Looking Back - Looking Forward

Reflecting on 2016

I've always been told time goes faster as you get older, but this year seems to have flown by in the blink of an eye. Although there are still a couple of weeks until 2017, I have been thinking of where I have been artistically and where I want to go for the next year.

Of course, one can't look forward without looking back and reflecting on what has happened over the past year and how it has influenced (or not) one's art.

In my case, looking back means digging through my memory to remember everything I have done. (Note to self - write down my goals at the beginning so I will have a checklist at the end). So I thought I would share some of the highlights of my artsy journey over the past year - both as a record for myself and to challenge my readers to do the same.

My Website donnahansonartworks.com went live in September and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out! Thanks to Kristin Cuss Kueber of

K-Creative Web Design for designing and creating my website and to Shannon Bos of Chapman & Boss Photography for the stunning photography of my art.

Teaching I taught classes in Encaustic and Watercolor Wax Resist over the past year. Teaching is a way for me to give back. I believe there is creativity in everyone and if I can help bring that out, the world has another artist!

Learning I took a few classes myself in 2016 - an online Class in Big Bold Wild Blooms with the fabulous Lynn Whipple.

a three day class with Victoria artist Blu Smith

and a beginner pottery handbuilding class with Giselle Peters.

Art Shows - I showed my paintings at three different shows in 2016 - Taber Cornfest, Coaldale Settler Days and the Gem of the West Museum show.

Art Displays - My work was on display at the Taber Library, 3-G Eatery in Coaldale and the Coaldale Library where it will be on display until Dec 31, 2016. Drop in and check it out if you happen to be in the area.

All in all, 2016 was a year of growth artistically and I look forward to setting new goals for 2017 (watch for my blog post on my plans for next year), more teaching, more learning and definitely more painting.

I wish all my family and friends a blessed Christmas and a very Happy and Creative New Year.