Coming Home & Looking Back
Ok, so the year is ending. My body is half pickled and rotted from the holiday season. Normally, this would be a time for me to do a 2024 wrap up post or maybe a looking forward one talking about resolutions for 2025.
Instead, I’d like to focus on my recent month long art residency in Mexico City! It was without a doubt the highlight of my year and I’m just starting to digest what really came of all of it for me as an artist but mostly just as a person. Let’s break it down!
Creating a Little Community in a Big City
One of the most surprising parts of the residency was how quickly we, a small group of artists, formed our own little “town” within the sprawling chaos of Mexico City. We were situated in a neighbourhood called Tlalpan which felt very much like it’s own small town within the city. It was as if Tlalpan was it’s own entity until the sprawl of Mexico City swallowed it whole. It maintains it’s town square and small town feel, I fell so in love.
Pushing Boundaries and Getting Uncomfortable
I’ll be honest — at first, I was a little (a lot) intimidated. I definitely did some “I’m entirely out of my depth” crying. Impostor syndrome hit me particularly hard after an evening of sharing our stories with the other artists in the residency. But that’s exactly what I needed. I pushed myself creatively in ways I hadn’t expected. The uncertainty was uncomfortable, yes, but it was also a catalyst for some extreme growth.
Incredible Friendships and Support
The friendships I made during this residency were, hands down, one of the best parts. The group of artists I met were not just talented but genuinely kind and supportive. We learned from each other, shared struggles, and celebrated each other’s wins. It was like having a built-in creative support system, and it made the whole experience feel even more special.
Lessons Learned: Art and Life
Looking back, I realize this residency wasn’t just about making art — it was about learning to take risks, embrace vulnerability, and accept that growth often comes from discomfort. I learned to trust myself more and take creative leaps. Really small changes and ideas felt significant and inspiring.
What’s Next?
As I return to my routine, I feel more confident in my creative voice. This experience in Mexico City has taught me to push my boundaries, to seek out supportive communities, and to stay open to new opportunities for growth. I’m already excited for what’s next — but for now, I’m just grateful for this transformative chapter in my artistic journey.
