Miyajima I’ve just returned from Japan, and the experience left me both grounded and inspired. One of the most striking elements of my journey was encountering torii  gates—those iconic red gateways that mark sacred spaces. Whether rising dramatically in the midst of a bustling city or standing quietly in a rural forest path, these gates in Shinto belief represent a transition between the human and the divine. Shinto, an ancient Japanese religion, teaches deep respect for nature and forest spirits. These spirits, known as kami , are honored in everyday rituals, and their presence is felt in the trees, the wind, the mountains. As I stood before these gates, I felt a powerful shift—the boundary between the physical world and the spiritual one seemed to blur. The woods around me felt alive, as though unseen eyes were watching, inviting connection, asking for reverence. This deep reverence for the natural world brought me back to my time working with South American shamans. In their traditions too, honoring Mother Earth and all her beings is at the core of spiritual practice. Across cultures and continents, the message is clear: we are not separate from nature—we are part of it. And to truly see ourselves, we must slow down and listen. A Shinto monk once wrote, “Take a rest and find who you are.”  That line stayed with me throughout the trip. Watching locals bow to the gates, I was moved by the simplicity and power of that act—a moment of mindfulness and respect in the midst of daily life. This experience reminded me why outdoor painting—especially landscape art—is so essential to my own practice. When we paint in nature, we’re not just observing the world around us. We’re entering into a dialogue with it. Sitting still, tuning into birdsong, watching the light shift across leaves or water—these small moments of attention anchor us in the present. The longer you sit with the land, the more it reveals. Details emerge. Intuition awakens. Time expands. In our current moment—so full of noise, uncertainty, and overwhelm—these quiet rituals matter more than ever. Mindfulness through art isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s a way to come back to yourself and reconnect with what truly matters. If you’re feeling pulled in too many directions, I invite you to step outside, bring a sketchbook or some paints, and just sit. You don’t need to “create a masterpiece.” You just need to show up. Let the landscape speak. You might be surprised by what you hear.

I just returned from a winter trip to Colombia, and it felt like the exact reset my soul needed. In a world that constantly pulls us toward stress and overconsumption, Colombia offered something different—a way of life that feels more intentional, more in sync with nature, and deeply rooted in preserving the future rather than chasing immediate profit. One of the most profound realizations from my time there was how seamlessly circular and conscious the culture is. The indigenous communities, who hold parliamentary seats and send their children to study law, actively shape policies that protect the land—restoring forests, reviving ecosystems, and even redirecting river flows to sustain biodiversity. Their knowledge runs deep; they understand the hidden functions of every plant and see through the eyes of the creatures that share their world. I was especially struck by one example: they close national parks when jaguars need space to hunt, allowing nature to regulate itself without human interference. Stepping away from my daily routine and witnessing these ancient yet forward-thinking practices reminded me of my true purpose: to capture the earth’s fragile beauty through art, to highlight the delicate balance we are meant to protect, and to awaken others to the urgent need for climate consciousness. Every choice we make affects more than just us—it ripples across ecosystems, touching every living being on this planet. And yet, here I am, able to slow down, to paint, to document the staggering biodiversity of a world that still thrives— if only we choose to nurture it.

"Art is essential to our humanity. It helps us understand ourselves and connect with others."  – Omar, recent adult art class participant. What do you prioritize in life? The answer shifts—day to day, season to season. But beneath it all, there’s a deeper need: to be seen, to be heard. More importantly, to truly listen to yourself. In a world filled with distractions, taking time for introspection is rare, yet it’s essential for growth and self-discovery. Too much of the world is black and white—statements made without nuance, words spoken without feeling. Art, however, invites us into the gray areas, the spaces where emotion and experience intertwine. Marina Korenfeld’s Imaginary Travels  Exhibit, opening March 12th, is an exploration of love, loss, and the pursuit of balance. Her exquisitely delicate etchings act as portals into personal reflection, offering a chance to pause and connect with emotions often left unexplored. Her work doesn’t just tell a story—it invites you to step into your own. Art is more than just observation; it’s an active dialogue between the artist, the viewer, and the world around us. Whether admiring an etching or getting hands-on with creative exploration, art has the power to ground us in the present and foster deeper self-awareness. This month’s workshops focus on that process of discovery—March 5th’s drop-in printmaking session offers a tactile, meditative experience, while the six-week Color Theory intensive unlocks the hidden language of color. For younger artists, spring semester and summer camp provide space to create, problem-solve, and grow. Creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s how we make sense of ourselves. In a world that often moves too fast, art reminds us to slow down and see things differently.

