. Even slow. Even a little messy. Progress over perfection. Grace over guilt. One steady day at a time. ⏳💗

And with something special coming this Valentine’s… I’m showing up. 💘

✨ In the stillness, we remember who we are. ✨

🖼️ Gift of the Stillness
📏 30 x 45 x 1.5”
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📍 @solanafineart

✨ In the stillness, we remember who we are. ✨

🖼️ Gift of the Stillness
📏 30 x 45 x 1.5”
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📍 @solanafineart

Hard at work on something new debuting Valentine’s weekend ❤️✨ It’s such an honor (and a dream come true!) that honestly, even with the long hours, it just feels like play. 🎨

This large-scale watercolor came from my No Limits Watercolor class 💦—a reminder of where so much started and my first love.

I did sneak out with the pups 🐾 for my matcha fix 🍵 (aka my crack 😂). No pup cups this time…string cheese all around instead. The best guy in the world has to practically drag me out of the studio every evening because I just don’t want to stop. But I can’t wait to share more soon! 💫

Hard at work on something new debuting Valentine’s weekend ❤️✨ It’s such an honor (and a dream come true!) that honestly, even with the long hours, it just feels like play. 🎨

This large-scale watercolor came from my No Limits Watercolor class 💦—a reminder of where so much started and my first love.

I did sneak out with the pups 🐾 for my matcha fix 🍵 (aka my crack 😂). No pup cups this time…string cheese all around instead. The best guy in the world has to practically drag me out of the studio every evening because I just don’t want to stop. But I can’t wait to share more soon! 💫

Sometimes the most powerful shift is simply choosing to let the light in 💫

🖼 Carried By Light I
🎨 acrylic and watercolor on watercolor paper
📏 22 x 30″
📍@hillarywhitakergallery ❤️

Sometimes the most powerful shift is simply choosing to let the light in 💫

🖼 Carried By Light I
🎨 acrylic and watercolor on watercolor paper
📏 22 x 30″
📍@hillarywhitakergallery ❤️

Some days the weight of it all feels heavier than others. Recently, I received a new medical diagnosis. Because of past radiation, there is a much greater risk with the treatment option. And after a lot of research, I believe the risk is simply too high for my comfort level at this time. 🙇‍♀️ It feels like one of those impossible choices—where either path has its own cost—and it’s been sitting in the back of my mind.

At the same time, I got the tentative dates for my big project. 🎉 It will probably land on Valentine’s Day ❤️—which makes it feel even more real, exciting (and a little terrifying). Deadlines always loom closer than they should, and my ideas can’t get to the canvas fast enough.

Still, I keep going—with a little extra matcha 🍵, the pups underfoot 🐾, and Cowboy Carter on repeat. 🎶 There’s a joy in the rhythm of showing up, even on the tough days.

It’s a strange mix of emotions—fear and gratitude, exhaustion and excitement—but this is life 🙏. This is real. And even on the hard days, I keep showing up in the studio, pouring everything I have into the work.

Because more than anything, I believe in the healing power of art. 🌿🎨✨

Some days the weight of it all feels heavier than others. Recently, I received a new medical diagnosis. Because of past radiation, there is a much greater risk with the treatment option. And after a lot of research, I believe the risk is simply too high for my comfort level at this time. 🙇‍♀️ It feels like one of those impossible choices—where either path has its own cost—and it’s been sitting in the back of my mind.

At the same time, I got the tentative dates for my big project. 🎉 It will probably land on Valentine’s Day ❤️—which makes it feel even more real, exciting (and a little terrifying). Deadlines always loom closer than they should, and my ideas can’t get to the canvas fast enough.

Still, I keep going—with a little extra matcha 🍵, the pups underfoot 🐾, and Cowboy Carter on repeat. 🎶 There’s a joy in the rhythm of showing up, even on the tough days.

It’s a strange mix of emotions—fear and gratitude, exhaustion and excitement—but this is life 🙏. This is real. And even on the hard days, I keep showing up in the studio, pouring everything I have into the work.

Because more than anything, I believe in the healing power of art. 🌿🎨✨

✨ Studio thoughts today…

I’ve been putting in long hours on something big — work that feels like some of the most important of my life. But as I scrolled through Instagram this morning, I’ll be honest… I felt a little down. Everyone else seemed to be out living their best glossy lives while my head was buried in the work, hair messy, and the only time I’ve left the house in over a week was a quick run to the farmer’s market.

Then I read a post from my online friend @scottolmstead9 , who was rejected because of his disability 💔 (send him some love, friends). It hit me — am I hiding in my studio because of mine? The truth is, conversation can be hard for me, eating in public with a feeding tube isn’t easy, and sometimes the world feels like too much.

