A Creative Reflection: Remembering My Artist Residency in New Mexico

There are moments in an artist’s life that stay with you. Not just because of where you were, but because of how you felt, what you remembered, released, and reimagined.

One such moment for me was receiving a fully funded Artist Residency in the stunning, sun-soaked landscape of New Mexico.

It felt like a wholehearted “yes” from the universe. A quiet but powerful invitation to slow down, reconnect with my creative roots, and listen deeply to what wanted to emerge. I packed up my favorite art journals, paints, collage papers, and pens, and also brought something even more important: a willingness to pause and trust the unknown.

My time in New Mexico became a sacred pocket of reflection and creative renewal. Surrounded by wide skies, desert silence, and vibrant textures of nature, I dove into daily meditation, intuitive art journaling, and mixed media play. Some days were filled with color and movement. Others were quiet, still, and full of breath.

Looking back, what I cherish most wasn’t the finished artwork, but the experience of creating without pressure. I remembered how nourishing it is to make art just for myself. To follow curiosity. To notice beauty in small things. To feel inspired by simply being.

This residency didn’t just refill my creative well—it planted the seeds for workshops, videos, and offerings that would later bloom for our Mindful Creative Muse community.

If you’ve been part of this journey—whether through a class, a retreat, or simply watching a YouTube video,you’ve felt the heart of what this residency reminded me of:
That creativity thrives in presence. That your inner artist needs spaciousness, trust, and room to breathe.

I hope this story encourages you to make space for your own quiet retreats, even if they’re just ten minutes at the kitchen table or a walk with your journal in hand.

Your creativity matters.
Your breath matters.
Your presence matters.

Thank you for walking this path with me.

Mindful Art Videos to Support Your Practice

Inspired by that season of deep listening, I’ve poured presence and love into a growing library of free YouTube videos that gently guide you back to your breath and creative spark. You don’t need fancy art supplies—just a pen, paper, and willingness to be with what’s real.

Here are two community favorites to explore anytime you need a pause:

Art Journal Flip Through: Mixed Media Magic

Peek inside my personal art journal and explore the colors, textures, scribbled words, and intuitive layers that make up my mindful art practice. It’s a messy, vibrant, real-life glimpse into how creativity meets presence on the page. You’ll walk away with simple ideas to try in your own journal, whether you’re brand new or have been creating for years.

Watch the Art Journal Flip Through:

Draw the Breath: Mindful Doodling for Calm

Draw the Breath meditation art prompt with blue gradient background and flowing line illustration - creative mindfulness exercise for artists.

This peaceful practice invites you to doodle your inhale and exhale, literally. You’ll follow the rhythm of your breath with your pen, allowing shape and movement to become meditative. It’s a grounding way to soothe your nervous system and reconnect with your body when life feels busy or overwhelming.

These videos are love notes to your inner artist. If they resonate with you, I’d be so grateful if you leave a comment or subscribe. Your engagement helps me shape future content and keep sharing what you most need.

Two Self-Paced Classes to Spark Your Creative Joy

If you’re feeling the pull to go deeper, I’d love to invite you to two nourishing courses that weave mindfulness, creativity, and self-discovery.

Magical Mixed Media: A Mindful Art Journaling Masterclass

Explore intuitive art-making through collage, color, layering, and guided prompts. Perfect for cozy mornings, creative self-care, or anytime you need gentle inspiration. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned journaler, this course is a soft landing for your inner artist.

DoodleZen: Mindful Breath and Doodle Bliss

This playful course shows how simple doodles can help calm your mind, regulate your breath, and bring ease into your day. A beautiful entry point for anyone craving more peace and presence.

Both classes are self-paced with lifetime access—ideal for dipping in and out whenever your creativity calls.

Want to Share Mindful Art with Others?

If you’ve felt a quiet nudge to guide others in mindfulness and creativity, our Mindful Art & Meditation Teacher Training might be the next step on your journey.

This double-accredited training supports you to:

  • Lead mindful art workshops and circles

  • Deepen your personal practice

  • Share creativity as a form of healing and presence

If your heart is whispering yes, I invite you to learn more here:

Let’s Keep Creating, Together

Whether you’re painting in silence, scribbling your breath in a journal, or simply noticing the light on your windowsill, I hope you’ll remember this:

Your creativity doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.
It just needs to be yours.

Thank you for being part of this beautiful, evolving community. I’m so grateful to be creating alongside you, with breath, with intention, and with heart.

Let’s keep going.