Mindful Matter
The Power of Affirmation Cards: How They Can Transform Your Life
Affirmation cards have become increasingly popular in recent years as a tool for personal growth and self-improvement. These cards help individuals focus on positive affirmations, powerful statements designed to shift their mindset and improve overall well-being. By incorporating affirmation cards into their daily routine, individuals can experience transformative changes in their lives. Understanding the Concept of Affirmation Cards Affirmation cards are simple yet powerful tools that allow individuals to reprogram their negative thought patterns and beliefs. They typically consist of small cards or pieces of paper with positive affirmations written on them. These affirmations can range from statements about self-love and self-acceptance to affirmations about success and abundance. The intention behind using affirmation cards is to reinforce positive thoughts and beliefs, ultimately leading to positive change. The Origin and Purpose of Affirmation Cards Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks pioneered the concept of using affirmations for personal development. In ancient Egypt, people used hieroglyphs to depict positive affirmations and prayers, believing them to transform their mindsets. Similarly, in ancient Greece, philosophers like Epictetus encouraged the use of positive self-talk as a means to cultivate inner strength and resilience. However, the practice gained widespread popularity in the 20th century with the rise of New Thought and positive psychology movements. Influential figures like Louise Hay, known as the "mother of affirmations," popularized the use of affirmation cards to reframe negative thoughts and promote self-empowerment. Affirmation cards serve as visual reminders of positive statements that individuals can repeat to themselves, helping to reinforce positive thinking and cultivate a more optimistic outlook. The Psychology Behind Affirmation Cards Scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of using affirmations to improve mental well-being. Research suggests that affirmations can help individuals shift their negative mindset to a positive one by rewiring neural pathways in the brain. When individuals repetitively think and recite positive affirmations, they can create new neural connections that support positive thinking and boost self-esteem. Furthermore, using affirmation cards can also tap into the power of visualization. Individuals can create vivid mental images of their desired reality by reading and internalizing positive statements. This process activates the brain's visual cortex, enhancing the individual's ability to imagine and manifest positive outcomes. In addition, physically holding and engaging with affirmation cards can provide a tactile experience that reinforces the positive message. Touching and flipping through the cards can create a sensory connection, making the affirmations more tangible and memorable. Overall, using affirmation cards combines psychological principles with ancient wisdom, offering individuals a practical and accessible tool to transform their mindset and create positive change in their lives. By incorporating these cards into their daily routine, individuals can harness the power of positive affirmations to cultivate self-belief, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being. Photo by Thought Catalog The Different Types of Affirmation Cards Affirmation cards come in various designs and themes, making it easy for individuals to find ones that resonate with their needs and desires. Here are some common types of affirmation cards: Affirmation Cards for Self-Love Self-love affirmation cards focus on cultivating self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-compassion. They often contain statements encouraging individuals to embrace their uniqueness and practice self-care. These cards can serve as powerful reminders to prioritize self-love and nurture a positive relationship with oneself. By incorporating affirmations like "I am enough" and "I deserve love and kindness," individuals can work towards building a strong sense of self-worth and acceptance. Affirmation Cards for Anxiety and Stress Relief These affirmation cards can help individuals reduce anxiety and manage stress. They typically include affirmations that promote relaxation, calmness, and inner peace. When faced with overwhelming feelings of anxiety or stress, these cards can offer a sense of comfort and reassurance. Affirmations such as "I am calm and centered" and "I release all tension from my body" can help create a peaceful mindset and promote emotional well-being. Affirmation Cards for Motivation and Success These affirmation cards aim to inspire and motivate individuals to set goals, take action, and achieve success. They may include perseverance, determination, and a success mindset affirmations. By incorporating powerful statements like "I am capable of achieving my dreams" and "I have the strength to overcome any obstacle," these cards can ignite a sense of motivation and drive within individuals. They serve as constant reminders to stay focused, work hard, and believe in one's ability to reach new heights of success. How to Use Affirmation Cards Effectively While affirmation cards can be a powerful tool, using them effectively is essential to reap the full benefits. Here are some tips on how to use affirmation cards effectively: Affirmation cards are about positive thinking and creating a mindset shift toward self-empowerment and growth. Choosing the right affirmation cards sets the foundation for a transformative journey toward achieving your goals and manifesting your desires. Choosing the Right Affirmation Cards for You When selecting affirmation cards, choosing ones that resonate with your personal goals and desires is crucial. Take the time to review different options and select cards that genuinely inspire and uplift you. Consider the themes that speak to your current aspirations: self-love, abundance, success, or inner peace. The more aligned you are with the affirmations on the cards, the more profound their impact will be on your mindset and actions. Incorporating Affirmation Cards into Your Daily Routine Developing a consistent practice is the key to harnessing the power of affirmation cards. Consider incorporating them into your morning routine, bedtime routine, or any other daily ritual that allows you to focus on self-improvement. Integrating affirmation cards into your daily life creates a sacred space for reflection, intention setting, and personal growth. Each time you engage with the cards, you reinforce a positive mindset and nurture a belief in your ability to create the life you desire. Tips for Maximizing the Impact of Affirmation Cards To maximize the impact of affirmation cards, you can read them aloud, visualize the affirmations, or even create a vision board using the cards. The key is to engage with the affirmations on a deeper level to reinforce positive beliefs. Embrace the affirmations wholeheartedly, embodying the feelings and emotions associated with them. Allow yourself to immerse in the energy of each affirmation, letting it resonate with your being on a profound level. By infusing your daily practices with the power of affirmation cards, you are opening yourself up to a world of endless possibilities and transformation. Photo by Erriko Boccia The Potential Benefits of Using Affirmation Cards By consistently