The Value of Trying Something New
Beach Bliss II, a small experiment, and a reminder worth sharing

The other day, after listening to a short talk that caught my attention, I did what usually happens when something resonates with me—I wandered into the studio. No grand plan. No agenda. Just the quiet urge to paint.

Like many artists I know, I’ve watched friends post short videos of their work on Instagram—little glimpses into how a piece comes together. I’ve always enjoyed seeing them, but I’ve never felt much pressure to do the same. Painting itself has always been enough.

Still, curiosity nudged me.

So I decided to show up and try something new. I painted a small piece that became Beach Bliss II, and along the way experimented with new software that made it surprisingly easy to capture a quick, 30-second look at how the painting came together. Nothing instructional. Just a peek behind the curtain.

Adding this to my workday wasn’t seamless—but it was worthwhile.

Watch the Creation

Showing Up Doesn’t Always Mean Doing More
Sometimes showing up means doing something slightly different. Not changing direction—just widening the lens. The painting still mattered most, but sharing a glimpse of the process added a new layer to the experience.

Small Experiments Keep Things Fresh
Trying new tools or approaches doesn’t require a major commitment. This was a small experiment, but it reminded me how energizing it can be to remain curious—even after years of doing the work.

Process Invites Connection
What I like about the short video isn’t that it explains anything—it doesn’t. What it does offer is a moment to pause and see how a painting unfolds. Behind every finished piece are quiet decisions, revisions, and time.

That’s part of the story too.

In the end, this wasn’t about technology or technique. It was about being willing to show up, try something new, and share the journey along the way.

So I’ll leave you with a simple question:

What small experiment might be worth showing up for—just to see what it teaches you?