first snow at Haven House
Dear Friends,
As we settle into the new year and what feels like a proper winter, I feel the desire to hunker down and explore cozy spaces - at work, at home, and within my own mind. One of the reasons I love commission work so much is the idea of creativity within constraints. I have always been drawn toward finding expression within limitations and the nuance you can find in unexpected places. Winter seems to really fuel this idea for me. We spend more time at home and are forced to find new ways to make it feel comfortable, alive, or meaningful. Maybe this is why I'm always more inclined to purge in January than to spring-clean. I want to see my spaces from a new angle, without the clutter of old ideas.
One idea this spurred for me is the launch of my tiny heirloom circular oil paintings. I just adore the versatility that pieces like this provide - you can experience the history and timeless grandeur of portraiture without the burden or limitation of size. A circle can go anywhere. They can be grouped or displayed as singles, on a wall, on a shelf, hung in front of a bookcase, or styled in a small tabletop vignette. These are such sweet little gems to pass down through the generations.
At the studio this month, we're already off to an exciting start to the new year, with client sittings each week, including visits from the ultra-talented Jennifer Beek Hunter and Lilse McKenna. There is always something especially exciting about working with fellow creatives. They know precisely how to open the door to allow the magic out. My mind starts going in all sorts of wild and wonderful directions, and it inspires the work I do for everyone. I hope they don't mind the shout-out, as it was such a lovely and fun way to kick off 2026.
I hope you all enjoy a cozy, sweet start to 2026, embracing the moment of containment and finding the freedom within.
With Love,
LP