2024 ~ A YEAR-END RECAP OF ARTISTIC NEWS …
by Sherry / December 14, 2024 / ART, FROM MY BRUSHSTROKES TO EVERYONE…
Artscapes By Sherry Hayes AN ARTIST’S RECAP
2024 ~ A Year Filled With New Art, Writings, Events & More!
From Conception To Completion ~ 2024 Art In Motion
Reflecting On This Past Year…
It is difficult to believe that a year has come and gone as if in the blink of an eye. The question on the minds of many surely is… Where did the year go? It seems there is never enough time to accomplish everything one hopes to over twelve months.
Nonetheless, the year is coming to a close and it’s time to take stock of everything that took place in this artist’s life throughout 2024. Goals made and met (or not); expectations and accomplishments; triumphs and setbacks. Whatever the outcome ~ as an artist, it is always important to remember and appreciate the power of paint, brushes and canvas. And the never-ending inspiration provided by the world that surrounds us. This planet truly is an artist’s treasure trove of possibilities!
Some inspiring sights from our local scenic drives throughout the year
And now…
>>> New Paintings For 2024 <<<
I am pleased to have completed a few paintings this year as I carved out some time amidst my other business and personal commitments. While I did not complete the amount I had hoped for, I am satisfied that progress was made this past year. As my paintings are generally quite detailed, it is not unusual for me to take my time as I move through the process of research, subject matter, settings or backgrounds and finally the general concept that I want to portray in each of my works.
It is especially important to me that each piece I envision and paint has a true story to tell. Perhaps this is why I invest so much time, effort and emotion into every painting. Perhaps it’s Nature asking me to do so. Perhaps it is for all the reasons I note. But, whatever the reason – or motivation, I am grateful to have the opportunity to create and put forth my work.
>>> About One Special Painting <<<
While I enjoy each piece that I develop and complete, one in particular stood out for me this year. It was a unique opportunity to create a painting that held special meaning for me. Adding to my Endangered Species ‘Darkness’ series this year, this recently released painting is dedicated to the creatures within but also to Dr. David Suzuki for his lifetime of exceptional achievements in creating awareness of Canada’s environment, ecosystems and the vital role of Nature on this planet.
Dr. Suzuki kindly provided me with input and feedback which assisted me in determining my subject matter and setting. Upon review of my painting, I was very pleased with his positive comments. It was a pleasure to create a dedicated print of this painting for David. I am grateful for his kind letter of appreciation for this print and my chosen subjects and setting.
Pictured Above: ‘Shadows in the Brush Lands’
Inset: Dr. David Suzuki with his dedicated print
>>> Additional New Paintings For 2024 <<<
Along with my dedicated painting, I also completed the following: (From top – left to right)
My ‘Darkness’ Series line:
‘On Fragile Wings’ featuring the Laura’s Clubtail Dragonfly
‘White Shadows of Darkness’ featuring the Eastern Flowering Dogwood
Plus ‘Darkness’ paintings nearing completion:
‘Fractured North’ featuring the Beluga Whale and northern melting sea ice
‘Fallen Treasures’ featuring the Shumard Oak and Five-lined Skink
My General Art line:
‘Timeless Devotion’ symbolizing three generations of women artists
Plus painting nearing completion:
‘Majestic’ featuring a black stallion (memories of having horses in my youth)
>>> Art Exhibition Participation In 2024 <<<
The following artwork has been on exhibition during various times throughout 2024: (Top left to bottom right)
● ‘On Fragile Wings’ ● ‘White Shadows of Darkness’ ● ‘Ethereal Beauty’ ● ‘Winged Warrior’●
● ‘Rubies in the Sun’ ● ‘Summer’s Splendour’ ● ‘Pink Ruffles’ ● ‘Time Forgotten’● ‘Timeless Devotion’●
>>> A New Intro Video For 2024 <<<
Always looking for creative outlets, I took on and developed a new project this past summer that was a little different but nonetheless, full of fun. It was a bit of an adventure as I created this short introductory video regarding my ‘Darkness’ series. A special thank you to Dennis for producing the background music and installing the video onto my website.
>>> Something New In 2024 For 2025 Release <<<
Many of you may not be aware that I have been putting pen to paper for most of my life creating writings that include short stories and poetry plus hundreds of newspaper and magazine articles. The latter is primarily related to landscaping and gardening, but also includes many stories covering species at risk and my related art. However, this past year found me working on a brand new project that took me in several uncharted directions. Nonetheless, the excitement and determination to design and develop this project kept me busy throughout the year as time permitted me to indulge in this new adventure.
COMING NEXT YEAR…
The ‘Saving Wild Canada’ Children’s Storybook Series will launch in 2025 beginning with stories that cover a few endangered species in and around the Niagara Escarpment. These full-colour books are being created for our younger generations. Designed to stimulate interest in Nature, wildlife and ecosystems, these easy-to-read storybooks will encourage younger minds to appreciate the value of fragile wild species and spaces in our own ‘backyards’ of Canada.
Watch for more details coming in the following weeks and through the early part of 2025!
A Few Additional Notes In Wrapping Up…
As 2024 winds down and a new year is just around the corner, it has been a pleasure to share my ‘artful’ experiences with all of you throughout the year and in this last post of 2024. While accomplishments may feel few on a day to day basis, I nonetheless, am pleased with progress made in many areas of my practice.
And as we all recap our own year, there is no doubt that each and every one of us had significant accomplishments throughout 2024. It is a time to look back and appreciate our progress and successes while we treasure all of the special moments that came our way through dedication, determination and hard work.
I hope that my personal journey has provided some inspiration for everyone, including fellow artists, Nature lovers and anyone enjoying the spirit of the outdoors. For those who have yet to explore the world of art or take in anything Nature related, I encourage you to find your own way to discover the beauty that is our wild Canada and the incredible possibilities and opportunities that it provides if we all just simply open our eyes.
Finally ~ To my supporters…
I would like to take this time to thank all who have supported my vision and work over this past year. Whether through acquisitions of my art and products; support of my wildlife donation program; encouragement to continue my quest of highlighting our natural world or my pursuit of all art subject matter, I greatly appreciate the kindness that all of you have shown me throughout my journey.
My special thanks and appreciation definitely go to Dennis. Without his support and certainly, his technical prowess, my blogs and website would not have gone live over this past and previous years. Job well done!
In Closing…
It is my sincere hope that every one of you has a wonderful winter season that is filled with many exciting adventures. For those who choose to partake in any holiday celebrations or activities, have a safe and special time.
My Best to Everyone for a Happy, Healthy, Exciting & Memory-Filled 2025!
A Heartfelt Thankyou to All & Have an Artful Day!
And As Always ~ My Warmest to Everyone,
Sherry ~ artscapesbysherry.ca