I spent the last two weeks of January in Southern California. Time with family in the warm sunshine was a much needed refreshing break full of inspiration. I intentionally spent time each day riding a bike to the beach, exploring nature, and I even managed to do a bit of work. I can't help but paint when I'm inspired by a beautiful landscape, even though I had zero intention of painting any new scenes from Southern California.

I also took a few larger coastal prints with me, framed them in solid oak, and photographed them in my sister's beautiful home (seen above) before they went off to be sold through Bliss101 in Encinitas. Selling larger prints through retail stores is an exciting new area of my business that I'm exploring this year. My prints look especially beautiful in sizes 24x36" and up. I hope this will be a successful addition to my work, while alleviating the pressure to constantly paint new pieces.

2025 has started with some very difficult things to navigate as a small business owner. Being a creative entrepreneur always has its challenges, but when faced with drastic changes that affect the way I operate my business, it can be difficult to know how to pivot. At the end of the day my passion is painting, but I've also got bills to pay, and three mouths to feed.

I think these experiences provide us with the ever-needed reminder to support our local small businesses. It's been so encouraging to see Canadian's step up to support Canadian business and the economy. Our communities are so much richer with the vibrant businesses that support real people and families, that add value to our communities.

What to look forward to in February:

2025 commissions are open with updated pricing and sizes. I am currently working on a 24x36" watercolour mountain commission that I'm very excited about! If you'd like to know more about my commission process, or be added to my commission schedule, please click the link HERE, or reach out if you have any questions.

February will include my annual seconds sale. I'm in the process of gathering and organizing all of the prints that have accumulated in my studio that have small imperfections so I can offer them to you at a substantial discount. This is perfect for you if you're a person that doesn't mind smudges, faint lines, or irregular colours or sizes.

I will also be retiring a few prints on my website. I haven't nailed down all of the details, so be sure to stay tuned for more information.

There will be a price increase on originals and prints on March 1st. This is something I've been meaning to do for a while, something that will help elevate my work to gallery standards and improve the sustainability of my business. If there is a piece that you've had your eye on for a while, this month is the chance to purchase before the price increase.

I have recently added some coastal originals to my website that were previously available through another retailer. Be sure to check out everything that's available at the links below.

February’s Featured Original

“Winter’s Quiet Hush”

My family spends a day in Canmore just about every month, even in the winter. On a particularly cold day in winter we purchased a sled from Canadian Tire and found the nearest sledding hill. The view of The Three Sisters was breathtaking! I couldn't help but be a little jealous of the kids who get to live with that view in their backyards.

Each of these small mountain sketches hold specific memories, like vintage postcards sent from time spent in the Canadian Rockies, these gouache paintings hold a sense of nostalgia that can only be found in the peace of the mountains. What began as small sketches, that I promised myself would never be sold, became beautiful framed originals.

“Winter’s Quiet Hush” - Original Gouache Painting

Collect Winter's Quiet Hush

February’s Featured Print

“Pyramid Lake”

This print was created to reflect the blissful peace felt tucked away in the security of Jasper National Park and the majesty of Pyramid Mountain. A road trip is the best way to discover new beautiful places. Planning every detail, while getting lost in the peace and awe of vast, endless serenity. Time with family. Time in Nature. Creating sweet, core memories to savour forever. Alberta is such a breath of fresh air.

Art has a way of capturing a place in time, transporting you to a specific location, offering reverence to nature's beauty, and bringing nature's abundant peace and calm into your personal sanctuary.

Collect Pyramid Lake Print

I hope you find some peace in the quiet rest of winter. Thank you for allowing me the space and ability to support my family with the things I create.

I am so grateful for your abundant support!

xo, Rebecca