Last night the best guy in the world and I dreamed about what we’d do if we won the lottery. He said travel ✈️, and I said build a couple more houses on our land 🏡. He laughed and said, “We’ll do that too! But first let’s go to Tokyo.” He knows Japan has always been my dream 🌸. Years ago, Spain was at the top of his list — all about the restaurants and the food. I know he shifted to Tokyo for me, always putting me first ❤️. And then it hit me… cancer didn’t just take away my ability to eat in restaurants, it took that joy from him too. And from my whole family. FU to cancer and disabilities for that one 👎.

But here’s the thing — I survived. I keep enduring. And I refuse to dwell. So this morning I pulled on my baggy paint-stained clothes, laughed remembering someone asked me this week if I’d ever print the stains on shirts and even coffee mugs 😂☕👕, gathered the pups 🐾, and walked back into my messy, magical life.

I’m not hiding. I’m working on the most important work of my career. And when I close that studio door, I’m surrounded by sunshine, stars, music, and flowers 🌞🌟🎶🌸. It feels like stepping into another world 🌙💫 — one that lifts me up, heals me, and reminds me why I’m here. I know the work will go out into the world and do the same. ❤️

✨ Studio thoughts today…

I’ve been putting in long hours on something big — work that feels like some of the most important of my life. But as I scrolled through Instagram this morning, I’ll be honest… I felt a little down. Everyone else seemed to be out living their best glossy lives while my head was buried in the work, hair messy, and the only time I’ve left the house in over a week was a quick run to the farmer’s market.

Then I read a post from my online friend @scottolmstead9 , who was rejected because of his disability 💔 (send him some love, friends). It hit me — am I hiding in my studio because of mine? The truth is, conversation can be hard for me, eating in public with a feeding tube isn’t easy, and sometimes the world feels like too much.

Last night the best guy in the world and I dreamed about what we’d do if we won the lottery. He said travel ✈️, and I said build a couple more houses on our land 🏡. He laughed and said, “We’ll do that too! But first let’s go to Tokyo.” He knows Japan has always been my dream 🌸. Years ago, Spain was at the top of his list — all about the restaurants and the food. I know he shifted to Tokyo for me, always putting me first ❤️. And then it hit me… cancer didn’t just take away my ability to eat in restaurants, it took that joy from him too. And from my whole family. FU to cancer and disabilities for that one 👎.

But here’s the thing — I survived. I keep enduring. And I refuse to dwell. So this morning I pulled on my baggy paint-stained clothes, laughed remembering someone asked me this week if I’d ever print the stains on shirts and even coffee mugs 😂☕👕, gathered the pups 🐾, and walked back into my messy, magical life.

I’m not hiding. I’m working on the most important work of my career. And when I close that studio door, I’m surrounded by sunshine, stars, music, and flowers 🌞🌟🎶🌸. It feels like stepping into another world 🌙💫 — one that lifts me up, heals me, and reminds me why I’m here. I know the work will go out into the world and do the same. ❤️

✨ Sometimes all we need is a moment of color, movement, and stillness to lift us ❤️

🖼️ Carried by Light I
🎨 acrylic and watercolor on watercolor paper
📏 22 x 30″
📍 @hillarywhitakergallery

✨ Sometimes all we need is a moment of color, movement, and stillness to lift us ❤️

🖼️ Carried by Light I
🎨 acrylic and watercolor on watercolor paper
📏 22 x 30″
📍 @hillarywhitakergallery

Not to be outshined by Rae and Zizi ✨🐾… today it’s all about Louie 💕. He’s been with me since 2014, right after my cancer treatment, and has been my little sidekick ever since. Now 11 years old, blind, and living with Cushing’s, he mostly moves through life in slow motion 🐢💤.

Louie loves a few good pets (on his terms 😉), isn’t a fan of too much cuddling, and still considers himself a top-notch watchdog 🐶🔔—even if he does bark at every bump in the night. Most of the time, you’ll find him snoozing happily in his cozy corner of the studio 🖌️🎨.

The sweetest part? Rae and Zizi gently nudge him along when it’s time to leave the studio, making sure he’s headed in the right direction 💕🐾. He may be slower now, but Louie is still loving life and bringing his own quirky charm to our days. Hoping for many more years with this little guy 🥹💛.

Not to be outshined by Rae and Zizi ✨🐾… today it’s all about Louie 💕. He’s been with me since 2014, right after my cancer treatment, and has been my little sidekick ever since. Now 11 years old, blind, and living with Cushing’s, he mostly moves through life in slow motion 🐢💤.

Louie loves a few good pets (on his terms 😉), isn’t a fan of too much cuddling, and still considers himself a top-notch watchdog 🐶🔔—even if he does bark at every bump in the night. Most of the time, you’ll find him snoozing happily in his cozy corner of the studio 🖌️🎨.

