A Name Begins a New Chapter

Welcome Friends,

Here it is - my first blog posting for my new art "business." After intense brainstorming and inner battling of words and phrases, I sought the advice of my friends on Facebook to jumpstart my confidence on a NAME. Who would have thought the decision of a company name could be so emotionally grueling? Yet it feels very permanent, much like naming a baby or a new pet. My original favorite was "Heart of Nature," but it turns out that there are already (at least) two art-related businesses in the online universe utilizing that title. Then my friend Jon Pringle, also a photography enthusiast, suggested "Nature Heart."

And so here I am, in the local coffee shop (Block Gallery) preparing for the "beginning." Creating art has been at the heart of my being since my earliest years. In the summer of 2009 I entered my first art contest - the Champlain Valley Fair's exhibition - and brought home a 3rd place for my photo "Fair Parade Percherons" and Honorable Mention for "Dragonfly Trio." This provided the needed catalyst for me to stop and say, I can try this. I will do this. A few months later, I heard that my workplace was holding a Holiday Craft Show for employees. Excitingly, several hand painted ornaments and photography prints were sold to friends and co-workers.

More and more people ask me "can you do this for me?" and I realize now that why not pursue a dream? Art is who I am, it is fundamental to my self happiness. As an outlet in a daily cubicle setting, I tend to doodle on post-its or create mini "paintings" on white boards around my department. I long to do more. Much more.

Hence, now "Nature Heart Studio" is born. I hope it will have your blessings...it is truly my infant child... :)

I hope you will follow me as I continue down the journey of artist, love and the heart of nature...

...truly..."art" is in the "heart"...
Karen Lloyd