This past year has been a whirlwind of creativity, growth, and moments that have stretched me in ways I never could have imagined. As I reflect on everything that has unfolded, I’m overcome with gratitude for the journey I’ve been on as an artist, teacher, business owner, wife, and mother.
When I left my role as a public school art teacher, I had a vision for what I wanted my life to look like. I dreamed of creating meaningful art, teaching in more personal settings, and having the flexibility to raise my children in a way that felt intentional and connected. This year, I feel like I’ve truly stepped into that dream — though not without its challenges.
This was the year I ventured into new realms of creativity. I began to focus more on human portraiture, capturing the essence and stories of the people I painted. I explored live wedding painting, where the energy and emotion of the day added a unique vibrancy to my work. Painting more architectural elements in my pieces pushed me to think differently about composition and space, while illustrating for books brought my love for storytelling to life in a whole new way. And of course, I continued creating custom pet portraits and ornaments, which have become such a meaningful way for people to celebrate and memorialize their beloved companions.
Teaching has remained a cornerstone of my work, and this year, I had the privilege of working with students from ages 5 to 90 and beyond. Teaching in senior living and memory care communities has been particularly special. There’s something profoundly moving about watching someone pick up a paintbrush for the first time in decades, seeing the joy and pride in their eyes as they rediscover their creative spark. Those moments have deepened my love for teaching and reminded me why I do what I do.
All of this unfolded while I navigated the demands of being a full-time mom to a spirited toddler and journeyed through the first two trimesters of my current pregnancy. Balancing the many roles I hold has been anything but easy. There have been late nights, early mornings, and days that felt impossibly long. But there have also been moments of quiet triumph, when I’ve looked around and realized that this is exactly what I set out to do.
This year has taught me that we’re capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. It’s shown me the beauty in embracing vulnerability — in trying new things, taking risks, and sharing pieces of myself through my art. And it’s reaffirmed my belief that creativity is a powerful force, one that connects us, heals us, and helps us see the world in new ways.
As I look ahead to what’s next, I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and creating. I’m grateful for the incredible people who have supported me on this journey, from the clients who trust me to bring their visions to life to the students who inspire me with their bravery and curiosity. Thank you for being part of my story. Here’s to another year of art, connection, and embracing the beautifully messy journey of life.
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @lindseyfinchart, or email me at contact@lindseyfinchart.com to start planning your next art piece — whether it’s a live wedding painting, a pet or people portrait, or even a painting workshop. I can’t wait to create something beautiful together!
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