Last night, I attended a breathwork session with over 20 participants. Each of us came seeking relaxation, self-reflection, and a deeper connection with ourselves. But for me, the experience was anything but relaxing—it was difficult to focus inward when I could feel the energy and hear the vocalizations of everyone around me. Their journeys felt so present, it was hard to separate their emotions from my own. When I turned to the instructor for advice, he asked me a question that caught me off guard: “Are you a caretaker?” “Yes,” I admitted. “Of course,” he said. “As a mother, you’re subconsciously programmed to tune into others’ needs and prioritize them over your own. The real challenge here is learning how to acknowledge others without letting their energy take over.” That insight struck me deeply. But as I reflected on it, I realized this isn’t just a caretaker’s struggle. We’re all conditioned—by society, family, and culture—to seek external validation, to prioritize the expectations and needs of others. It’s ingrained in us to please, to prove our worth, to measure our value through others’ eyes. The harder task is learning to sit with ourselves, to create space for our emotions without distraction. It’s scary to make that space—a vacuum of sorts—because we don’t know what might fill it. What truths will surface if we’re truly honest with ourselves? Art as a Pathway to Self-Discovery This same challenge presents itself in the world of art. Observing art can stir emotions we didn’t know were there, touching parts of us that words can’t reach. But creating art goes even further. It forces us to confront hidden dilemmas and navigate uncharted emotional territory. Art-making allows us to solve problems we didn’t know existed, building connections and solutions within new, unexpected boundaries. Art isn’t just about creating beauty—it’s about uncovering truths, finding healing, and expanding our understanding of ourselves and the world. Opportunities to Step Inward If you’re ready to explore this journey for yourself, we’ve got plenty of opportunities to step out of your comfort zone and into a creative space of self-discovery. Whether it’s through a class, workshop, or guided art experience, you’ll have the chance to turn inward and find what’s waiting to emerge. Check out our upcoming events and let’s embark on this journey together. Sometimes, the hardest work is the most rewarding.

I recently worked with an actress preparing for a role as an artist, and our conversations kept circling back to an unexpected parallel—the deep connection between performance and visual art. Both require a willingness to play, to let go, and to step into a world of possibilities. But more often than not, we hesitate. As children, we are fearless creators. We sing without shame, scribble without hesitation, and dance without wondering who’s watching. But as we grow, we start picking up unspoken rules. We become aware of judgment, expectations, and the invisible audience evaluating our every move. Bit by bit, we trade our boundless imagination for self-conscious restraint. How to Reclaim Your Creativity and Overcome Self-Doubt So how do we return to the kind of creative freedom we once knew? The answer lies in a simple phrase: Imagine you’re four years old again. You’ve just discovered how to make basic shapes. Start there. This one prompt is like a key, unlocking a part of ourselves that has been hidden away for years. It takes us back to a time when the world felt new when every scribble, brushstroke, and movement felt like an act of pure discovery. That’s the magic of uninhibited play—it reconnects us to our most authentic selves. And without that sense of wonder, what is the true purpose of our everyday life? Join Us for Creative Workshops That Inspire Playfulness This month, we’re focusing on ways to help you tap into that inner child. Whether through guided creative sessions, hands-on workshops, or simple moments of playful exploration, we invite you to step beyond hesitation and into the joy of creation. Because when we let go of judgment and embrace the act of play, we don’t just make art—we rediscover a part of ourselves that was never meant to be lost. Ready to reignite your creativity?  Join us for our upcoming workshops designed to help you unlock your inner artist and rediscover the power of play.

Looking back on the past month, it feels like everything I’ve done has revolved around three guiding principles: creativity, community, and sustainability. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the heart and soul of what drives me every day. From hosting intimate, transformative workshops to exploring new ways of engaging businesses, I’m constantly working to create a space where art becomes a catalyst for healing, connection, and mindful living. Creativity as a Pathway to Well-Being Over the years, I’ve come to see creativity as more than just an artistic outlet—it’s a lifeline. Whether through a paint-and-sip evening or a children’s workshop, my aim has always been to offer something deeper: a moment to breathe, to explore, and to find joy. Seeing my students with paint-streaked hands, sharing stories, and proudly showing off their work makes everything worth it. Lately, I’ve been rethinking the typical paint-and-sip format. Instead of just another social outing, I want to create something truly restorative. These sessions now include real artistic techniques and gentle mindfulness exercises. The goal? To send people home not only with a piece of art but with a calmer mind and a lighter heart. Building Community Through Art If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that art can bring people together in the most unexpected ways. I’m not just teaching classes—I’m building a community. Moms seeking creative escapes for themselves and their kids, professionals craving something different from their daily grind—they’ve all found a place here. This past season marked a big milestone for me: stepping into a new leadership role for the Downtown Chapter and hosting my first event. It was an experience that reinforced something I’ve always believed—creativity isn’t just personal, it’s communal. Moving forward, I’m eager to expand on this by hosting demo workshops for local businesses. I want to show them how art can break down barriers and foster real connection. Sustainability in Design Sustainability has always been a non-negotiable for me. It shows up in everything I do, from the designs in my boutique to the way I talk about mindful consumption. My capsule collections are designed to be versatile, timeless, and crafted with care—because fashion should be about feeling good, not fast trends. What excites me most is the chance to share these stories. When someone buys a piece from me, it’s not just a sale—it’s an opportunity to talk about why conscious production matters. This isn’t just about fashion; it’s about helping people rethink the way they consume. Expanding the Vision I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately about where I want to take things. I don’t just want to run a local business—I want to create something bigger. I dream of reaching more people through keynote talks, retreats, and partnerships with schools and businesses. I want to build a team of passionate teachers who can carry this mission into dozens of schools, touching lives in ways I can’t do alone. This month, I tried something new: hosting a demo workshop for corporate clients. After some trial and error with LinkedIn outreach, I realized that the best way to showcase what I do is to invite people in and let them experience it firsthand. It’s still early days, but I’m hopeful that this will open new doors. Art, Travel, and Inspiration On a more personal note, travel is a constant source of fuel for my creativity. With a trip to Colombia planned with my daughter and another to Japan during Sakura season, I’m already brimming with ideas. There’s something about immersing yourself in a different culture that shifts your perspective and sparks new ideas. I can’t wait to bring those experiences back and weave them into my work. Closing Thoughts This past month has been a whirlwind—full of challenges, new beginnings, and a whole lot of reflection. At the center of it all is my commitment to fostering creativity, sustainability, and connection. Whether it’s through an art workshop, a thoughtfully crafted piece of clothing, or a corporate event, my goal is always the same: to create spaces where people can reconnect—with themselves, with each other, and with the world around them. If any of this resonates with you—if you want to join a paint-and-sip session, explore a sustainable wardrobe, or bring creativity into your team’s next event—I’d love to hear from you. Together, let’s keep building a world where art inspires, connects, and heals.

