A Week of Art, Inspiration, and a Much-Needed Hike

It’s been a full and inspiring week, and I wanted to share a few highlights — including new art deliveries, an exciting exhibit in the works, and a hike that definitely reminded me I need to stretch more often before heading up a mountain!

A Trip to Leiper’s Fork

I took a quick trip to Leiper’s Fork this week to deliver new work to The Copper Fox Gallery. It’s always a beautiful drive, and I usually come back with a camera roll full of inspiration for future paintings.

While I was there, we talked about an upcoming exhibit that will feature both my work and the work of Valerie Edwards. Valerie creates incredible mixed-media paintings and sculptures, and our work really complements each other — we both incorporate paper and are drawn to themes of nature. I’m genuinely excited about how this show will come together.

In Copper Fox Gallery

Barn along my drive through Tennessee

District Gallery News

Last week, I also stopped by The District Gallery to drop off a new painting. While there, I got some exciting news — “Rails and Radiance” has sold! They also asked me to put together a new series for a show in January.

This upcoming series will focus on Knoxville architecture, which feels like a natural continuation of the work I’ve been exploring. I can’t wait to dig into some iconic local subjects with fresh eyes and layered storytelling.

Delivered to The District Gallery

Plenty to Keep Me Busy

Between the new gallery exhibits and planning the next Mystery Art League project, the next few months are going to be packed (in the best way).

One of the perks of spending hours at the table cutting paper is the headspace it gives me — plenty of time to think, reflect, and dream up new ideas. My goal is to keep sharing some of those thoughts here on the blog and over on social media. I hope you find them entertaining, helpful, or at least a good companion to your morning coffee.

A Weekend of Hiking & Good Company

I wrapped up the week with a visit from a high school friend, and we squeezed in two great hikes. On Friday, we trekked out to Cummins Falls, and then on Saturday we took on Mount Cammerer.

It was the perfect time of year to be on the trail — colorful leaves, crisp air, and mostly clear skies. The hike to Cammerer was no joke, though… we gained about 3,000 feet in elevation and covered 5.5 miles to the top. The way down wasn’t much easier!

Reaching the truck felt almost as exciting as reaching the summit. Almost.