The space between Christmas and New Year’s Day always feels a little quieter, like the world has stepped back to take a breath. I’ve been doing the same. Sweeping the studio, looking back at the work, and letting a few new ideas stretch their legs.
As I look ahead to 2026, I’m excited about what’s taking shape. New painting series are already forming, and I’m continuing to develop Mystery Art League ideas. These projects are pushing me to think not just about finished pieces, but about experience, participation, and how people move through art rather than just past it.
Outside the studio, the Smokies continue to do their steady work on me. We added a few more hikes to our completed list recently, another reminder that moving slowly, paying attention, and earning the view is usually worth it. Time on the trail always finds its way back into the work, even if it takes a while to show up.
Cataloochee, NC
In 2026 I’m looking forward to showing new work at The District Gallery in January and an August show at The Copper Fox Gallery, which feels like a good milestones to aim toward as the year unfolds. I have a few other ideas for showing my work, but those aren’t concrete. I’ll make sure and post about them when they are.
As for looking back, a few paintings from 2025 still linger with me:
“Carousel #2.” I love the details and all the colors of this one. It has movement and nostalgia. It’s currently hanging at The Copper Fox Gallery.
“Carousel #2 Perugia” 40x30x2″
“Sunshine.” This was one of my guitars from a series I exhibited in The District Gallery. Sunshine was vibrant and felt like it lit up the room.
Sunshine
24 x 24 x 2″
“Hope at a Crossroads.” This painting depicts a street view close to Kore Gallery in Louisville, KY. I fell in love with the industrial look of this area. It holds on to it’s past while still growing into a vibrant area for the community. This painting is currently hanging at Kore Gallery in Louisville, KY.
“Hope at a Crossroads”
24x24x2″
“Rails and Radiance.” This is one of an Archirtectural series I’ve been working on. I love working to record specific areas and the history. I also love that this captures a Knoxville icon, the Sun sphere. This may be my favorite of all my paintings of 2025. It didn’t last long at The District Gallery. I’m so glad it found a new home quickly:)
“Rails and Radiance”
30x30x2″
Each one taught me something different, and together they feel like signposts pointing toward where I want the work to go next.
Mostly, though, I’m grateful. For family and friends who keep me grounded, and for everyone who follows along, shows up, shares, comments, and supports the work in ways both big and small. None of this happens in isolation.
Here’s to a new year, new trails, and plenty of room to explore. Happy Holidayds to you and yours.
Randy