ArtStrokes -- Tracy Wall's Art Blog

We’ve had a series of snow storms here in Colorado last week. 

None of the snows were debilitating, a few days apart, each storm left 5 or 6" of snow. For the past few years our winters have been so warm and dry, so it was nice to have the snow and to feel the chill of the season. 

I got to thinking how good it was to actually feel winter. It’s more than just the cold temperatures: having snow somehow gives me a little peace and reassurance in the cycles of nature. 

Seems like nature needs to have a dormant time before the spring season. A time to rest, nourish, and reflect all that’s gone before. It’s also a time for roots to collect and nourish for the spurts of growth to come. 

I think my art has been going through the same process. With COVID rampant, and my other work-life still mostly shut down, my life was turned on its head.  For some time I was in a type of dormancy. Less art production and a bit of going deep to figure some things out. I think I, too, found benefit in shutting down and focusing on building a firm foundation in my roots.  

Dormancy is not a bad thing, just a natural part of the cycle.  We’re approaching two years now, and I think I’m finally starting to learn to balance on my head. 

(If introspective reading is your thing, try “Waking up in Winter” by Cheryl Richardson)

Been trying some new things in painting, and will post soon. These four miniatures happened last week to honor and celebrate our snow.  

Take the time to notice the trees at rest, birds in groups, and natures gardens gathering up power for the months ahead!

.