MY FIRST YEAR AS A FULL-TIME ARTIST - LOST MY JOB due to lockdown & how I make a living, 3 ways
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- čas přidán 18. 06. 2024
- First-year as a full-time artist - In this video, I am sharing my journey from a part-time job to becoming a full-time artist. How I lost all my income due to the lockdown but grew my business with three sources of income. I share how I started and grew my CZcams channel, how I started and grew my Patreon page and also how I made more sales in my Etsy shop. I also talk about my self-care routines and finding my balance between life and work. There's art for wellbeing and therapy and of course some dancing if you make it to the end! I truly need to thank everyone for all your support over the past year, whether that has been visiting my Etsy shop, being a (past or present) Patron or supporting my CZcams channel by watching, liking, commenting and subscribing. All of these things help me so much and I really couldn't have made the leap into becoming a full-time artist without you.
As always, thanks so much for watching and all the support, encouragement, lovely comments and connections.
Lots of love & big soft virtual hugs, Wendy Xx
You can also find me here -
Patreon page -
/ theunexpectedgypsy
Instagram
/ the.unexpected.gypsy
Etsy Shop
www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheUnexp...
**New video EVERY Friday!**
Last week's video - Dream Journaling!
• Art Journaling inspire...
Timestamps are below so you can jump to the parts you wish!
00:00 intro & TEA!
01:23 grumpy Wendy!
02:37 my life before lockdown, what work was I doing?
04:34 what happened to me when the first lockdown hit
05:38 first ever Patreon video I made
06:56 Why Patreon, how I started up my Patreon, how it became my first source of income, how I make money as an artist
11:26 second source of income - Etsy Shop
13:10 third source of income - CZcams
14:14 how I grew my CZcams channel
16:41 how I grew my subscribers on CZcams to earn money from my channel
19:03 challenges of a full-time artist on CZcams
19:59 Self-care routines and montage
21:49 struggling to find a work-life balance
23:16 my one big tip piece of advice to go full-time and freelance as an artist or creative
24:32 outro, DANCING and thank you!
Affiliated links - (I get a small commission!)
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Music by;
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Music by Jack Vandervelde - Georgia - thmatc.co/?l=39E3907D
Music by Zachary Friederich - You Are Never Alone [Instrumental] - thmatc.co/?l=F27B753E
Disclaimer:
This is not a sponsored video. All opinions are honest and my own.
#moleskinejournal #pebeo #liquitex #modpodge #dalerrowney #cassart #distressink #stazon
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*I truly need to thank everyone for all your support over the past year, whether that has been visiting my Etsy shop, being a (past or present) Patron or supporting my CZcams channel by watching, liking, commenting and subscribing. All of these things help me so much and I really couldn't have made the leap into becoming a full-time artist without you.*
czcams.com/video/YPmVP5_tGCg/video.html
Thanks for sharing your journey Wendy . I enjoy your channel and it has definitely encouraged us all to create and enjoy life . I look forward to more videos and art journaling with you . Thanks and keep up the good work.
Even though we live far apart, I so enjoy having a cup of tea/coffee with you. Your mental health journey has always spoken to me and I truly appreciate you openly sharing. Thank you.
So happy to see this dream coming true for you and you sharing that joy with others with why I subbed. You're incredible.
@@trudyfortenberry6446 Thank you so much xxxxx see you next time!
At 57 years old, I had begun to feel everything "new" was behind me. But last year I launched a part-time business -- so not like me. Then around Christmas I stumbled onto The Unexpected Gypsy. Now I'm actually painting and art journaling. I don't know anything about art. I can't even draw. But I'm doing it. And I'm learning about art and colors and myself and so much more. Thank you for that. You've been such a gift.
So happy for you! Well done and happy journaling!! xx
What business did you launched
Very interesting I am enjoying listening to your journey. Good luck
I love this ❤️
You dont have to be able to draw Dawn just splash some paint around. Or there are some awesome tutorials on YT. Or just watch anyone and pause the video. Not sure if I am allowed to give other artists names here or I could tell you several..Im 68 and loving art in all ways although I havent tried journalling yet. 🎨🎨💜
I actually love the Wendy waffle LOL!!!
