I’ve been doing a lot of writing this month. I joined a challenge to write a book – or 50,000 words, in 30 days. It has been in the back of my mind to write about some lifetime trauma and struggle – often started and stopped due to the voice in my head that insists no one will be interested. In October I came across this quote from Sandra Cisneros – whose first book in 28 years was being published – she said, “I’d throw my poems under the bed, like Emily Dickinson,” she said, ” One of the things I learned from Emily – Miss Emily, I should say with respect-is that you don’t have to publish in your lifetime, but you have to write.”
That completely freed me. I never have to share, but I do need to write. Words and memories have been pouring out of me. Each old wound up for re-examination, for feeling and letting go of, and hopefully, to earn a new narrative once I’m through processing.
This painting was made during the first 15 or so days of the writing process. It doesn’t look like my work to me, and I’ve been curious to see what shape it would take. A friend and I examined it one morning – and we both began to see a figure on the right hand side of the piece. I saw an owl, a caldron at the feet of the figure, some hands, and a discarded mask in a corner, and my friend said, ‘oh – that looks like your liver and a bunch of your insides…and that’s your third eye falling off the side of your face looking at the guts you’ve taken out…” We both got goosebumps and saw the expression of the writing process making its way onto the canvas.
The intuitive art making experience is so cool. I did start off with an idea for this work, but it quickly disappeared as I added colors and shapes randomly – and then the painting revealed itself
UPDATE – THIS HAS FOUND A NEW HOME – THANK YOU! :-)
I’ve become attached to having this one hanging on my wall . . . but it’s now varnished and ready to find a new home. It has changed ever so slightly from the previous post so these pictures are the final painting.
All photos have been taken in natural light to show the true colors to the best of my ability.
Acrylic and oil sticks and other things on wood panel. SOLD
UPDATE – THIS HAS FOUND A NEW HOME – THANK YOU! :-)
‘sail away’ will be available once it dries and is sealed [in about a week].
I’m loving being surrounded by all these colors . . . especially when the light hits it just right. I’d been trying to resolve this painting by attempting to reign in the chaos . . . then started to love how everyone who looked at it used their imaginations to see vastly different things within the chaos. . . . and witnessing their journeys made me happy. :-)
18x24x3/4″ acrylic, oil sticks and other things , on wood panel. SOLD
UPDATE – THIS HAS FOUND A NEW HOME – THANK YOU! :-)
For Sale – ‘Gypsy Soul’.
I’m really loving this one. It’s been a lesson in patience and layers and really trying to let the painting lead me. I listened to a lot of music while working and ‘Into The Mystic’ was on repeat … the painting revealing itself as ‘gypsy soul’. Hoping it will find a new home and give someone else the joy it’s given me. :-)
16x20x3/4″ on wood panel. Sealed with satin varnish.
$175 local / cash SOLD
$200 shipped in U.S.
**colors in the video seem off on my computer. please note several images posted here and on Instagram in different lighting settings to do my best to show true colors**
Now offering 75 minute sessions for both Swedish and Therapeutic Massage. When 60 minutes doesn’t feel long enough and 90 minutes is hard to carve out of your busy schedule …. give 75 minutes a try for that extra boost of relaxation.
I can’t believe we are already in August. Summer months seem to fly by as an adult.
I hope you’ve been able to get out and enjoy. Despite being someone who’s always melted in the heat – I’ve been really proactive about enjoying the outdoors while we can …. swimming, walking/hiking, reading a book in the sun, getting my hands in some dirt, making art, and dinners on the deck … because spending time in nature really improves my mental health. Outside of getting regular massage, any kind of outdoor movement seems to support me the best.
What helps you feel calmer or rejuvenated?
Hope to see you in my office soon. Until then, take care of you. ♥
I’m not much of a selfie person … but every once in a while I’ll throw one up so you know who you’re interacting with. I know when I’m making a decision on whether or not to do business with someone, I like to know something about who I’m supporting … especially with a profession like massage therapy.
This morning I started a Summer Training Camp. It’s a supportive online community with women of all body shapes and sizes where we’ll spend 12 weeks either prepping for anything from a 5K to a half marathon or doing a weight lifting program. I choose both 😳🏋️♀️🏃♀️. I’ll probably stick to walking … but the encouragement of the program may get me to run (ahem…slow jog) again. We’ll see.
Either way that’s not really the point. It’s about finding joyful movement…whatever that means to you…in whatever body you’re living in right now …without intent to change it – just to enjoy and care for it. :)
Anyways … they asked for us each to post a pic so we can get to know one another … and that’s why I even have a pic to share here…
Anyone local want to sign up too? They’re leaving it open for the rest of today. It would be fun to have in person community along with the online one. 😊 In fact I’ve been wanting to start a walking group for those of us who move SLOW for a while. I’d love to hear from you if you’re interested.
These are a handful of recent reviews from massage clients. It always fills me with a sense of purpose to know that an hour spent together can shift the outcome of your day. Holding safe space, being present, creating a respite, hoping you feel heard and witnessed . . . these are things I like to do.
You can schedule your next massage appointment by going to the MASSAGE tab and clicking the BOOK NOW button. See you soon! :)
If you have insomnia, or an active mind at night – try using this pressure point. Massaging ‘Heart 7’ for 30 seconds on each wrist may help you become sleepy more easily. Try it and let me know if it helps.
Not sure you’re ready to come back in for a massage session? Why not try long distance energy work. You can receive it right from the safety of your own home.
Tania Palermo [Studio on Main] 