Hello, friends! As we step into a new year, I want to share a slice of inspiration that’s been fueling my creative spirit.
If you’re like me, the end of the year can feel like a whirlwind—projects piling up, deadlines looming, and all those holiday to-dos. It’s easy to lose sight of the joy of creating and the power of inspiration. That’s exactly why I’m kicking off 2025 by reconnecting with something that’s been sparking my imagination lately.
Just before Christmas, I hit pause and jetted off to Marrakech, Morocco. Back in August, I had one of those rare moments of foresight to “just book it,” and thank goodness I did because finding time for a break lately feels like chasing a mirage.
Walking around the Medina (the old town) felt like stepping straight into Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities. You know how we reach for familiar references to make sense of new experiences? For me, it was this surreal work of fiction that kept resurfacing in my mind. The buildings in Marrakech are modest and low-slung, so different from the grand piazzas of Italy or the towering skyscrapers of New York. At first glance, their simple exteriors seem to promise equally simple interiors, but here’s the magic: behind those unassuming facades are sprawling courtyards, lush with gardens, piles of richly woven rugs, and spices so vibrantly colorful they almost hum.
Everywhere I looked, there were colors that made my eyes dance and my mind spark. Tiles, spices, painted walls—Marrakech’s vibrancy has stayed with me, weaving its way into my studio work ever since I returned. In fact, I came back with a treasure trove of photos brimming with color inspiration, fueling endless exploration in the studio. Now, I want to share these sparks of inspiration with you.
So, here’s the plan:
For the first few weeks of 2025 (or until I run out of steam—place your bets!), I’ll be sharing these color studies on Facebook and Instagram. Each photo will feature a curated color palette, quilt square ideas, and a Quilt Tattoo™ with an empowering word—a reminder that creativity is a radical act with the power to uplift and inspire. Let’s celebrate how art and design bring joy, connection, and resilience to every project. My hope is that these snapshots ignite your creativity just as they’ve fueled mine.
Here’s to a vibrant, inspired 2025—let’s make it a year of bold colors and even bolder designs. Happy New Year, everyone!