A new life, a new country

It’s already been over a month since I arrived in the UK and to this new life. Time seems to be moving at an incredible pace and I feel a strong need to collect all of the anecdotes, keep track of my days, and not let anything slide. Of course, always easier said than done.

In a humble attempt to take note of a few things that I’ve experienced so far, here are some excerpts from my little sketchbook: 

The architecture is breathtaking… the roundabouts terrify me… the bread and cheese are heaven (a perfect time to find out I might be intolerant)... and people don’t ask me where I’m from each day.

I’ve been taking it slow for the most part, but am finding a steady rhythm. Along with moving into a new studio space and situating myself better, I’m gradually discovering a new direction for my art.

For starters, I want to share a piece that I completed this month: 

Created when I didn’t yet have a studio, I brought all my materials to my favorite cafe and made a workspace from the tables of the coffee shop. Over a couple of sittings, I layered the watercolor, pastel, and words upon one another, not forcing completion but allowing it to find a life of its own.

I see this piece as an ode to the small culture shocks and frustrations that come with moving to a new country. A small snapshot into the blended chaos of excitement and a longing for home.