Goodbye to 2012
I’ve just read a blog post that’s prompted me to write this, it’s often at this time of year that we reflect.
On New years eve 12 months ago I sat on my own & saw the New Year in, preferring to do so so as I didn’t have to put a brave face on in front of family & friends. Looking back I enjoyed bringing the new year in on my own and 12 months ago I didn’t know how I was going to get through 2012.
It’s funny how life sometimes pans out when things are very bad indeed… And that’s what happened in 2012!
During 2011 my husband of 20 years just left with no warning & no looking back…. I was left to pick up the pieces & I did.
That was the start of a very hard time & then the beginning of something incredible.
I was left exhausted & not knowing if I could manage or keep the lease on my studio I picked myself up & gave crowdfunding a go: that was the beginning of an incredible year: 2012!
Whilst I was crowdfunding I went to an opening of an exhibition at Deda in Derby & I had my business cards & crowdfunding flyers at the ready: along came an artist and we chatted & swapped business cards… a chance meeting that has developed into a wonderful relationship.
I managed to raise just over £1700 via crowdfunding with the help supporters, starngers and many old & new friends: And thanks to them I signed the new lease on 1st April 2012.
there have been moments when life has been hard & I’ve had to deal with things that I’d rather not have to deal with, it’s all been worth it.
I’m faced with similar dilemma’s at the end of this year & I’m currently making decisions as to how to go forward. But there is one thing that I am certain of & its that I am on the right track & I am incredibly happy.
So this is a big thankyou to everyone that has helped to make 2012 a great year for me & the studio: all my friends, family, new acquaintances, new friends in Cromford & Derbyshire, old friends that have been in touch & for all the kindness that many of you have given & shared with me, thanks to all the artists that took part in the Salon exhibitions, to all the people who I’ve got to know via facebook, twitter & wordpress: thanks for all of your support!
The painting above is ‘Swept Away’ and recently sold at The Derby Open 2012 at The Derby Museum & Art Gallery and is descriptive of how I have felt this year!
All the very best to all of you & may 2013 bring with it health, love & happiness!
What a lovely blog. So glad you turned things around so successfully.
Blwyddyn Newydd Dda
Happy New Year Rosie!
So glad you managed to turn things around, Rachael, from such difficult circumstances. Well done and all the best for 2013.
Thans Mari! Happy New Year!
I don’t know if you realise this, but in struggling on in the face of adversity, with so much grace that most people probably had little idea of the challenges you were conquering, you have been a quiet but strong inspiration to many other artists struggling with their own dilemmas. Just achieving what you achieved in 2012 has given lift to the wings of many other people. That’s no small achievement and you should take considerable pride in it. Wishing you a very happy new year and may it be the best year ever for you.
Thanks Michael! What a wonderful thing to say, it’s been tough & at many points I considered going back to full time employment in my previous line of work I’m now extremely glad that I didn’t.
I guess I write my blog for a few reasons & to hear that the blog has been an inspiration to others makes it worthwhile. Many thanks for your very kind words & all the very best for 2013!