The sweetest part? Rae and Zizi gently nudge him along when it’s time to leave the studio, making sure he’s headed in the right direction 💕🐾. He may be slower now, but Louie is still loving life and bringing his own quirky charm to our days. Hoping for many more years with this little guy 🥹💛.

Yesterday was Zizi’s very first farmers market adventure on leash 🐾🎉 … and except for a little pulling (we’re working on it 😅), she did amazing! She let kids of all ages pet her, and handled it all without being overwhelmed. A huge change from the shy underweight stray we brought home in February. At home, she still runs like the wind 🌬️💨 circling back to me on my way to the studio — always keeping her eyes on “mom.” 🥰 Still a mama’s dog through and through. 😂

And because every good market outing deserves a treat… we came home with the most heavenly, made-with-love goodies from my dear friend @bel_home_bakery 🍞💖. Even with a feeding tube, I can feel the love in her art. ✨

New beginnings 🌱, little wins 🌸, and becoming who you were meant to be ✨… doesn’t get any better ❤️

🎨 The Beauty of Becoming
🖌 Mixed media on raw unprimed canvas
📏 42 x 16 x 1.5 inches
📍 Available

Yesterday was Zizi’s very first farmers market adventure on leash 🐾🎉 … and except for a little pulling (we’re working on it 😅), she did amazing! She let kids of all ages pet her, and handled it all without being overwhelmed. A huge change from the shy underweight stray we brought home in February. At home, she still runs like the wind 🌬️💨 circling back to me on my way to the studio — always keeping her eyes on “mom.” 🥰 Still a mama’s dog through and through. 😂

And because every good market outing deserves a treat… we came home with the most heavenly, made-with-love goodies from my dear friend @bel_home_bakery 🍞💖. Even with a feeding tube, I can feel the love in her art. ✨

New beginnings 🌱, little wins 🌸, and becoming who you were meant to be ✨… doesn’t get any better ❤️

🎨 The Beauty of Becoming
🖌 Mixed media on raw unprimed canvas
📏 42 x 16 x 1.5 inches
📍 Available

✨ “Some moments don’t ask for anything… except to be noticed.” ✨

Every day on my short walk to the studio, I’m amazed by the simple but magnificent beauty around me 🌿💗—if I can just tune out the cars whizzing by and lawn mowers buzzing nearby 😅. It’s all there, waiting… if I pause long enough to breathe it in. That’s what this painting is about. A reminder to stop. To notice. To feel held by the moment. 💫

🖼 Held by the Moment
📏 60 x 60 x 1.5″
🎨 Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
@hillarywhitakergallery

✨ “Some moments don’t ask for anything… except to be noticed.” ✨

Every day on my short walk to the studio, I’m amazed by the simple but magnificent beauty around me 🌿💗—if I can just tune out the cars whizzing by and lawn mowers buzzing nearby 😅. It’s all there, waiting… if I pause long enough to breathe it in. That’s what this painting is about. A reminder to stop. To notice. To feel held by the moment. 💫

🖼 Held by the Moment
📏 60 x 60 x 1.5″
🎨 Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
@hillarywhitakergallery

I’ve learned that time is the greatest gift. ⏳✨ After finishing a new body of work for @hillarywhitakergallery and the hospital project, you’d think I would’ve slowed down. But I couldn’t. I took a week to just play in the studio, but now it’s back to work. I don’t ever want to waste a minute of the time I’ve been given. Every time I paint, I’m reminded of that — because during treatment, it was all I could think about… being able to paint again. 🎨💛

There are some exciting things on the horizon — the beginning of next year holds something big for me, a dream come true ⭐ that I can’t quite share yet. But knowing it’s coming keeps me pushing forward, readying myself in every way. I feel good, I feel ready, I feel energized. 💪🖌

My life is simple, but it feels so complete. 🌿 Pups snoozing nearby (or barking at the horses 🐾😂), the best guy in the world by my side 💕, the chance to paint and sew each day, and the joy of creating something new. I am endlessly blessed to live this life — to keep chasing light, beauty, and truth, and to send it out into the world with love ❤️🖼🌎

I’ve learned that time is the greatest gift. ⏳✨ After finishing a new body of work for @hillarywhitakergallery and the hospital project, you’d think I would’ve slowed down. But I couldn’t. I took a week to just play in the studio, but now it’s back to work. I don’t ever want to waste a minute of the time I’ve been given. Every time I paint, I’m reminded of that — because during treatment, it was all I could think about… being able to paint again. 🎨💛

