It’s fall, and I’ve been busy with more things than I’ll burden you with right now! So far, I’m managing to keep up with all my deadlines — including one I almost forgot about. Thankfully, I got a reminder email (and actually read it!).

That email reminded me to deliver a piece

I’ve been juggling a couple of big projects lately, both with nearly the same deadline—no wonder this past week flew by!

The first is my Dissonance series. Earlier this year, I was invited to participate in an exhibition called The Art of Resistance. I already had these works in mind, so I said yes.

The practice of gratitude is a core part of my own faith—and many other faith traditions as well. Beyond its spiritual roots, gratitude is also known to bring real health benefits, from lowering stress to lifting overall well-being. I know that our official gratitude holiday is coming, but I don’t think we can be too thankful.

As I reflect on my life right now, I feel grateful for so much.

Take a break from the noise of the world and immerse yourself in creativity at the Sacramento Open Studios Tour this weekend—Saturday & Sunday, September 20–21.

You’ll find me at Studio 218 in Oak Park alongside two of my favorite artists:

• Linda Clark Johnson, who creates beautiful cyanotypes and pottery

• Riva Wittenberg, who designs organic-inspired jewelry

I’ll be bringing a fun mix of work—everything from house pieces to layered natural-history-inspired artworks, plus brand-new creations using alternative photography processes. There will be art for every budget, and as a special thank-you, every purchase (in person or online) comes with a free gift of original artwork.

Art is deeply healing, for both the creator and the viewer. Simply looking at artwork can reduce stress and anxiety. Taking a pause from daily tasks to enjoy nature-inspired imagery, in particular, calms the nervous system. Science even shows that engaging with art you love releases dopamine, the same “feel-good” chemical that lights up when we fall in love.

Art can also create safe, non-verbal spaces to process difficult memories or emotions, sometimes leading to true catharsis. I’ve seen this firsthand with my own work: more than once…