Hey there, Dreamers!
Happy Tuesday to you. It's the Summer Recap post, as I haven't been so active on the blog and have lots to catch you up on. I do want to change my consistency here, and appreciate your patience as I continue to navigate this space. Thanks for being here!
This summer, I've participated in 9 events and had a jam packed season compared to last year. Last year, I feel that I was developing myself and DDD as I played around with different ways to create t-shirts, offered many different products, and worked on my branding.
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This year, I've really been able to develop a set up/product system that's starting to work for me, and I just wanted to share as much art as possible with the community. I participated in many events and found many friends, connections, and supporters along the way.
I've had family help, my partner and dog help (my little model and companion!), and I've received supporters from so many angles.
I printed more clothing, more totes, and started craving more painting in my life again, too. I put together more prints when I haven't offered much in the past, and felt like I'm building a community of my own.
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While I've had such a magical summer, it also came with burn out. Before DDD, I came out of a depressive, miserable episode feeling so disconnected to myself and my art, and then came full circle with DDD as I just couldn't stop creating and doing pop ups - to the point of developing major fatigue. I was also working at an art school and had a blast, but I knew something needed to change.
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After vending with Head West Marketplace last month in early August, I was approached by a woman who works for an organization supporting POC entrepreneurs in developing and growing their businesses. I was invited to apply to their business incubator program, and I knew I had to go for it. This is what I've been waiting for. I was accepted, and the program began last week! I left the school, have jumped on my own ship, and am shooting for the stars.
I'm still processing it all and can't believe - but can believe - I'm here. I've had so much faith in myself over the years, but also gave into the voices in my head and believed deeply in my imposter syndrome. So to have some outside recognition and praise for my work has definitely been affirming and validating, but I also receive it now knowing my own worth already.
I don't think I would have received this if I didn't believe, if I didn't do the healing, and didn't take action for my responsibilities and desires. I'm grateful to have listened to myself and embarked on this journey.
This program may help me and Dream Drifter Designs dramatically change in/out, and I'm feeling inspired and hopeful for what's to come.
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If you haven't checked em out, I have lots of new prints, have some new Empower gear, and have a pop up event coming soon. Come say hey if you're around!
Check out my offerings here, & Check out the Calendar here.
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What are you looking forward to this fall? What is ready to go and come in? I'm wishing you the very best on your way, and thank you for stopping by.
Cheers to sharing the journey,
Amber.
Lost, 2018.