LOL! Lucky then!!! xxx Big vlog coming next week with plenty of it!! xx
Me tooo! 😅
Me three 🤓
me four
@@janeadlington7150 hehehe x
James is a wonderful partner! Supportive, helpful, and the fact you can acknowledge he's part of your success means you both make a wonderful team. It's obvious he wants you to succeed, and I'm so glad you can count on him, and he can count on you!
I´m an English as a Foreign Language teacher and found myself in a similar situation, I´ve taken all my classes online and I´m paying my bills too. You have been an inspiration to me since I started watching about six months ago. I´ve started journaling, I´m trying to learn to draw using CZcams videos, I´ve taken up embroidery and watercolour painting. Your warmth and authenticity has got me through some rough patches and I´m very happy I found you here.
Wow, thank you Jane, so happy you are here too xxx much love and happy creating x
I value your authenticity and your honesty. The fact that you reveal your vulnerability gives us all permission to do the same. What you are presenting is far more valuable than you know. Thank you for the gifts you bring. I am raising my coffee cup to you!
Thank you, Pamela, this really encourages me to keep going .. xxx Love having coffee with you!!
Wendy, I am now 56, have been art journaling for about 10 years or so, and have a passion for uplifting and inspiring quotes which I generally weave into my art works. I have been watching your videos for a while now, and you are truly an inspiration. This particular video feels like it was made for me as I have been soul searching for some time. I plan to commence doing my own videos on CZcams even though I am kind of scared, because life it too short to be doing something you don’t like very much, instead of what your heart tells you to do. Anyway, I think you probably mean an awful lot to a lot of your followers, and I just wanted to let you know that you have been helping me to get through some difficult days. You give comfort and have a wonderful way of sharing your story. Thank you for all you do.
I know this isn't a new video, but I just wanted to say thank you for shining your light, allowing yourself to share, be genuine and authentic, and being a source of inspiration, love, and light to all. All of your videos are inspiring on so many levels, and I get so much joy from sharing tea with you, seeing glimpses of nature in so many of your videos, as well as your sharing of your art and your life. Watching your videos is like sharing a spark, lighting a fire together. Knowing we aren't alone means that we aren't shining a candle alone, but burning as brightly as a bonfire. Much love and virtual hugs.
One of the sweet blessings that happened, for me, was the day I got a you tube recommendation to watch the sweetest, cutest little artist in Glastonbury. So so grateful that I did click on that one ❤
So glad to have you here Marti, xxxx keeping me in the best company x
The universe really gave you a big "nudge" for you to go down this path ❤️ so happy it did xx
yup it did, TY Dan!
I’m looking forward to learning how to create a life and be an artist. Wow.
Thank you 🦋
You’re truly inspiring.
Hope you enjoy it Jo-Ann xxx Thank you for watching x
This is a lovely video Wendy. You are such an open, honest, genuine person and I love watching you and hearing what you have to say. Keep shining brightly and spreading your happiness and inspiration.❤️
Thank you so much Diane, warmed my heart. Loads of love, xx
“Follow your heart... “ it took me YEARS to grasp the real meaning of that. Heart IS compass. ❤️❤️❤️
You know, I found your channel a few months ago. Not sure when exactly it was (I kinda get lost in linear time 😁), but it was at a moment of my life where I gave up on art (fine arts), and decided that I should just stop painting and creating if it wasn't for money (I'm a designer, so I do live by creating but in a different way). You helped me see art with a new light. I thought I lost my passion for it, but in reality, I simply didn't know how to keep that practice for myself and how to connect with myself enough to paint, collage, draw, play. So, thank you for that. I'm so glad I found your channel before I gave up and give away all my art supplies and decide to be something I'm not. 💚💚💚💚 All my love from Ecuador and thank you for everything you do :))
That's so wonderful to hear, much love to you in Ecuador xx
I relate to your story so much. I'm a designer too 💕
@@theunexpectedgypsy :))))))
@@corilewis glad to hear fellow designer :))) hope it helps you somehow :))
It's a process to listen to our intuition and our heart as to what is best for ourselves instead of all the outside "noise" 💙
Yup, so true xx
I only recently found you, but I wish I had found you much earlier on in the lockdown. I find you so soothing and calming to watch and listen to. You've also inspired me to start creating again. Thank you ❤
So wonderful Joanna, thank you too xxx
you should write a book on your journey to becoming a full time artist - thank you for being an inspiration 🙏🌟
maybe one day! x
Yay! Warrior Wendy! I love your waffles. You are so inspiring!!
