Embracing 2024 with Art and Heart

As we stand at the end of 2023, almost ready to leap into 2024, I find myself filled with excitement and gratitude. It's been a year of exploration, growth, and connection, and as I look forward to the next, I'm eager to share my journey and dreams with you.

Before we get going, I wanted to let you know that YUCK is ​now available on my site​.

2023: A Year of Discoveries and Milestones

Reflecting on the past year, I'm filled with pride and a sense of accomplishment.

I accomplished a dream of mine this year, painting a mural. And because of taking that first leap in submitting my idea to the city, I became a muralist. I’ve now completed four murals around Kingsburg!

Delving deeper into my art, I've embraced the complexity and beauty of texture and typography, which have become pivotal elements in my work. I see so much potential in what I can express with pushing and pulling the edges of what they can convey.

And you! Starting this newsletter and watching it grow has been very rewarding for me. I love being able to share my thoughts, process, and excitement with my Crawdad Crew.

Have someone in mind who might enjoy being part of the Crawdad Crew? Forward this email to them and tell them to sign up. Or better yet, go enter their email address into the ​form​ on my website.

The Vision for 2024: Doubling Down on Dreams

2023 is wrapping up with an unexpected $15,000 in sales, I'm setting my sights on doubling that figure in 2024.

This goal isn't just about numbers; it's about the impact and reach of my art.

A quick sketch of some Playbill style lettering with a block and shadow.

Upcoming Adventures in Art

The coming year is set to be an exhilarating one. I plan to further develop my work around texture and typography, exploring these elements in more depth.

My sights are set on entering local shows and perhaps hosting my very first solo exhibition, a milestone I'm incredibly excited about.

Additionally, the sensory ball series, which many of you have shown love for, will continue to evolve.

And of course, there are murals. I’m aiming to complete six of them in 2024.

Looking to add a bit of pizazz to your space?
Hit reply and lets chat about making a mural.

Balancing Art, Work, and Family

Amidst these ambitious plans, my family remains my anchor. As a full-time worker, husband, and father, balancing my art with family life is crucial.

It's about creating a harmonious blend of passion and responsibility, ensuring that each day is filled with creativity and love.

Envisioning the Ideal Life as an Artist

What’s this all for?

If I were to paint a picture of my dream life, it would start with a morning powerlifting session, an energizing routine that sets the tone for the day.

Then, it's breakfast with my beloved family, followed by hours immersed in my studio, creating art that speaks to and for you.

I dream of bustling solo shows, a growing list of art collectors, and meaningful moments spent homeschooling and making memories with my family.

This vision includes not just the creation of art but also the building of a community around it.

Engaging with you through social media and newsletters, receiving your feedback and excitement, that's what fuels my creative spirit.

If you aren’t following me on Instagram, do it! ​
Follow me​

I also see a future where the business side of things is supported by a dedicated team, allowing me to focus more on what I love - creating art.

Let’s see if I can make this future happen, shall we?

Together, We Make Art Happen

As I lay out these plans and dreams, I am reminded that none of this is possible without you.

Your support, encouragement, and engagement are what make this journey so rewarding.

Let's step into 2024 together, making it a year of unforgettable art and deepened connections.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here's to a year of growth, creativity, and shared success!

Cheers,
Crawdad

P.S. The holidays are right around the corner and I want to remind you that I’ve got something special available!

I’ve opened up 10 special art commission slots! Colorful, textured masterpieces with your chosen word or name styled with your colors and lettering. You can choose between serifs or not and things like how thick or thin the overall look of the letters are.

At $325 framed and $250 unframed, it’s a unique chance to own or gift something truly personal. Hit reply to get started.