October 2026

Behind the Scenes

When the Art Begins to Make the Artist

I've been continuing my work on The King archetype, exploring the transformation from the Tyrant King (the power that seeks to dominate) to the Benevolent King (the power that seeks to serve). And once again, the creative process has become as much about my own transformation as it is about the artwork itself.

Although I had redesigned the King's robes and worked out a new pattern, I found myself reluctant to begin construction. Something was holding me back.

Then I remembered an insight that had come to me earlier: I needed to symbolically put on the King's robes myself.

Standing at the edge of my cutting table, I recalled that image of placing the robes upon my own shoulders, of stepping into my own power. And in that moment, something shifted. The hesitation dissolved, and I was able to begin.

What has emerged is dramatically different from my earlier attempt. The robes now carry a sense of movement, strength, and presence that had been missing before.

I'm reminded of a quote I love from Wen Redmond: "I make the art and the art makes me."

This is something I experience again and again. Through active imagination, dreams, meditation, and other ways of engaging with and embodying the creative process, the artwork becomes more than something I'm making. It becomes a conversation, revealing insights that my conscious mind alone might never have discovered.

Perhaps this is one of the great mysteries of creating art: Sometimes we must step into what we are trying to create before we can bring it into being.

And I wonder, where in your own life might you be standing at the edge of the cutting table, waiting to step into something you already know is yours?

Upcoming

An Artist Homecoming: A Gathering of Kindred Creative Spirits

On December 7, I'm bringing together participants from my previous workshops and creative journeys for an afternoon of reconnection, reflection, and discovery.

We'll revisit the creative paths we've traveled, share where life has taken us, and explore what may be calling us forward.

It's a celebration of the connections that continue long after a workshop ends.

If we've shared a classroom or creative journey together, keep an eye on your inbox for a special Save the Date invitation coming soon!

And if you've been curious about joining one of these creative circles, stay tuned. New opportunities are coming in January!

Costa Rica: Finding Presence Through Art & Nature Retreat: One room remaining

APRIL 6–13, 2027 • COSTA RICA

Sometimes the greatest gift we can give ourselves is the space to simply be. Imagine a week surrounded by the lush beauty of Costa Rica, where art, nature, reflection, and meaningful connection invite you to slow down and rediscover your own creative rhythm.

Our Finding Presence Through Art & Nature Retreat is nearly full, with just one room remaining.

If you've been feeling the quiet pull toward this experience, perhaps this is your invitation.

​​​Finding Presence Through Art and Nature.pdf​

Coming in January: The Great Archetype Extravaganza!

Discover the Hidden Patterns Shaping Your Life

January 9–10 and January 16 - 17, 2027 | A Live Online Adventure

What if you could meet the invisible cast of characters influencing your choices, relationships, creativity, and the unfolding story of your life?

The Mother, the Seeker, the Hero, the Saboteur, the Visionary—these are more than symbolic characters. They represent universal patterns of human experience that influence how we navigate our lives, often without our conscious awareness.

Join me for a playful, eye-opening exploration of the archetypal patterns that shape who you are—and who you are becoming. What might you discover if you could recognize these patterns and begin working with them more consciously?

And here's the exciting part: I'm planning a special, extraordinarily affordable introductory price to make this adventure accessible to everyone who's curious!

Interested? Reply to this newsletter and let me know you'd like to be among the first to receive the details!

Art, Archetype & Ancient Wisdom

Odilon Redon: Giving Form to the Invisible

Odilon Redon, The Buddha, c. 1906–1907

What happens when an artist paints not what the eyes see, but what the imagination perceives?

French Symbolist artist Odilon Redon (1840–1916) spent his life exploring that very question. His extraordinary paintings and drawings transport us into dreamlike worlds populated by mysterious figures, mythological beings, luminous flowers, and otherworldly landscapes. His early work was often dark and enigmatic, while his later creations blossomed into radiant colors that seem to emerge from another dimension.

Redon believed that art could reveal something beyond the visible world. Rather than explaining his imagery, he invited viewers to enter it through their own imagination, discovering meanings that might be deeply personal.

Perhaps that is one of art's greatest gifts: its ability to awaken something within us that words alone cannot reach.

A question to ponder: When you encounter an image that captivates you but you cannot quite explain why, what might happen if you simply allow yourself to experience it rather than trying to understand it?

Follow Soul Stories

Soul Stories: Threads of Existence — Now in Print!

I'm delighted to share that Soul Stories: Threads of Existence is now available on Amazon!

This beautiful 106-page, full-color catalog brings together artwork from 25 textile artists, featuring both the first and second Soul Stories: Threads of Existence exhibitions.

Each work offers a unique exploration of the human experience, weaving together personal stories, mythology, spirituality, and the threads that connect us all.

Whether you've experienced the exhibitions in person or are discovering Soul Stories for the first time, this catalog is an invitation to explore the art and stories behind these extraordinary creations.

Until next time —

May you see the patterns, tend the light, and trust the work.

An