Yay! TY Deborah, xxxxx
I am from South Africa and just came along your videos, I love the way you are so natural and it feels like listening to a friend. Thank you,I hope to have the courage one day to also be an artist. I never had the time or courage, my life seem to have a way of living for me. I really enjoy your videos
I work part time and create on my days off. I do have a CZcams channel and a shop. So far I’ve not made any money from my sales as I’ve spent more on my business than I’ve made. But at least I’m doing what I love and that’s creating. T x
Yes, its certainly a balance between investing and profit! Esp at the beginning. Good luck! xxx
@@theunexpectedgypsy thank you T x
my story literally mirrors your! altho i do somedays miss interacting with many people on a daily basis, being a full time artist is great and now I have multiple streams of income a month from art which gets more and more each month i could be happier. wish you all the best and good health on your journey
So glad you are making a living too, many blessings and thank you for watching x
Thank you love. I’m a full time art teacher making a living but I would love to retire soon and be the artist I’ve always wanted to be.
You are an inspiration!
I remember feeling sad and hopeless in earlier lockdown days, scrolling through CZcams looking for something to watch when I happened to stumble across your first CZcams video. I watched it and was captivated and inspired. I began to paint, draw, and picked back up photography after putting it down for a while. Now, I’m a part time photographer and photography club President at my college. You’ve inspired so many of us and I thank you for that. You are such a lovely creative soul and it’s been a gift to watch you grow and grow with you! 💛
Love this so much, thank you for sharing and may you keep growing and blooming 😙♥️🌷🌷🎈🎈🎈
Wendy and James: Thanks for sharing your interesting journey. Love your sweet and unbridled style. Please keep sharing with us as your artistic lives unfold. ♥️
TY Tyra xx
Haven't watched the whole video yet, but CONGRATS on 63k! I'm so happy for you. You deserve it!
woohoo! Thank you Anna xx
So true! Yes, listening to our bodies and knowing when we need to 'regroup'. I deal with difficulty breathing and when stress or worry are added, I must stop and take care. Living in the countryside has been a wonderful blessing, considering the state of our world. There is so much beauty out there and spending time in nature is so inspiring and helps my art journey immensely. Thank you for sharing your most wonderful, challenging and beautiful journey with us!
May the universe continue blessing you and supporting you. :) Xxxxx
TY so much xxxxxx and you too xxxxxx
You are so refreshing! ❤
Thank you so much, xxxxx
I started watching your videos early on and loved to watch you paint and make things. I love hearing about your life and growth and light. But I also miss watching you create. Your creativity and process inspired me so much. It got me wanting to paint and play. I learned so much by watching you. I painted along with you and found so much joy in it. This has turned into more of a diary than a creating channel. I bring my cup of tea and get comfy and watch and laugh with you. But, I sorely miss the days I could paint along with you. That being said I appreciate and am thankful for the light you have brought into my life. The world is better because people like you and James are in it.
Thank you for being here on this journey x The last video was creating maybe you missed it.. x I will paint and create as much as possible in amongst the vlogs too but my process of painting is exclusive on Patreon as I need to separate some of my offerings. Hope you understand x
Thank you for sharing your journey. I wish you and James all the best. Keep your lights bright!
Thank you so much Karen, you too!!
I have been following you for a while now and always look forward to your weekly videos. I think you are so very brave and in the words of Brene Brown "Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver. Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we will ever do". Keep your light shining and continue to be vulnerable.
You are a Treasure and a joy to watch. Your Art is fantastic. You're a true survivor.
Wendy . Thank you so much for SHARING ... Your experience of going from part time.. shyish artist, into what you have Become: a full time. Completely bloomed out, lovely artist. As you mention briefly on your video... It has been your attention motor as well as your intention Focus, working out of your " catterpillar clothes ", into your grown and strong wings of the "Art Butterfly ",
you actually are.
I would say, that luck was on your side.. as everything you seré sensing and had,been doing fell into Sync, including your dedicating less Hours to the half time, job .and more of those to, what you wanted to achieve.. work, live and enjoy. Been your internal call. a full time mature.artist.
This Also includes your decisión of giving Up your previos studio to, be surprised by a much more beautiful and stimulating one. Life's prize for your bravery in these times.
It IS said. And I do believe this to.be true, that success comes when you are ready. I visualize, It IS like been waiting at the train station, with your papers. Your bags And your expectations and experience, you are there, "seemingly" at random....
