When you start a new chapter in your life, there's a sense of excitement and nostalgia that comes with it. For me, graduating in the same city that I visited when accepted into an art show for the National Watercolor Society holds a special place in my heart. Going back to school was a tough decision, but nearly six years ago, I had an itch to continue my education. At the time, I was on the board of directors for the National Watercolor Society. I joined the board a year after being accepted into one of their Members' Exhibitions as the Web Director, which put me in charge of their website, social media, and exhibition entries. I had the opportunity to help put together the exhibitions, which brought me back to Los Angeles and San Pedro once a year.
NWS is one of the two most prestigious watercolor societies in the United States, so it was a huge honor to be involved. Unfortunately, I resigned from the board in 2019 when my marriage unexpectedly fell apart. Nonetheless, I powered through school during the pandemic, after reeling from my divorce, and finally completed my dissertation and oral defense for my Doctorate in Business Administration from California Southern University. When I found out the graduation ceremony was taking place in Long Beach, California, only 10 minutes from San Pedro, I was thrilled to make new memories with my family in such a brilliant place. When I returned last week, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound impact San Pedro, California, has had on my artistic journey.
Artistic Inspiration
Long before I received my cap and gown, I had the privilege of attending many National Watercolor Society exhibitions in this vibrant city. The experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Walking through the gallery, I was surrounded by breathtaking paintings created by some of the most talented watercolor artists on earth. The vibrancy of colors, the delicate brushwork, and the sheer creativity on display left an indelible mark on my artistic soul.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
As I navigated my academic journey, I had to take a five-year hiatus from making art consistently. It took every minute to complete the coursework for my program. I pursued a DBA to help other artists make a living creating art. How ironic that I would return to San Pedro for graduation, like a pathway back to my artistic roots. It allowed me to close a chapter in life and reopen the chapter that represents who I am - an artist!
Connections
One of the most beautiful aspects of my journey to NWS and San Pedro was the people I met. The NWS art community is tight-knit and incredibly supportive. I connected with fellow artists on social media, collaborating with them, attending workshops and events, and forging lifelong connections with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for watercolor.
Graduating in San Pedro allowed me to share great restaurants and experiences with my family. My husband, Andre, my good friend, Stefani, my parents, and my boys attended my graduation, and we turned the trip into a great family vacation. We toured LA, rode bikes from Venice to Santa Monica, went whale watching, and had the best time. It was wonderful to make new memories in a place that meant so much to me.
A Grateful Heart
Now that I am done with my DBA and stepping into the world beyond, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, inspiration, and opportunities San Pedro gave to me. The National Watercolor Society served as a constant reminder of the boundless possibilities that exist in the world of art. It ignited my creative spirit and encouraged me to embrace my journey as an artist.
Graduating in the same city where I discovered the National Watercolor Society has given my journey a unique and meaningful narrative. I'm excited to take the experiences and memories with me as I step into the next chapter of my life, knowing that I carry the city's artistic spirit and the vibrant colors of my creative journey.
As I move forward, I'll always look back on this city with fondness and gratitude, remembering the town that became the backdrop to my artistic evolution and graduation, and a symbol of endless inspiration.