Does anyone else feel like time has sped up and there’s no slowing it down? Are you having as much of a difficult time staying present and grounded as I am? Are you mentally in the past or obsessing over the future? Yes? Then, I’m not alone. Welcome to existential crisis Fall!
As much as I love Autumn, Halloween, and all things spooky and pumpkin spice I’ve been dragging my feet when it comes to transitioning into the season. It’s hard to believe it’s mid-October. Next thing you know - you know what? Let me not even think about it let alone say it. Time’s moving too fast as it is. There’s no need to speed it up further. Sometimes I’m mentally stuck in Summer, still swimming down the shore, but the falling leaves bring me back to the present moment.
I usually honor the passage of Summer by inviting warmth and comforting textures inside but that doesn’t seem like enough this time around. So I decided to challenge myself to a daily painting practice in October to keep me tethered to reality. Know what else keeps me present? Making Autumn my muse. All the cozy vibes are colored in golden ochre yellows, bright oranges, and muted greens. I’ve been enveloped in moody florals, darkened gardenscapes, and nostalgia. The latest is a still-life painting of Autumn decorations. Plastic pumpkins bring me back to the best Autumn memories like the feeling of trick or treating on a rainy night and family gatherings over a feast. Like the leaves slowly freezing in time, I wanted to preserve these moments and savor the season.
If you would like to do the same, all the art will be available to purchase in a studio sale launching next week! I am currently sharing the process and inspirations over on Instagram. Original art will be added to the shop throughout the Fall Season so if you ever wanted to collect a one-of-a-kind piece by me, follow along on Instagram @djfloresart for your chance to find the piece that calls to you!
Stay cozy & savor the season!