There are some exciting things on the horizon — the beginning of next year holds something big for me, a dream come true ⭐ that I can’t quite share yet. But knowing it’s coming keeps me pushing forward, readying myself in every way. I feel good, I feel ready, I feel energized. 💪🖌

My life is simple, but it feels so complete. 🌿 Pups snoozing nearby (or barking at the horses 🐾😂), the best guy in the world by my side 💕, the chance to paint and sew each day, and the joy of creating something new. I am endlessly blessed to live this life — to keep chasing light, beauty, and truth, and to send it out into the world with love ❤️🖼🌎

Some moments remind you just how precious it is to be fully present. Yesterday I had a hard but important conversation with a friend. I explained how much effort it takes for me to show up, speak, and truly be heard in group settings. I want to be there — not for small talk — but for real connection, caring, and kindness. And when that’s missing, it just doesn’t feel worth it to go. 🙁

It felt big to put that into words, and even bigger to honor myself by saying it out loud. ✨ Before cancer, I never would’ve been able to do that — I’d have been too afraid of hurting someone’s feelings and just kept quiet. But cancer stripped away that fear. 🌱 Now, I know life is too short not to speak your truth, and too beautiful not to live in it. 🌸

This painting, Held by the Moment, is a reminder of that. Of choosing presence, of finding courage in honesty, and of honoring what truly matters. The pups nailed it too — one perfectly content, the other just soaking it all in. 🐾💞 Sometimes that’s all we need.

🎨 Held By the Moment
🖌 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📏 60 x 60 x 1.5”
🏡 Available at @hillarywhitakergallery

Some moments remind you just how precious it is to be fully present. Yesterday I had a hard but important conversation with a friend. I explained how much effort it takes for me to show up, speak, and truly be heard in group settings. I want to be there — not for small talk — but for real connection, caring, and kindness. And when that’s missing, it just doesn’t feel worth it to go. 🙁

It felt big to put that into words, and even bigger to honor myself by saying it out loud. ✨ Before cancer, I never would’ve been able to do that — I’d have been too afraid of hurting someone’s feelings and just kept quiet. But cancer stripped away that fear. 🌱 Now, I know life is too short not to speak your truth, and too beautiful not to live in it. 🌸

This painting, Held by the Moment, is a reminder of that. Of choosing presence, of finding courage in honesty, and of honoring what truly matters. The pups nailed it too — one perfectly content, the other just soaking it all in. 🐾💞 Sometimes that’s all we need.

🎨 Held By the Moment
🖌 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📏 60 x 60 x 1.5”
🏡 Available at @hillarywhitakergallery

✨ “Hold on to the light. Even the smallest glimmer can guide you through the dark.” ✨

This is “A Light to Hold II” — the second in the series heading to its new home in the hospital 💖, all beautifully orchestrated by the team at @hillarywhitakergallery. Just like the others in this series, it works beautifully both vertically and horizontally. I’ve loved having it in the studio as inspiration, and I almost hated to see it leave. 🌈

🎨 “A Light to Hold II”
📏 22” x 30”
🖌 acrylic + watercolor on paper
🏥 @hillarywhitakergallery

✨ “Hold on to the light. Even the smallest glimmer can guide you through the dark.” ✨

This is “A Light to Hold II” — the second in the series heading to its new home in the hospital 💖, all beautifully orchestrated by the team at @hillarywhitakergallery. Just like the others in this series, it works beautifully both vertically and horizontally. I’ve loved having it in the studio as inspiration, and I almost hated to see it leave. 🌈

🎨 “A Light to Hold II”
📏 22” x 30”
🖌 acrylic + watercolor on paper
🏥 @hillarywhitakergallery

A few nights ago, I had my first nightmare in 11 years about not being understood when I tried to speak. In the dream, I kept explaining that I was speech impaired… but person after person just didn’t get it 😔. I woke up reminding myself over and over, It was just a dream. In real life, there’s almost always someone who understands me — or I write it down — but it made me extra grateful for those moments of connection.

Then, out of the blue, I received an email from someone who discovered my art at 4 a.m. and shared a deeply personal story. Her father also had tongue cancer and, like me, taught himself to speak again 💪. Reading her words and learning how she connected with my work reminded me why I do what I do. 💛

Last week, when I delivered 26 paintings to Florida, the gallery told me how many people travel from all over just to see my work ✨. Hearing that felt surreal and still amazes me.

Funny thing — only an hour into the long drive to Florida, all I could think about was wanting to be home 🏡🐾. And yesterday, back in my studio with the pups nearby, I realized… this isn’t just where I’m meant to be. It’s where I’ve always wanted to be. This is the real dream. 🎨💖

A few nights ago, I had my first nightmare in 11 years about not being understood when I tried to speak. In the dream, I kept explaining that I was speech impaired… but person after person just didn’t get it 😔. I woke up reminding myself over and over, It was just a dream. In real life, there’s almost always someone who understands me — or I write it down — but it made me extra grateful for those moments of connection.

