On measuring a year

It's that time of year—the time when I frantically try to finish paintings and reflect on my creative life over the past 12 months. I'm not sure why, but I often feel as though I need to finish a certain number of paintings in a year, as if there's a set amount required to call myself a "real artist."

On some level, I appreciate the self-imposed pressure. It keeps me making art and doing what I love. On another level, I question why I feel the need to quantify my artist-ness with a certain amount of work. What are the negative repercussions of only making one painting a year? What are the positives of making 100? And what happens in between all of that making or not-making? I think about how much time I spend looking at my work, reflecting, writing, and playing with other materials. Shouldn't that count for something?

Beyond the Count

I feel strongly that the thing that matters most is being aware and intentional with our time, and trying our best to prioritize the things that are important to us. For me, that's painting—but it's also reading, writing, meditation, hiking, traveling, and exploring with my partner and friends.

Unfortunately, like a lot of folks, I find myself struggling to do the things I love. Why? Because life moves so fast. We work, we do chores, we run errands, we cook for ourselves, we exercise, we scroll too much, and before you know it, it's the end of the week, month, or year.

We all have our obligations and we definitely need time for relaxation. However, at least for me, I want to build up a stronger awareness of how I'm spending my time in favor of doing more of what I want.

the importance of sharing

I think that's why I started sharing these monthly reflections. I want to bring awareness to all the complexities of life and the things we face as humans and artists. I want to share more of the in-between—more than just "the finished product." I want to do it because I know it's just as valuable, though, I know it holds a different kind of weight. I enjoy doing it because it brings more intentionality to my life. It allows me to slow down and share what's important to me.

The Numbers (For What They're Worth)

All that being said, in addition to the writing I've done, sketchbook pages I've filled, collages, colored pencil drawings, and painting studies I've made, I've finished 7 paintings so far this year. At the time of writing this, I still have one more day before a new year begins and I have a studio full of wet in-progress paintings. Who knows—maybe I'll get a few more done this year. If not, they'll be there waiting for me in 2026.

I'll be updating the 2025 section of my website in the next week or so with so much gratitude for what I was able to accomplish this year, either way.

Thanks so much,

Kevin