But Life presents. you with."your"
Opportunity, As you are ready and "alert." you recognize its "your ' train. So when It opens its Doors you board It feeling.its Destiny... The rest.is history...
Congrats dear Wendy.
Its adrian's grandmom...
Diana. Chapeau.unexpected.Artist Butterfly.
Cannot express how difficult It IS yo writey comnents on.my.mobile phone.. because.it kind of ptogramned most of.the time on spanish and sometimes.in.english plus It seems have a Life of its own
So It changes.words adds or substracts letters... And I have to, revise Many times and use comas.or dots so that.it Will
Not change, my sentences..
But I stilñ tales my time yo let you know i am.your followers and great fan although.not in patrón.yet. lots of LOVE from Spain . Till.next Friday then
Cannot.wait for your new video
Love this thank you Diana, xxx all so true and see you next week xx
Your bright light helps me when I'm feeling at my lowest with my Depression, you lift my spirits just high enough so I can feel a little brighter for a moment in my day. Thank You xx
Sorry, you have depression, it's not an easy world to live in, so glad I lifted your spirits a little xxx soft hugs and TY for watching x
I’ve just found you, wow what an amazing woman you are, inspiring and bright 🌼 your honesty is great, talking about mental health is so needed and sharing with love and light, thank you 🙏🏻 I am a Specialist Nurse and I love my job, been a nurse and midwife for 30 years and it’s my purpose to be a healer ❤️ faith, art, nature and yoga keep me in balance 🌸
Gosh, I started watching your channel when you had about 2k subscribers! Look at you now! I dont comment usually, but rarely miss a week with you. I made the decision to being more dedicated to making art daily in January of 2020. I was working part time as a companion care provider for the elderly and painting as much as possible. Then in June my brother and I convinced our 90 year old Mum to move a two days drive to North to be closer to us so we can care for her. She would be living with me since I'm single. Two weeks before she came up I recieved a call of a studio space available. So I quit my part time job and started getting serious about art as a source of income. I started receiving portrait commissions along with selling my paintings. From there I refreshed my website and started selling my daily paintings through Facebook. Mom and I bought a new place to live that was big enough for two of us, I moved to a studio three time the size and only 8 minutes from home and now am working hard to increase my income from other art related sources. Several friends d keep trying to convince me to start a CZcams channel so I'll be taking g that step next. I already had a Patreon page and am becoming more active with that and this summer since I have the bigger studio I will start teaching again.
I must say Wendy you have been such encouragement through all the changes this past year. Caring for my Mum and getting serious about my business is a lot of work. More than a filltime job would be. But I know every bit of effort is worth it! Great big virtual hug to you for your encouragement and support!
It's a pleasure to listen to you. I am new to the channel and I am fascinated to have met you.Thank you!
A little dance always helps! Well done! Thank you for the inspiration and encouragement!
Absolutely! Dance medicine!
This is really lovely. Thank you for sharing your experience! That was a sweet note about the help you got from James, too. ☺ When our better halves support us, it makes a world of difference! My husband is my rock, too. ☺ Take care, and best wishes for the rest of your journey! ✌💜🤗
I feel quite emotionally watching this video, your videos helped me return to my creative space. Your videos also helped my mental health. Thank you Wendy for your bravery. James is a true star ⭐️ 🦋💟🪴🌷💐❤️🌸🌻🌼🌸🌺🌹🌷💐🌾🥀🥰😍❤️💕🙏🏾🙏🏻💐💟🪴🌷
Wow ! TY so much, you just made my day!! xxxx and yes, he is !!
You've reminded me how it all comes together when we love what we do and feel passionate about art and sharing it.
Oyay. I just sat down with my morning cuppa coffee - what timing! 😊☕
Happy Friday!
💟
Oh well, perfect! Hope you enjoy it xxx
Dear Wendy, I think you are a very brave person!
To ajust yourself in such difficult situation and find your way in live doing what you like best.
Not many people can👍👍🌹🌹🌹
You are so inspiring! I have a good job that I don’t like...but my creativity room is my happy place where I can balanced my life. I use my job as a financial leverage for my art, my garden and to pay my bills. Balanced....between things I like and things I don’t! Big hugs from Quebec, Canada! ❤️❤️🦋🌸🌻🙏🏻❤️
Dear Unexpected Gypsy, I came across one of your videos today and have watched at least half a dozen now. I think it was the part time job to full-time artist that hit home with me. To the point of an emotional kick in my throat. I am in the process of just following a lifetime dream, I am 66. My dream is so close I can taste it. There are external factors at play. Anyway I feel you are a younger sister, from another mother. Thank you for inspiring me, as the teacher comes when the student is ready. I wont waffle anymore, cheers from Vicki from Queensland, Australia.
