I am sat here at my desk figuring out my first journal entry. Who am I? How did I get here? What is this space on the internet going to be? You may be asking these questions, but I am also asking them to myself as well. It’s hard to pinpoint what I want this space to be. I’m thinking it’ll be where I share some of my personal work, and behind the scenes. Share inspirations. Aspirations. Follow along with me, and we’ll find out together ;)

Who am I? And how did I get here? Well, I’m Julie and at 49 years old, I’m at a place where reevaluating my life is at the forefront. My partner Jeff and I don't have any kids. We live in Nova Scotia, Canada. We love to travel. As for career, I come from a background of computer animation. It’s an industry commonly known for its peaks and valleys of employment. Contracts start and end. Projects start but suddenly get cancelled. Some studios shutter their doors altogether. I’ve experienced all three scenarios. This time, the second scenario is my current situation and that was as of November 2023.

All I know is, I’m at a not-so-quiet time where I’m not working for anyone. There is a sense of freedom to it, but it’s actually a scary time since I am a creature of structure. I also say not-so-quiet, because so many things run through my head, creating a constant whirring which makes me freeze from indecision, get lost in multiple directions, and outright fear. What should I do next? Will it work? “How much is it gonna cost me?” It’s relentless.

As of a few months ago, I imagined I’d make a small but mighty business for myself focusing on my artwork. Whether through licensing, running an online shop or selling at a local market, I just wanted to share my artwork. Again, thoughts race “Will anyone like my artwork?” “Will anyone like it enough to buy it?” “Is this sustainable?” Again, relentless.

During this time of unemployment, I’ve taken some online classes. I’ve collected several over the years since 2020 (remember those days?). I was in the mindset of “I’ll take this when I have time” or “When my contract ends”. The time presented itself finally, and I managed to complete a couple of them. However, a 5 week programme to start up your business is not realistic. I tend to dwell, over-research, over analyse. I planned to be at a certain point after 6 months, but I did not accomplish it. I am proud of my small achievements though. Daily actions over time people always say. Let’s see how I am in another 6 months.

So I guess I am convinced. I intend to have this space as a way to document my growth as an artist and business owner. I will share my attempts, failures and successes. And I said in the beginning: my inspirations and aspirations. Follow along with me, and we’ll find out together. :)

-J

New Beginnings #001

growth #002