Then, out of the blue, I received an email from someone who discovered my art at 4 a.m. and shared a deeply personal story. Her father also had tongue cancer and, like me, taught himself to speak again 💪. Reading her words and learning how she connected with my work reminded me why I do what I do. 💛

Last week, when I delivered 26 paintings to Florida, the gallery told me how many people travel from all over just to see my work ✨. Hearing that felt surreal and still amazes me.

Funny thing — only an hour into the long drive to Florida, all I could think about was wanting to be home 🏡🐾. And yesterday, back in my studio with the pups nearby, I realized… this isn’t just where I’m meant to be. It’s where I’ve always wanted to be. This is the real dream. 🎨💖

✨ “In the midst of it all, there’s always a light worth holding onto.” ✨

This one just headed to @hillarywhitakergallery for the new hospital ❤️. It’s been on display in my studio through all the weeks of painting for my deadlines, and I’ve grown so attached to it — the series may very well be one of my favorites ever 😊. I’ll truly miss seeing it every day, but I know its imprint will find its way into many more paintings 🎨. @hillarywhitakergallery plans to display it horizontally, and I love that it works beautifully either way 🌊.

🖌 “A Light to Hold I”
📏 22” x 30”
🎨 Acrylic & watercolor on paper
💫🏥 For the new hospital in FL

✨ “In the midst of it all, there’s always a light worth holding onto.” ✨

This one just headed to @hillarywhitakergallery for the new hospital ❤️. It’s been on display in my studio through all the weeks of painting for my deadlines, and I’ve grown so attached to it — the series may very well be one of my favorites ever 😊. I’ll truly miss seeing it every day, but I know its imprint will find its way into many more paintings 🎨. @hillarywhitakergallery plans to display it horizontally, and I love that it works beautifully either way 🌊.

🖌 “A Light to Hold I”
📏 22” x 30”
🎨 Acrylic & watercolor on paper
💫🏥 For the new hospital in FL

Hi friends 💛 It’s been a bit quiet over here, but I promise I haven’t disappeared. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind 🌪 — I just wrapped up 26 paintings for @hillarywhitakergallery , a mix of small & large for the gallery and the hospital, all while juggling a slew of doctor appointments and tests 🩺. I’ve been dealing with breathing and coughing issues 🫁, which turned out to be a small amount of fluid in my lungs caused by micro aspiration. Thankfully, I’m finally feeling better 🙌 thanks to a new antibiotic 💊.

This piece, Grace Becoming Light ✨, is one of the new works now available at @hillarywhitakergallery . I feel like it’s a reminder that even in seasons of exhaustion, grace has a way of slowly turning into light 🌤.

A huge thank you to @erikadanielleart (best assistant ever!)for swooping in to help me wrap things up 🌟, and to the best guy in the world ❤️ for doing all the driving to Florida and back in a giant van 🚐 to make it happen. I truly couldn’t have done it without them.

And to @loganipsum — thank you for holding down the fort with the pups 🐶… even though, funny story, she misunderstood my feeding instructions (blame “Wyanne Speak” 😉) and fed them a week’s worth of food in 2 days! 😂. We came home to three very happy, very round “piggies” 🐷🐾 who now think Logan should be their permanent dog sitter.

I’m so ready to get back in the studio next week 🎨 and start sharing more of this new body of work with you. After weeks of deadlines, exhaustion, and figuring out what was going on with my lungs, it feels good to finally say I’ve caught my breath — in more ways than one 💗.

🖼: Grace Becoming Light
🎨: Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📏: 40 x 40 x 1.5 inches
📍: Available @hillarywhitakergallery 🎨💐

Hi friends 💛 It’s been a bit quiet over here, but I promise I haven’t disappeared. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind 🌪 — I just wrapped up 26 paintings for @hillarywhitakergallery , a mix of small & large for the gallery and the hospital, all while juggling a slew of doctor appointments and tests 🩺. I’ve been dealing with breathing and coughing issues 🫁, which turned out to be a small amount of fluid in my lungs caused by micro aspiration. Thankfully, I’m finally feeling better 🙌 thanks to a new antibiotic 💊.

This piece, Grace Becoming Light ✨, is one of the new works now available at @hillarywhitakergallery . I feel like it’s a reminder that even in seasons of exhaustion, grace has a way of slowly turning into light 🌤.

A huge thank you to @erikadanielleart (best assistant ever!)for swooping in to help me wrap things up 🌟, and to the best guy in the world ❤️ for doing all the driving to Florida and back in a giant van 🚐 to make it happen. I truly couldn’t have done it without them.