As always a fantastic video. I know how hard the past year has been. I feel it. After my children left home I became a full time artist. I was the director of an art gallery with approx. 40 artists. On top of that, my husband worked out of town which I became very used to being able to paint and create (which we all know artists are kind of solitary beings) whenever I liked. Then came the lockdown... the Gallery closed, my husband's job was over and he was old enough to retire and I was home ALL the time as was my husband. I have found it so hard to be inspired and get into any kind of rhythm. Hopefully when things open back up completely I'll get my groove back. Until then thank you for sharing.
Yes, I agree Lori the lockdowns have hit hard. I hope they lift soon and your groove will come back xxxx
TFS, as always enjoy your videos. Seeing the metamorphosis of your life, your channel & career help us feel like we're not the only ones experiencing these things w/this pandemic, help us feel more grounded, remind us to take care of ourselves & let the light shine 🌞 THANK YOU!!!
I think you’re really lovely, natural and down to earth. This has been such an inspirational video to me. I am a quiet introverted person. I absolutely love to create and never happier or more relaxed and calm when I’m crafting. Watching you in this video has given me hope and encouragement that I could eventually earn money from my creations and find confidence to begin that journey. Thank you so much for what you do here and I wish you heaps of success in your journey. Sal xx
You are such a wonderful inspiration to me. Your light does indeed shine brightly. I so love the authenticity you share with us. I am working in the direction that you are already at. It's so great to have a way-shower on this path. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Many soft hugs. A friend.
Hi Wendy, so excited to catch your video before heading off to bed. Im in Australia but married to a gorgeous English man coming up to 31 yrs on the 14th April. I enjoy all of your videos and Im slowly making my way through them all. I have done some creating with you as I watched……I just look forward to being creative every day as this is a big part of my wellbeing medicine. I dream to find my uniqueness as an artist and I know it will come. Take care, be Blessed and look forward seeing more of your gorgeous creating. Hugs & Happiness x
Sweet Dreams Teressa, xxx and Happy Anniversary on the 14th!! Big hugs to you too x
You are so inspiring. Carry on Wendy waffling 😀.
will do! see you next week Melanie!! xxx
You have initiated my search of my inner warrior ! Thank you .
Grateful for your beautiful light of grace, encouragement you share with ❤️ love!!! Thank you 🙏🏻
Hibernation is a better way to look at the way that -even more in the past year. Thank goodness for James- he is truly supportive! You're right, we should follow our hearts and even dip our toes in the water (having a bit of faith in ourselves). Progress will certainly come! 🎨🌺🥰You're doing very well in your journey!☕
So true Maxine x
I've been watching your videos for about 7 months and wish I had found them sooner. I was working and up until 3 weeks ago, hD a full time job. I wasnt happy with it but it paid the bills. I painted in my spare time.. maybe once a month. I wanted to paint or sketch more but after work.. I didnt have much to give to anything or anyone.
I've never though I was good enough, however people are always commenting on my art. And each to their own.
I wish I knew how does a person believe they're good enough?
Lol your face when you said you were finally able to invest in professional art supplies😂
Oh my! this changed my world!!! I am still saving up for some things but new paints are so juicy!!!
Looks like you did well in terms of keeping things going during lockdown, I also lost my job after the first lockdown and had to reinvent myself and go through some uncomfortable times lots of chopping and changing of jobs and I still don't feel fully settled, much respect to you for going it alone Wendy and learning how to adapt and learning new ways to work, you have quite an entrepreneurial spirit, well done you 😀
I loved this video, both the positive energy and introspection. The encouragement to keep trying and follow your heart along with the need for self care. I lost my partner of 30 years last year. I a moving to a new apartment this month. I must get rid of many things, and carry meaningful things along with me. I've been doing a lot of journaling to help the process. I look forward to journaling while I watch your videos every Friday.
So sorry to hear you lost your partner. Soft hugs and good luck with your letting go of things... the meaningful things will carry the memories you need to hold. Keep journaling for definite. xxxxx
Thanks for being you!
