Gratitude Beyond Words

As the year winds down and the air fills with the spirit of Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me here—one brushstroke at a time. When I started this series in the early months of 2024, I had no idea how profoundly it would transform my life.

It all began with a bold declaration during the Landmark Worldwide workshop "Creating 2024." I committed to finding something I truly enjoyed painting and making it a reality. What began as a simple goal soon became a calling, leading to a new chapter filled with creativity, challenges, and growth. (*By the way, I’ll be participating in the "Creating 2025" Landmark event on January 11, 2025—if you’re curious, check it out here!)

To Everyone Who Helped Me Get Here
I owe so much to the people who have supported me along the way. It feels impossible to name them all, but here are just a few moments of gratitude that stand out:

• To the buddy who first encouraged me to pick up a brush and get started—you planted the seed that blossomed into this journey.
• To my sexy friend who helped with the building blocks of the business, offering free lawyerly advice... I would not have started without you.
• To my website developer, who has met every challenge, and offered advice and expertise.
• To the guy at the bank, who, beyond setting up my business account, offered invaluable advice on connecting with groups in the area.
• To the models themselves, who have trusted me to capture their essence and contribute their unique beauty to this project.
• To the friend who stood by me at my first show, SKIN! in Tampa, cheering me on and celebrating this milestone.
• To those who offered business advice, marketing insight, or even a few photos—I couldn’t have done this without you.
• And to the thousands who have viewed my work in 2024, whether in person or online, your support and appreciation mean more than words can express.

The Art of Connection
This series is about so much more than painting. It’s about connection—between artist and subject, art and viewer, and among everyone who has contributed to this creative journey. From the smallest gesture of encouragement to a monumental push of support, every single person has left their mark, just like each brushstroke contributes to the whole of a painting.

As I continue forward, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement for what’s to come. I’ll be kicking off the new year with the "Creating 2025" Landmark event, and I can’t wait to see how the next chapter unfolds.

A Simple Thank You
So, on this Thanksgiving week, I simply want to say thank you. Thank you to the friends, professionals, models, collaborators, and viewers who have believed in me, inspired me, and helped make this dream a reality. Your kindness, generosity, and trust have been the fuel for this journey.

Here’s to art, connection, and gratitude—today and always.

Warmly,
Ali