And to @loganipsum — thank you for holding down the fort with the pups 🐶… even though, funny story, she misunderstood my feeding instructions (blame “Wyanne Speak” 😉) and fed them a week’s worth of food in 2 days! 😂. We came home to three very happy, very round “piggies” 🐷🐾 who now think Logan should be their permanent dog sitter.

I’m so ready to get back in the studio next week 🎨 and start sharing more of this new body of work with you. After weeks of deadlines, exhaustion, and figuring out what was going on with my lungs, it feels good to finally say I’ve caught my breath — in more ways than one 💗.

🖼: Grace Becoming Light
🎨: Acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
📏: 40 x 40 x 1.5 inches
📍: Available @hillarywhitakergallery 🎨💐

Rae and Zizi are starting to wonder if the deadlines will ever end… 🐾
But we’re almost there, and that painting behind them?
A sneak peek of a finished piece from a whole new body of work I’m working on! 🎨✨
#dogdaysareover (soon lol)

Rae and Zizi are starting to wonder if the deadlines will ever end… 🐾
But we’re almost there, and that painting behind them?
A sneak peek of a finished piece from a whole new body of work I’m working on! 🎨✨
#dogdaysareover (soon lol)

This one started as a leftover scrap…now it’s turning into something kinda magical. ✨ We buy raw canvas in big rolls, and when we (okay, let’s be real—@erikadanielleart 😆) stretches it, we sometimes end up with quirky cutoffs. They usually become paint testers or shelf protectors, but every now and then…a painting starts whispering. I listened. So here we go! 🌈👟

This one started as a leftover scrap…now it’s turning into something kinda magical. ✨ We buy raw canvas in big rolls, and when we (okay, let’s be real—@erikadanielleart 😆) stretches it, we sometimes end up with quirky cutoffs. They usually become paint testers or shelf protectors, but every now and then…a painting starts whispering. I listened. So here we go! 🌈👟

Sometimes the second painting in a commission ends up being just as meaningful as the first. 💙 This is “Graceful Strength” — the sister painting to “Graceful Power” — created as part of a special commission through @hillarywhitakergallery for a new healthcare facility opening soon in Florida. 💫
⁠
As with most commissions, I paint two different options unless something highly specific is requested. I’m not sure which one they’ll choose yet… maybe they should get both 💡😊

🖼 “Graceful Strength”
📐 48” x 48”
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
💖 @hillarywhitakergallery

Sometimes the second painting in a commission ends up being just as meaningful as the first. 💙 This is “Graceful Strength” — the sister painting to “Graceful Power” — created as part of a special commission through @hillarywhitakergallery for a new healthcare facility opening soon in Florida. 💫
⁠
As with most commissions, I paint two different options unless something highly specific is requested. I’m not sure which one they’ll choose yet… maybe they should get both 💡😊

🖼 “Graceful Strength”
📐 48” x 48”
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
💖 @hillarywhitakergallery

Coming down the home stretch on deadlines, commissions and a whole new body of work… even the puppos are getting excited! 🐾🎉 The energy in the studio is electric (and a little bit chaotic) — but this is my kind of magic. ✨ Final push! I got this! 💪🎨💕

Coming down the home stretch on deadlines, commissions and a whole new body of work… even the puppos are getting excited! 🐾🎉 The energy in the studio is electric (and a little bit chaotic) — but this is my kind of magic. ✨ Final push! I got this! 💪🎨💕

“She was powerful not because she wasn’t scared, but because she went on so strongly, despite the fear.” — Atticus 💙🌊✨

This is one of two commissions through @hillarywhitakergallery for the new healthcare facility opening in Florida 🌴
As with most commissions, I do two different paintings for the client to choose between — unless they’re wanting something very specific.
This one is called “Graceful Power” 💫
I’m not sure if it’s the one they will go with, but I’m super happy with it… and with its sister painting that I’ll post soon! 🎨🌈

“Graceful Power”
📐 48 x 48 in
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
💖✨ @hillarywhitakergallery

“She was powerful not because she wasn’t scared, but because she went on so strongly, despite the fear.” — Atticus 💙🌊✨

This is one of two commissions through @hillarywhitakergallery for the new healthcare facility opening in Florida 🌴
As with most commissions, I do two different paintings for the client to choose between — unless they’re wanting something very specific.
This one is called “Graceful Power” 💫
I’m not sure if it’s the one they will go with, but I’m super happy with it… and with its sister painting that I’ll post soon! 🎨🌈

“Graceful Power”
📐 48 x 48 in
🎨 acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
💖✨ @hillarywhitakergallery

