Holidaze

Introspection

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is this week. Before you know it, the holidays will roll around and we’ll have to adapt to spending this time of year away from family and friends. It has been a challenging year for all of us and I hope that you’ve been able to find some peace in the ups and downs of this craziness.

My greatest challenge in this experience has been finding patience. I’m restless and beat, looking for control over something when so many obstacles have challenged my aspirations. The loss of control has made me recognize that my expectations are my biggest grief right now. What I can control is my perspective and what I spend my time doing.

My mood goes a long way in determining the kind of day that lies ahead. Some days are harder than others, but no matter what I stick to activities that recharge me. I’ll listen to Deepak Chopra, do my daily workouts in an isolated infrared sauna, and replenish with fresh food and a weekend dip in the ocean. My problems are still present and real but I have regained some inner peace. 

Finding Inspiration & Driving Creativity

With fewer novel experiences in this past year, I’ve turned to stories of fantasy to escape and inspire me. James and I re-watched/watched for the first time all of Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, Alice in Wonderland, and The Hobbit/Lord of the Rings movies. Escaping into works of creativity and fun has provided us with a sense of adventure that has me excited to follow my own adventurous spirit.

Our days have been devoted to creating our new gallery space, transforming the front showroom and boutique to add more layers of design.

Following our hearts, we’ve created a gallery space that feels like our sanctuary. We’re proud of the work we create and this space showcases the art with high esteem.

Our first exhibit in the space will be James’ latest work, “Havana, Cuba: A Photographic Essay by James Knill”. Due to the conditions of Covid-19, we have decided not to have one of our crowded gallery openings. Instead, we are hosting an all-day open house to celebrate this exhibition and our new expansion. Our open house will take place on December 5th from 11:00 am - 4:30 pm.  We kindly ask you to wear a mask and practice social distancing measures during this all-day open house.  Our address is 400 Gulfstream Blvd #7, Delray Beach, FL 33444. For parking, you can park in front of the gallery or in the spaces along the west side of the building, which is Webb Avenue.

The second show in our space will be a new collection of mine that is currently in production. I’m grateful for these creative endeavors and how they’ve provided me with opportunities to create works that mean something to me. I can’t wait for you to see what I’ve been up to!

Support Small Businesses With Holiday Shopping

Small businesses are the backbones of a community and it’s been devastating to see how many have had to shutter around the country. As you prepare for holiday shopping, I ask you to remember your local stores and boutiques. Amazon is convenient, I get it. But even one gift from a local business can help them get through this upcoming Winter.

As for James and I, the boutique and showroom are open and stocked with handmade goodies that make the perfect holiday gift or treat for yourself. We have a great selection of gifts under $50.00 and a new line of wearable art, “Sweetshirts”.

https://www.amandajohnsonstudio.com/tops

I have been doing a lot of personal shopping for clients so if you need my help selecting a gift, feel free to call, email or text me for help! I don’t have everything online so I often can put together something fabulous for you that is not listed.

Cell: (443) 823-5057

Gallery: (561) 270-7832

Email: Amandajohnsonstudio@gmail.com

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! I love and miss you!

XOXO,

- Amanda