This photo is not from the bunch I chose as a top pic to share, however, I didn’t want to scrap it. When I look at this picture, I feel joyful and proud of myself with my art on display… especially the one I’m holding (I’ll get back to that in a minute).
My first real paint strokes were in 2004 when I took a painting class for a college elective. At the time, I was not happy… quite miserable actually from self-inflicted emotions that started a long list of situations I should’ve handled better and felt the consequences of it all years down the road. Long story short, the root of it all was that I was completely close-minded about my first relocation to Houston in 2002 and didn’t see the opportunity of a new environment that was in front of me. I grew tired of feeling depressed and angry. I prayed for a solution and got to work on myself. I took a painting class as part of my decision to move forward, take control of my perception of life and do something I’ve always wanted to do. At that moment, I fell in love with creating art.
I kept it to myself for a long while and painted occasionally, with only a few people discovering my passion, until 3 years ago when I picked it up again and started to share it on social media. After having my son, and dealing with such a traumatic experience, I was determined to get back to doing what I love and make it a priority. All of the paintings you see in the background are the direct result from that decision.
In the last 1.5 years, I taught 4 paint classes. For two of them, I taught the image I’m holding in this photo, which I did in 2008. Back then, I had no idea my love for art would turn into what it is for me today, but I’m glad I never let it go. One day, I look forward to seeing my art in other peoples homes, but for now, I find joy in the beauty that was birthed from triumph.
What gifts do you have waiting to be given life? What brings you joy? Please share below.
Peace and Love!
Yasmin
P.S. If you’re new here, visit the links below to learn more about me and my journey.
11 Simple Ways to Bring Happiness
Fluffy Banana Oat Pancakes w/ Blueberry Compote
Yasmin, The Instructor + Happiness