One from the archives… and still one of my favorites. 💫
Coming down the home stretch on deadlines 😅 and I can’t wait to post more soon. Time to hit the studio again! 🎨✨

One from the archives… and still one of my favorites. 💫
Coming down the home stretch on deadlines 😅 and I can’t wait to post more soon. Time to hit the studio again! 🎨✨

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” — Dalai Lama ✨💛

"Kindness" is headed to its home in a new healthcare facility in Florida 🌿 I hope it brings a little joy or comfort to everyone who passes by ☮️

Big thanks to @hillarywhitakergallery for making this placement happen 🙏💕

"Kindness"
48 x 48
acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
SOLD 💖

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” — Dalai Lama ✨💛

"Kindness" is headed to its home in a new healthcare facility in Florida 🌿 I hope it brings a little joy or comfort to everyone who passes by ☮️

Big thanks to @hillarywhitakergallery for making this placement happen 🙏💕

"Kindness"
48 x 48
acrylic on raw unprimed canvas
SOLD 💖

“The studio’s a mess, commissions are flying, and I haven’t posted in ages… but that’s just real life right
now. So many great things happening! 🎨💥 One painting at a time, and lots of matcha 🍵 and pup lovin’ 🐾 breaks in between.”

“The studio’s a mess, commissions are flying, and I haven’t posted in ages… but that’s just real life right
now. So many great things happening! 🎨💥 One painting at a time, and lots of matcha 🍵 and pup lovin’ 🐾 breaks in between.”

Just another day at the office 🎨👩‍🎨 I’ll never understand those artists who paint in nice clothes 👗 (or no clothes at all 😳😂). I have paint clothes or super nice (or at least I think so 😆) clothes—no in between!

This is me on a typical day looking like a hot mess 😅💥 Jewelry? 💎✨ Pretty much always. Another story for another day!

Back to work… lots of deadlines calling ⏰🖌️💫

Just another day at the office 🎨👩‍🎨 I’ll never understand those artists who paint in nice clothes 👗 (or no clothes at all 😳😂). I have paint clothes or super nice (or at least I think so 😆) clothes—no in between!

This is me on a typical day looking like a hot mess 😅💥 Jewelry? 💎✨ Pretty much always. Another story for another day!

Back to work… lots of deadlines calling ⏰🖌️💫

Throwback to what was supposed to be a dreamy painting trip to the Bahamas in 2021. I had packed up my priciest raw Belgian linen, determined to create something beautiful by the sea. But the universe had other plans… Rain, ants, and more mosquitos than I thought possible (I’m semi-allergic 😬) made it feel more like a disaster than a dream.

I did sneak in a little paddleboarding—something I really, really wasn’t supposed to do with a feeding tube. But I was careful. And the crystal-clear water, filled with fish, made it 100% worth it. 🐠🌊 For someone who keeps a dozen aquariums at home, it was an unforgettable treat.

When I got home, I tucked the canvas away, convinced it was ruined. Months later in 2022, I unrolled it and realized the rain had left the most beautiful staining. I built the entire painting around that accidental magic.

Sometimes what seems like a mess is actually the beginning of magic. ✨

Japanese Vases
acrylic + pigments on raw unprimed Belgian linen
60 x 72 in
SOLD 🩵 thank you @dkcontemporarygallery

Throwback to what was supposed to be a dreamy painting trip to the Bahamas in 2021. I had packed up my priciest raw Belgian linen, determined to create something beautiful by the sea. But the universe had other plans… Rain, ants, and more mosquitos than I thought possible (I’m semi-allergic 😬) made it feel more like a disaster than a dream.

I did sneak in a little paddleboarding—something I really, really wasn’t supposed to do with a feeding tube. But I was careful. And the crystal-clear water, filled with fish, made it 100% worth it. 🐠🌊 For someone who keeps a dozen aquariums at home, it was an unforgettable treat.

When I got home, I tucked the canvas away, convinced it was ruined. Months later in 2022, I unrolled it and realized the rain had left the most beautiful staining. I built the entire painting around that accidental magic.

Sometimes what seems like a mess is actually the beginning of magic. ✨

Japanese Vases
acrylic + pigments on raw unprimed Belgian linen
60 x 72 in
SOLD 🩵 thank you @dkcontemporarygallery

The love and support from my recent post about going out alone with a speech impairment truly meant the world to me 💕💬

I’ve read every comment, and one from @johnstone_cathy really stayed with me. She wrote:
“For those who wonder if their kindness means anything, Wyanne’s journey will confirm that kindness and spreading your love means everything.”
And wow… it really does. 💖

Yesterday, I ventured out to a couple of vintage markets hunting for old textiles 🧵 (only because the most fabulous assistant in the world @erikadanielleart was making the messy studio magical again. Couldn’t do it without her! ❤️). At both places, the people behind the checkout recognized that I had a speech impairment—and instead of making assumptions, they responded with kindness and engaged in conversation with me 😲. It just made my day brighter… and I carried that light back into the studio today.

