Do you have a wish that you've put off, or that starts with "I always wished I had"? I always wished I had gone to art college. So I'm doing it! I've been accepted to NSCAD University to do a Visual Arts Certificate in Studio: fashion/textiles, and I start in January. Going back to school at 68 is something I'm doing just for the joy of it. I can't wait to see how it influences my art. (I'll cover what this new chapter means for my business below.)
Word for 2025 Have you chosen your word for 2025? A word to give you focus and to gently remind yourself of your hopes for this coming year? You can read about my word for 2025 in this blog post Grace for 2025.
What does this mean for my business? I've put the next season of Renegade Conversations on hold at least until the spring. If I can find a sponsor to cover my editing costs plus the cost of hiring
someone to do all of the work associated with publishing a podcast I will be able to publish Season Five in fall 2025. I can find and record Renegade Conversations in the spring/summer. There are about 20 steps to getting a podcast published and on social media that if I had the funds to hire someone I could continue with Renegade Conversations during school.
I have loved doing Renegade Conversations. I have met so many incredible women doing courageous and fun things. And I've made some friends along the way. So I'm putting it out there to the Universe to help me find a way to continue!
In the meantime, there are so many excellent Renegade Conversations for you to catch up on.You can access Renegade Conversations on YouTube here. Don't forget to subscribe tomy YouTube channel . Or if you prefer to listen only, the audio version is available on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
I will continue with this Heart Notes newsletter, but on an infrequent basis. Expect me to share what I'm learning and being inspired by at art school! My weekly
Creating Space journaling and sketching prompts will continue until at least June. I will be keeping my website (including my online shop, blog and gallery) active, so please visit often.
New - I'm on
Substack! I've recently joined substack and plan to write short essays about student life, going back to school as a senior citizen, what is inspiring me and more. I'm still working out how to use the platform, but you can find and follow me @merylcook. Stay tuned!
Check out my latest Artworks in progress below. I hope you like them!
Keep reading for Upcoming Classes and Events and more.
New designs in my Wearable Art Clothing line, based on a piece of artwork in my Renegade series called 'Hats were her statement'. For more information and to order click here.
I love sending you these notes from my heart. It means so much to me that you take the time to read and sometimes even hit reply! Thanks so much for reading.
Warmly,
Meryl Cook Engagement by Design artist,author, speaker and facilitator. "Colour, texture, joy and self compassion" are the core principles of my business and life. Helping you to find your voice and be wild with purpose.
Booking now for 2025 Limited spots available for speaking, workshop and team building facilitation and custom designs for your conference or organization (in person or virtual).
Creating SpaceYou want to make time to create, a space to feel and think. You want to use your art and creativity (journaling, sketching) to find a sense of purpose and express your inner self. Sign up for this FREE resource today. For more information and to register today.
Please share with kindred spirits!
Artwork in Progress I hooked a small rug for my sunroom called Abundance Too. It’s about letting go of expectations and trusting that whatever unfolds is meant to be. I pictured releasing a handful of my Chakra circles and watching where they land. You can see it on my Instagram .
As mentioned above, I've been adding new patterns and designs to my Wearable Art Clothing line. I hope you'll visit and let me know what you love. Check back often, as my intention is to add new designs regularly while I am at art
school.
If you would like to own one of my fibre art creations, take a look at my gallery or contact me. Custom designs also available. If you have a
favourite jean jacket and would like an original jean jacket art design hooked by me, contact me.