Yay! x
You only need to read all of the comments to see the affect your videos have. You do inspire. I think it is your gentle soul which sings to all creatives as they understand ;)
Love that your journey brought you to us! Thanks for not making it all glittery and easy...sometimes 5he roughest road has the best views! Blessings!
Hi Wendy
I've been following you for many months now sharing your joy as your subscriber numbers grew, just as they should, and feeling supported to be real and vulnerable as you were on your wonderful channel. I hope to be as brave someday soon and take my place to shine and share too. Your story certainly uplifting though not without hard work I know. So happy that you were encouraged to take that leap of faith and create your own path. You are a breath of fresh air and a wonderful artist. Love and many blessings and I look forward to sharing coffee with you on here through more of your adventures.
I am so glad you stuck with your youtube channel, I didn't find you until a few months ago and truly enjoy your videos. I would never have seen your lovely art and wonderful personality it you had given up.
Thank You Wendy, you are authentic . Cant express how you and some other CZcamsrs have helped me follow my heart. I cant say enough how wonderful it is to see you each week. I concider you a friend, I have tea/ coffee when I draw , when I am about to go crazy , selfceare and dedication Not to give up. You hit on the noise this week. Thanks for sharing.. soft hugs and much love
Love having tea with you!!! So glad you enjoyed this video as it is my favourite to date! See you next time xxx
Love hearing about your journey! In November, I found your channel, and it has been a wonderful weekly benchmark for me to relax and begin healing in many ways. I opened a blank journal that I’ve had for 5(!) years and started writing. Your suggestion of painting over private journaling gave me the permission I needed to get it all out. Bless that paper! It’s now carrying a ton of words-and even more paint- and I feel remarkably lighter! Thank you Wendy. You are a blessing to so many I read here in the comments, and you have helped me as well. Many blessings to you and James, and I look forward to seeing what all is ahead for you guys! Hugs from Texas!
Wonderful I'm so glad to hear. Waving to you all the way in Texas ! xx
Hi WendY, What BeautifuL Frost ferns you have on your window you are a great teacher you are most sophisticated and adorably cute. Your. Hair looks Amazing love your pink glasses as well. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.💕😊
I didn’t realize that I started to watch you at the beginning of your CZcams journey. I absolutely love your videos and honestly look forward to when I see them in my inbox. Your calm, creative, loveliness shines through and makes me feel like I just had the most wonderful gift getting to hang out with a friend. ❤️😊❤️
Aww TY so much Melissa xxx much love and see you next week! x
Hi Wendy. I discovered your videos on Christmas Eve Eve and love how calming they are. I am a dabbler arts wise, singer, actress, very messy childlike beginner art journalist my real passion writing and I love your authenticity and the beautiful images you create and share in your videos. Thank you for reminding me life does not have to be a rat race, doing a million things at once. Love your coffee making and drinking! Much love so glad you are doing well. Xx
TY xxx no rat race!!
Thank you for everything you do. You’ve been a constant inspiration for me as I try to start my own brand, youtube channel and Etsy shop while I work full time. Everything you say in this video is really what I need right now to just muster through and keep going... 💖🙏
What a lovely, honest video. When you mentioned finding joy I really agreed. TFS! I let the ads play. 😉💙💙💙
Thank you for sharing so much from a beautiful soul place, authentic and real, kept me from staying in a depression cycle over the past year! Today finished a graphic drawing which is a milestone for me! Blessed and safe days!
Alice xxxx that's so wonderful xxx much love to you xx
Love your spirituality and gentle take on life . Thank you for your inspiration and cool videos!!
Thank you Kerry, much love x
So glad I found your channel! It has inspired me to start creating again. You are so needed in this world! Thanks for sharing your light ✨
Good evening Wendy, thank you for sharing your journey , it like a greiving it has different stages , and it take along time to work yourself though those . Like you I lost my job , but you have give me something to look forward to every Friday and have encouraged me to do journals, which happens . You are warm , and kind lady , and I love your Wendy waffle. Love and warm hugs Teresa 🤗 xxx
Thank you so much Teresa, it's been a hard time for so many and I send you soft hugs xxxxxx Glad you are doing your journals xxx
This is.the end to the following comment. Which blew away before I finished It... Yes. The non artístic yet artístic drawing has brought healing into.my little Life . Just as you.have mentioned in.one of your videos.
