Eightspiration: 0524
Each month seems to fly by, but I find it essential to document these moments to reflect on what I see, how I grow, and the beauty that surrounds me. So, with that, MAY I share with you the inspirations and experiences that made my May truly unforgettable?
My eight inspirations from May 2024:
1. Seabrook, WA: The dreamiest coastal town
Seabrook is a town so perfectly tailored to luxury vacationers that its charm borders on the surreal. Yet, I would choose it any day of the week. I recently had the pleasure of staying there in exchange for a custom piece of art and had the best time. I took my friends to explore the nearby Quinault and Hoh Rainforests, hiked along the beach, and indulged in everything Seabrook had to offer. If you have a vacation rental and are interested in trading a stay for art, I would love to take you up on that offer
VISIT SEABROOK | SEE MY CUSTOM SEABROOK PAINTING
2. May WILDFlowers: Sponsored by April Showers
I was truly blessed this month to hike Manastash frequently and revel in the endless wildflower blooms. The beauty and inspiration they provided daily were beyond words! These vibrant flowers are now serving as inspiration for an upcoming collection I'm working on, where I will be painting local wildflowers in the style of my Dutch ancestors. Stay tuned until October 2024 to see what I mean!
CHECK OUT THE STUNNING LOCAL WILDFLOWERS
3. A Quick Binge: The Wedding Scammer
While working on some artwork this month, I stumbled upon an intriguing podcast to binge: "The Wedding Scammer." This podcast delves into the story of a mysterious figure who had wronged the host in the past. The scammer, a man with numerous aliases and a history of failed businesses, left a trail of victims in his wake. The host follows his journey through a sham media company, a string of ruined weddings, and beyond, in search of answers.
4. OVERWHELM: The Good Kind
Lately, I've been profoundly moved by the overwhelming love of God and felt inspired to capture it in the powerful way I sometimes imagine it. I'm awestruck when I reflect on His love: "A love that is lavished on us (1 John 3:1). A love whose height and depth we could never exhaust or fully understand (Ephesians 3:14-19). A love that finds us no matter where we go (Psalm 139:7-10)."
5. Time to GROW: with Jennie Allen
This year, I discovered author and speaker Jennie Allen, and I’m already halfway through two of her books. They’ve been stretching me in many ways! One key lesson I've learned is that many of us need to unlearn damaging messages about our emotions. We've been taught that emotions are untrustworthy, but God can use them to show us where we need His healing. To embrace this, we need to build tight, honest communities of people around us who also want to grow.
6. Building My Community: Through the Arts
After much anticipation, a long-awaited project came to fruition this month! As part of the Bird Show at Nuwave Gallery, I had the pleasure of collaborating with design students from Central Washington University. This experience reconnected me with my roots as a graphic designer and reignited my passion for supporting all kinds of creatives. Highlighting the beauty of local birds alongside talented artists has been truly amazing. I look forward to growing my skills in promoting the talents of many others in the future.
7. Look UP: The 5th Wall
I may have developed a bit of an obsession with ceiling murals over the last few months... so much so that I've started creating my own in my house! I'm excited to finish them soon and share the results. What I love about ceiling murals is how they can add movement and color to a space without overwhelming it.
8. My Latest Beau: A Gentleman in Moscow
I love winding down with a good show now and then. This month, I came across "A Gentleman in Moscow," a British television limited series comprising 8 episodes. Based on Amor Towles' 2016 novel, the show is beautifully filmed and follows the story of Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov, an aristocrat who returns to Russia from Paris. Following the October Revolution, he is sentenced to house arrest by a Bolshevik tribunal and spends decades banished to an attic hotel room.
Well, those are my inspirations for the month. Catch me later on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or in person at Nuwave Gallery!
WRITTEN BY CONTEMPORARY WASHINGTON ARTIST ERIN OOSTRA:
Erin Oostra, a contemporary painter and visual designer, is renowned for her impressionistic artworks that draw inspiration from the stunning landscapes of Washington State. Her unique blend of strategic visual design expertise and a passion for bold, abstract painting results in captivating, multi-disciplinary creations.
With strong, fluid strokes, Erin's latest pieces vividly capture her profound admiration for the awe-inspiring yet perilous beauty of nature. Her work graces the walls of galleries, restaurants, cafes, event venues, wineries, and breweries throughout the Pacific Northwest, reflecting the diverse and vibrant spirit of the region.
As the proud owner and curator of NUWAVE GALLERY in Ellensburg, WA, Erin continues to expand her artistic influence. Beyond gallery exhibitions, she lends her artistic touch to city wall murals and live painting events, adding a subtle yet engaging form of entertainment to weddings, grand openings, and intimate dinner parties. Erin also collaborates closely with individual clients, offering a personalized touch through custom artwork that resonates with their unique vision. If you're seeking distinctive, custom PNW art, Erin Oostra's creations seamlessly blend nature's allure with artistic brilliance.