January is a time for fresh starts and bold ideas. As I reflect on the start of 2025, I’m embracing this season of renewal by leaning into creativity, sustainability, and education. My work is about more than making art—it’s about helping others rediscover their creative spark and the transformative power of stepping outside their comfort zones. Workshop for graduating residents of Brigham & Women's Hospital The Power of Creative Challenges In my workshops and sessions, I see it time and again: people stepping up to a blank canvas, unsure of where to start. But it’s in these moments of vulnerability that something magical happens. Pushing through the fear of failure and trying something new brings a sense of accomplishment and growth. It’s not just about the finished piece—it’s about learning to embrace challenges, take risks, and trust the process. Creativity isn’t reserved for artists; it’s a mindset. Whether you’re a busy parent, a corporate professional, or someone looking to explore new hobbies, engaging in creative activities can unlock new ways of thinking and improve mental health. Bringing Creativity to Businesses Through Workshops and Talks This year, I’m focusing on expanding my reach by offering TED-style talks and interactive workshops to businesses. These events can be hosted at corporate offices or in my studio and are designed to help teams boost collaboration, mindfulness, and productivity. The combination of thought-provoking talks and hands-on creative exercises encourages participants to be vulnerable, break out of their routines and rediscover their innovative side. Creativity in the workplace isn’t just a trend—it’s a proven way to inspire problem-solving, reduce stress, and foster stronger connections within teams. Balancing Family, Art, and Adventure While growing my creative offerings, I’m also prioritizing time with my family. Our upcoming trips to Colombia and Japan promise to be full of discovery and inspiration. Exploring vibrant cities like Bogotá and experiencing Japan’s cherry blossom season remind me of the importance of staying open to new experiences. These adventures are not only a way to bond as a family but also an opportunity to recharge and draw inspiration from the world around us. My Vision for 2025: Making Creativity Accessible This year, my goal is to scale my offerings and make creativity accessible to more people. Whether through corporate workshops, introductive anti paint-and-sip sessions, or sustainable designs, I aim to create experiences that help individuals connect with their inner artist and embrace personal growth. By hosting virtual summits, partnering with schools, and leading creativity retreats, I want to inspire people to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the unknown. Art isn’t just a tool for expression—it’s a path to healing, connection, and self-discovery. Take the First Step Toward Creative Growth Whether you’re an individual looking to try something new or a business seeking to energize your team, there’s no better time to explore the benefits of creativity. Let’s make 2025 the year we all embrace bold moves, meaningful connections, and limitless possibilities.

Lately, I’ve been so caught up in my to-do lists—or rather, stressing over them—that I almost forgot how much I love this time of year. Fall is like nature’s grand finale, bursting with color, and that magical, cathartic rain of falling leaves always feels like a reminder to slow down. Those fleeting moments outdoors with the kids, soaking in the sunshine, are so precious, and it’s a shame to miss them. But even more rare is the time spent with myself, doing something that reignites my passion. Not self-care in the traditional sense, like a massage or a manicure, but an activity that truly wakes up my soul. I used to love jumping into piles of leaves as a child, feeling that satisfying crunch beneath my feet. Why don’t I give myself permission to do that anymore? Why do I need to be so serious all the time? The truth is, I don’t. I deserve joy every day—without guilt, without needing to explain it. Sitting on a park bench in the sun, or being silly outdoors, should never need justification. Yet, as a society, we’ve created so many unnecessary rules and attached stigma to breaking them. Playing hooky on a beautiful fall day shouldn’t be seen as an indulgence—it should be prescribed for our mental health. A statistic I came across recently really hit home. I attended an event at the Brookline Center for Mental Health, and they shared that over 75% of women report feeling burnt out—at work, at home, or both. That number is staggering. We need to do everything we can to bring it down. So, I’m taking a breath, and I’m reminding myself—and you—to enjoy the season and reconnect with what brings you joy. Art has always been a tool for healing, and we all deserve to make time for that—without needing anyone’s permission.