It’s funny how little moments like that—small gestures, big heart—can shift the whole rhythm of a day ✨. And they always show up in my paintings too… little echoes of love, courage, and connection.

This piece, What Stays With Us, is one of my favorites. I almost kept it. But something told me it needed to go out into the world. So I’m sending it with love—hoping it carries a little of the same warmth and understanding that has been shown to me 🌸💙

🖼 What Stays With Us
Mixed media on raw canvas
44 x 44 inches
Available through @hillarywhitakergallery ❤️

The love and support from my recent post about going out alone with a speech impairment truly meant the world to me 💕💬

I’ve read every comment, and one from @johnstone_cathy really stayed with me. She wrote:
“For those who wonder if their kindness means anything, Wyanne’s journey will confirm that kindness and spreading your love means everything.”
And wow… it really does. 💖

Yesterday, I ventured out to a couple of vintage markets hunting for old textiles 🧵 (only because the most fabulous assistant in the world @erikadanielleart was making the messy studio magical again. Couldn’t do it without her! ❤️). At both places, the people behind the checkout recognized that I had a speech impairment—and instead of making assumptions, they responded with kindness and engaged in conversation with me 😲. It just made my day brighter… and I carried that light back into the studio today.

It’s funny how little moments like that—small gestures, big heart—can shift the whole rhythm of a day ✨. And they always show up in my paintings too… little echoes of love, courage, and connection.

This piece, What Stays With Us, is one of my favorites. I almost kept it. But something told me it needed to go out into the world. So I’m sending it with love—hoping it carries a little of the same warmth and understanding that has been shown to me 🌸💙

🖼 What Stays With Us
Mixed media on raw canvas
44 x 44 inches
Available through @hillarywhitakergallery ❤️

“Joy is not made to be a crumb.” — Mary Oliver 🌸✨
Let joy bloom wildly—wherever it wants to grow 💕🌿

“Joy Blooms II”
🎨 Mixed media on paper
📏 16” x 16”
📍 Available at @hillarywhitakergallery

Joy Blooms I,III and IV have already sold but I'm working on more of this series. They look so good in acrylic plexi frames!!! 🎨

“Joy is not made to be a crumb.” — Mary Oliver 🌸✨
Let joy bloom wildly—wherever it wants to grow 💕🌿

“Joy Blooms II”
🎨 Mixed media on paper
📏 16” x 16”
📍 Available at @hillarywhitakergallery

Joy Blooms I,III and IV have already sold but I'm working on more of this series. They look so good in acrylic plexi frames!!! 🎨

Sometimes I wonder if a lot of us are retreating a little more these days. After everything the world has thrown at us—and after how much COVID changed the way we move through life—I get it.

I’ve realized lately how easy it is for me to stay tucked into the comfort and beauty of my studio. It’s peaceful. It’s safe. And honestly—it’s where I feel most like me.

But once a week, I’ve been gently nudging myself to go out—alone. Just me.
And that part matters, because it’s not always easy.

Nothing major… a stop at the farmers market 🍓, the pet store 🐾, the little aquarium shop 🐠… and omg 😆 we finally got a Marshalls in our tiny town! 🛍️🎉 lol

It still takes a bit of courage. My speech can throw people off. But I’m used to it now. I know who I am—and I know how to keep showing up.

And when I come across someone kind, who takes the time to understand me—it fills me all the way up 💗 I want to hug them, or do a happy dance right there in the aisle.

That’s all it takes to carry me back into the studio—to keep doing what I love in the best way I know how 🎨

Sometimes I wonder if a lot of us are retreating a little more these days. After everything the world has thrown at us—and after how much COVID changed the way we move through life—I get it.

I’ve realized lately how easy it is for me to stay tucked into the comfort and beauty of my studio. It’s peaceful. It’s safe. And honestly—it’s where I feel most like me.

But once a week, I’ve been gently nudging myself to go out—alone. Just me.
And that part matters, because it’s not always easy.

Nothing major… a stop at the farmers market 🍓, the pet store 🐾, the little aquarium shop 🐠… and omg 😆 we finally got a Marshalls in our tiny town! 🛍️🎉 lol

It still takes a bit of courage. My speech can throw people off. But I’m used to it now. I know who I am—and I know how to keep showing up.

And when I come across someone kind, who takes the time to understand me—it fills me all the way up 💗 I want to hug them, or do a happy dance right there in the aisle.

That’s all it takes to carry me back into the studio—to keep doing what I love in the best way I know how 🎨

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