"A Week in Soft Motion"
Hello besties,
On this final day of the week, I feel more grounded than I did on the previous one. This week went more smoothly steady, deliberate moves instead of frenzied hurrying. I rewarded myself with time—time for work, time for assignments, and most importantly, time for myself. Like those quiet times when you run errands at your own speed without feeling compelled to perform or interact with others, the beginning seemed full yet leisurely. That emotion has been lost. I'm slowly readjusting to life now that my energy has been gradually restored; perhaps it will be a quiet café or a solitary walk. We shall see.
Let's begin with a project including graphic design. Working on this self-portrait got me thinking about identity, dreams, and how to visually tell a tale without going into too much detail, in addition to design. I incorporated each little sticker and element for a personal reason. Despite their seeming simplicity, the blanket and cookie jar stand for coziness and home. The books beneath me stand for my passion for education and the mental and physical support that stories provide. Creating my ideal studio in the background was more than simply a pastime; it was a means of envisioning an exciting and feasible future. Making the entire piece into the cover of a New Yorker magazine gave it a lighthearted yet somber touch. I've always liked this magazine because of its intelligent, eccentric, and considerate tone. Making this gave me the impression that I was entering a version of myself that I'm striving for—someone who is self-assured, imaginative, and perhaps even willing to do interviews in the future. Additionally, the colors were carefully selected. The splash of vivid pink brought out my more colorful, erratic side, while the gentle beige tones provided the steady, tranquil energy I frequently rely on. I felt as though I was telling myself that I could be both. I learned from this project that even something as seemingly straightforward as "a self-portrait" may elicit a profound process of introspection, creativity, and expression.
Right now, books and brushes are kind of my summertime rhythm. I can't help but think about characters or compositions even when I'm not reading or drawing. Heartless adds the deep gloomy intensity that makes small-town romance so captivating, while The Ex-Vows offers a wonderful blend of emotion and second-chance emotions. Elsie Silver is a master at creating chemistry. I adore how, despite the narratives' seeming simplicity, they constantly reveal something more profound, much like my favorite form of art.
Regarding my new artwork, I'm attempting to avoid overthinking it this time. I want to let the paper speak for itself and let the process lead the way. I want to use simple yet powerful paint, perhaps like how a single sentence in a book can have a greater impact than an entire chapter. I'm in the mood for something intense, unadulterated, and profound. We'll see how it develops.
To be honest, one of the best aspects of this season has been interning. It's extremely relaxing to spend your days surrounded by art, going through inventory, sorting stuff, and even feeling physically exhausted. Making your hands messy and your mind clear has a relaxing effect. Normally, my mind is constantly racing with ideas and pointless anxieties, but right now, I feel like I've found some calm again. I like that it's new.
Life lately has felt like a slow, warm swirl—good books, bits of paint on my hands, and iced coffees in my favorite spots. I’ve been visiting little cafés around the city, finding corners to sit with my book or sketchbook. I had the most delicious peach tart the other day that honestly deserves a paragraph of its own. Sometimes it’s the small things—sweet breakfasts, quiet walks, talking to myself in bookstores—that make me feel the most like me. I guess I’m in a season of soft changes, gentle shifts, and letting go of pressure. And with that, I’ll say goodbye for now. Hope your week brings you something kind and unexpected. Thanks for being here 🫶✨