Thanks for that dear Wendy.
Ser you Next Week. Lovely week- end with James.
Thank you Wendy!! You are soothing🥰
So happy to hear this Annie thankyou xx
Love you Wendy!!
Thank you !!! Love you too!! xxxxxxx
Came across your video while browsing and I’m really glad I stopped to listen. What a lovely, honest, account of your experience. I’m so glad things have worked out for you. You’ve made me start to think of how I too could follow my bliss 😊
This was a lovely insight into how you got into this full time 🙂 my boyfriend has been supporting my freelance work since the pandemic and I feel so lucky. Having support is everything when following your dream! 🧚😇
Yes, so true, xxx
Your best video yet! Thank you for sharing your heart, your wisdom from experience and for inspiring us “to do our best and continue forward in hope.” 💖
TY Cindy, I really enjoyed making it, much love xx
I absolutely adore you, Wendy. I started watching your videos a couple of months ago, and your videos are so full of light and encouragement. I was not feeling well with morning sickness and caring for my first baby, as well, along with the dark cold winter that seemed to drag on (I live in Alaska). Watching your videos brightened my day and filled me up with inspiration. I am also an artist and really wanting to start making art part of my career. Thank you so so much for your courage in sharing your light with us around the world.
TY so much Jessica, so much love to you in Alaska xxxx hope you feel better soon. x
You really have done well for yourself in such a short time. Well done you. You are very inspiring.
Thanks Wendy you are so inspiring. A breath of fresh air for us all . You are supporting us really. X
well TY so much, believe me it's a true circle, I gain so much back!!!! xxxxx
What a fantastic and inspirational story. I will be watching from now on. Restores my faith that there are still some lovely genuine people out there
The people I work with in Care are horrid and I was beginning to despair. Bright Blessings to you and all who support your channel xxxxx
It's amazing how much your story resonates with me, and you've actually made a real difference to mine as well!
I've been a freelance illustrator for 20 years, getting by with a mottley assortment of commercial art commissions, a few lovely clients but also a lot of things that just didn't speak to me. Without realising it, over the years I'd gradually become more and more uptight, hung up on detail, and put huge pressure on myself to produce an immaculate, saleable end product. It began to feel very hollow. I am a depression/anxiety sufferer and it comes and goes, but last year I had a mini breakdown, completely lost confidence in my work and abilities, downed tools and basically curled up in a ball and hid for several months. (Like you I'm lucky enough to have an amazing partner, sadly we're separated by the North Sea until lockdown ends, but he's supported and been there for me throughout!).
For a while, even when I tried to paint, I was totally paralysed by the fear and the expectation of failure - I couldn't even bring myself to touch the materials. I have a degree in illustration but I felt unworthy to even consider myself an artist. Lockdown gave me a chance to quietly think and take stock, and I started by decluttering my house, which is old and a bit dark and felt like it was crowding in on me, then I decided it was time to declutter my head to match, and I plucked up the courage to get help with my depression.
That same week I discovered your channel, and it felt like finding a friend! Your art journalling was so encouraging and inspiring, I decided to give it a go. It was such a joy, and a relief - I played, I rediscovered my childhood self (she'd been there all the time but I couldn't see her!), I even cried over pages when so much came up from the past, and got cleared away. I set out to make tasteful pages in subtle colours but, before I knew it, there were peacocks and panthers and jewel colours appearing from nowhere! I feel like a great weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and it gave me the confidence to start painting again. I'd been very agoraphobic but I started going out more, spending time in the countryside, painting outdoors - I felt like I could finally get my hands in the earth, get back to what's real and rediscover my authenticity.
At the moment I'm in the process of completely relaunching my art career. Up until now I've mostly done detailed realism (I love the Pre-Raphaelites), but my new work is a complete change - free, abstract, experimental and full of textures. It's just a step, part of a process really, I know it'll evolve as I go, but I'm letting it happen naturally and trusting in the universe to (please) let it work out for the best! It's all a big leap of faith. The scariest part for me is launching an Etsy shop and starting to post more on social media - I've been putting it off but I'm planning on tackling that next - any advice would be really welcome!
Anyway, sorry about the long comment (Cat-waffle doesn't have the same ring, it sounds like a suspicious food!) - I just wanted to say a truly heartfelt thank you, you've made a lifechanging difference to me.
