Top Three in 2022
Growing in Every Way
Beginning 2022, I knew there would be some expansion on the personal front- we were due with our third baby early February- but I did not know Audrey, this bright ray I did not know I needed in my life, was also right around the corner.
Photo by Jennifer Hopkins
Audrey has been an amazing addition to the Easel on Stribling team! (which prior to her, was only Kristin ;))
From meeting baby Lottie to welcoming Audrey into the mix, to meeting new people in this wonderful USNA family, we are overjoyed with people.
2. Collaborations
Last year, I felt with more conviction that “collaboration” was a significant value of Easel on Stribling. Over the years, joint projects have crept their way into this space (for example, the signature ornament with Forever Firstie!), but the more I sat with it, the more I realized how much it mattered to me.
This year, a few conversations turned into projects. Most notably….
A phone call on Dec 31, 2021 turned into a full blown exhibition at the U.S. Pentagon this fall, in collaboration with the USNA Museum and the wonderful historian who works in the SECNAV’s office. We worked hand in hand to put it together
In the Spring, I had the opportunity to paint a commission alongside the class of 1983 as a gift for the Herndon Bell Monument.
Recording an episode for Preble Podcast! We talk art, history, and some clues I like to drop in my paintings. Listen here
The cutest additions to our shop, from signature candles to a USNA themed bracelet stack. Plus more ideas for 2023!!
This photo may need to resurface in about 18 years :) It was a total dream to meet the Secretary of the Navy and talk about art!
3. The Book
The coffee table book is available for preorder now! Visit https://www.amidshipmansjourney.com/ to get your signed copy.
From the beginning of it all (and when I say beginning, I mean as a sweaty plebe in 2007), a coffee table book about life on the Yard was my goal.
Last year, I let you know that I was planning on one last painting series for the book, featuring fall on the Yard (do not worry, it may have been the last planned series, but I’m far from being done with painting the Naval Academy!).
With the new baby and my personal obligations to finish my MFA in Visual Art, I knew one series was doable but highly doubted the book would get underway.
In my last semester of grad school (March 2022), a professor encouraged me to simply make the first move- research publishing options and put it out there. Between babies and thesis and spinning all the plates, I was hesitant but did it anyways.
Long story short, the book is days away from being sent to production (which means a springtime publish date!). In every way, it has been one of the hardest (but also most rewarding) creative ventures I’ve ever embarked on. It’s what I’m most excited about getting to your hands in 2023!
What’s more, finishing a goal simply makes space for a new one. I can see more clearly the next vision for Easel on Stribling, and cannot wait to create them for you!
