Two Days Before Christmas.

Christmas in two days.

I decided, just a few days before Christmas, that this was the year my studio would be clean before the 25th. After all, we just moved into our new home in June and my studio is the first room as you enter the house. Visitors like to peek into the room very discreetly as they walk in.

Cold cup of coffee in hand, I wanted to add finished paintings to the wall, declutter the closet, hang colourful streamers and fairy lights. In other words, the studio was to look festive, organized, serene. Pinterest-worthy even!

With resolute intentions, I sat at my desk, facing the front street… and immediately uncovered three unfinished canvases, a mystery pile of collage papers, and a box filled with dead end art I’d been looking for since our move.

You see, some of my art supplies are still packed on shelves in the basement, as I wait for contractors to finish the basement where I will have more organized storage. By that I simply mean more space to hide art supplies and unfinished work behind closet doors.

Many creative detours...

Every attempt at cleaning became a creative detour.

While sorting papers, I found a sketch that could be used to create an interesting floral collage (20 minutes later). While wiping the counter, I had to test some colours (on several different papers, because why not?).

By the time I tried to clear the floor in order to wash it, the mess had migrated and multiplied like it was alive.

Hours later, the studio looked worse. I was covered in paint, glue, and paper scraps, and the only thing actually organized was my Nonna’s hutch where I display finished art work.

Still, I had to stand back proudly.

Good enough for Christmas.

The studio isn't clean - so far from it, but it is festive chaos of a kind, I suppose.

And honestly? That’s the most artistic kind. (And I think I will keep the door closed for another week!)

How many days until we make our new resolutions for 2026?

Dear Creative Friends:

May the festive season be filled with light and inspiration, and renewed energy and good health for 2026.

Louise

December 23, 2025.