Just a thought - I wonder how many other people you've helped, without ever knowing or meeting them in person? :) Love and light. xxx
TY so much Cat, I would say re social media sharing... share when you are ready, if it feels uncomfortable it's not the right time or thing... xxx good luck!
Thank you Wendy! That sounds like excellent advice. 😊🌼🦋 Big hugs! xXx
It's really inspiring to me to hear how you built your business and your life, and how many new things you were willing to try outside of your comfort zone, and willing to keep at it until you learned more and got more comfortable. Thank you! I'm at a real time of transition in my life and I'm trying to build my life as a writer and creative person. You're a good example to me, a shero in believing in yourself and even in prioritizing your own self care. I am only learning to do that now in my 50s, after a very dysfunctional upbringing and pouring myself into raising my kids for so many year. Now I'm alone after my 31 yr marriage ended last spring, so it's all been a big adjustment and I'm learning to be kind to myself and care for myself, and find my own ways of staying inspired. It's all quite a journey, and art-journaling helps me help myself. Hugs and tea! 💜
wow lots of big transitions for you Theresa, happy journaling and writing!!!
I just thoroughly enjoy your energy and the way you do your videos. It's both quite grounding. 💜❤💙💚
We love you, Wendy 💕❤️
TY Jessica! xxxxxx
Been out of income since August of last year . I have been living on my 401 k that I cashed out and trying to figure out how to make income from home . THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing in this video . Thank you . It has inspired me to keep going . ❤❤❤❤
you totes got this!! xxx
I love how honest you are !
Thank you for explaining your wonderful personal journey so far,I think that you have achieved great things especially in these times of uncertainty for us all,as artists our energy is very sensitive to changes around us and sometimes our creative flow not always as free as we want it to be,but heh ho we ride those waves of uncertainty and just get on with what we enjoy doing most.Believe me we have all watched you grow these past few months seen your creativity blossom as it has done and enjoyed as ever seeing that unique smile you give out even if you think you may be having a grumpy day ! Life is all about balance and doing the things that we want to do,you have done wonderful paintings for your shop and sell they will.Now you are exploring inwardly yourself and making those vital adjustments that mean success,remember that saying 'Less is more' which is so true,sometimes we can work on an elaborate subject only to find a smaller painting will suffice to fulfill the desire to execute it and get it onto the canvas.You are now at that crossroads when you can look back at your success and build upon it fine tuning until it makes you happy,the journey is so exciting even the odd blips we can ride over them,above all remain that unique 'you' the Unexpected Gypsy after all is a magical and mystical name only given to those who deserve it,you certainly fit that category,sending you love and light in everything that you do.
All wise words Angel thank you xxx Thank you for being here with me xx
This was so helpful! Thank you for sharing. 💕
You are BEYOND inspiring... thank you THANK YOU so much for taking the leap and really going for it. I'm just now starting out on my own business and hit a wall of fear... so I really appreciate you sharing so honestly :) You have such a beautiful soul and that's reflected in your art....I'm sure you're helping so many people.
Thank you little sister💙 your spirit is so uplifting!🌻
woohoo and now you just lifted my spirits !!!
Love, love, love your videos! That bright light of yours spreading around the globe is SO inspiring...even when you say you are not feeling or having a good day. You feed the human spirit in us all. XO
Aww Wendy...... you are so authentically inspiring. 🥰 Don’t know how I found you and certainly glad the universe plopped you in my path💐 I’m so not sure where my path is leading and have a huge level of self doubt, yet I’m willing to start inching forwards..........let’s see where it takes me and I will certainly keep following you🙏☺️
baby steps........
Thank you for making these video's. They make me feel good and inspires me to go drawing and painting more.
ooh goody! happy creating Janine xxx and thanks for watching x
Thank you, I really needed this video at this moment!
And (early) HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
I’m so glad I had found your videos Wendy! I love to listen to your sweet, encouraging voice. I’m so glad that even in this rough year you persevered.
Tea! Funny I just made an order for Golden Glow (carrot, turmeric, ginger, pineapple, beet)!!! Personally, last year has been a personal growth year. I am happy you listened to James! Hip hip hooray for James👏👏👏👏 Keep being the best version of yourself, especially the waffling part. It’s my favorite!!!xxxxx🌟🌟🌟🌟
Hi Regina, xx loads of love and TY for being here keeping me in such good company! Xxxx