using affirmation cards, individuals can experience a wide range of benefits in various aspects of their lives. Here are some potential benefits: Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence with Affirmation Cards Repeating positive affirmations can help individuals overcome self-doubt, boost their self-esteem, and develop a strong sense of self-worth. These affirmations serve as reminders of their inherent value and capabilities. Using Affirmation Cards for Stress Management and Relaxation Affirmation cards can provide individuals with a sense of calm and relaxation, especially when dealing with stressful situations. By focusing on positive statements, individuals can shift their attention away from stress and embrace a more peaceful state of mind. Enhancing Focus and Productivity with Affirmation Cards Affirmation cards can also improve focus and productivity. When individuals repeat affirmations related to their goals and aspirations, they prime their minds for success and increase their motivation to take action. But the benefits of using affirmation cards go beyond that. In addition to boosting self-esteem, managing stress, and enhancing focus, these powerful tools can also profoundly impact relationships. By incorporating affirmation cards into daily interactions, individuals can cultivate healthier and more positive connections with others. Imagine starting your day by choosing an affirmation card that focuses on love and compassion. As you go about your day, you carry that intention with you, radiating kindness and understanding towards others. By consciously practicing these affirmations, you create an environment of positivity and harmony, fostering deeper connections and nurturing meaningful relationships. Furthermore, affirmation cards can be a valuable tool for personal growth and development. By regularly using them, individuals can explore and challenge their limiting beliefs, opening up new possibilities for growth and self-improvement. These cards serve as gentle reminders to step outside of one's comfort zone, embrace change, and embrace the full potential of one's abilities. In conclusion, affirmation cards have the power to transform lives by helping individuals shift their mindset, develop a more positive outlook, and overcome self-limiting beliefs. By incorporating affirmation cards into their daily routine and choosing the right cards that resonate with their goals, individuals can tap into their inner power and create lasting positive change. So, why not start harnessing the power of affirmation cards today and see the potential transformation in your life? Empower yourself with the power of positivity. Get your Affirmation Cards from Holstee today!
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Q&A with June Park
This month’s art is by Brooklyn, New York based illustrator, June Park. June is a Korean-American graphic designer, illustrator, house plant enthusiast and charcuterie lover! She says her Reflection art "was inspired by [her] own deep reflection over the past few years." June wanted to "create a reminder for [herself] and others to grow from the lessons learned without holding onto the mistakes of the past." For a little more about June, here's a short Q&A. Where is home for you? I'm currently living in a quiet corner of Brooklyn, New York with my husband. What is your definition of a successful life? Balance, contentment, community. Describe your perfect day. 65-70F, partly sunny, picnic in the park, maybe a few vintage shops and then pasta for dinner. How did you get into design? In college, I was set on becoming a doctor, until my junior year when I was miserable and couldn’t figure out why. The summer before senior year, I attended a program at Parsons School of Design and everything just kind of fell into place. Both my parents were actually designers themselves, but I guess I needed to take the roundabout path to arrive at the answers I already knew.. Where do you find inspiration? I’m always exploring new styles and themes so my inspiration can come from anywhere, but I tend to gravitate towards nature, nostalgia, and everyday moments that evoke emotion. What's your dream design project? Anything related to food would be pretty amazing. Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? So many! But lately: María Medem, LMNOP Creative, Gonzalo Rodríguez What was the inspiration behind this design? I created this design at the beginning of 2021 when I was going through a series of creative and mental shifts. With this design, I’m trying to show how the past can color the future if we fail to give ourselves the grace to grow. It’s a piece about the hope that comes with mindful reflection. In what ways does the theme of Reflection play out in your life? Looking within is a big part of how I strive to be a better person to myself and others. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Sage green Food: Grilled artichokes from this old-school Italian deli down the street Song: Drop Me Off In The Sky by Luke Wild
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Q&A with Catie St. Jacques
This month’s art is by Kelowna, BC based illustrator, Catie St. Jacques. Catie describes herself as "a mellow person with a reverence for life." About this month's theme, she says, "Gratitude changes everything. Feeling and expressing gratitude expands my awareness and shifts my perspective. I imagine it radiating from my heart, guiding me through life and making its way into everything that I come in contact with." For a little more about Catie, here's a short Q&A. Where is home for you? Kelowna, BC, Canada. What is your definition of a successful life? To wake up everyday enjoying what I do, with a healthy body and mind, spending time with the people I love. Describe your perfect day. Exploring the great outdoors, feeling the sunshine and a cool breeze, moving my body, eating nutritious and delicious food, having a laugh, experiencing a peaceful mind. Feeling the rapture of being alive. How did you get into design? It was through a marketing job I had at an art centre. My boss wanted to create a magazine for the centre, but we didn’t have anyone to create it (and no budget), I’d always been a creative person, but wasn’t too familiar with the design programs. My partner Dustin is a graphic designer and taught me what I needed to know to get the job done, and I realized I liked it way more than marketing, so I continued learning and exploring. I quit my job in 2020 to pursue freelance graphic design. Where do you find inspiration? Inspiration is all around. I believe there is a creative force within all things; it’s all art. Spending time in nature usually allows me to tune into my creativity, and listening to music really opens me up. What's your dream design project? So far, it’s all been a dream. I just feel so grateful that I make a living this way. Honestly, it trips me out that this is my job. Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? My influences change regularly. I will randomly come across someone or a style of design. I get obsessed with it for a while and then I’m onto something different. I have a hard time choosing favourites. There’s way too much beauty out there to narrow it down. What was the inspiration behind this design? In most of my designs, my intention is to share energy. The inspiration for most of my work comes from the spiritual realm. I was listening to a lot of Ram Dass when I made this one. In what ways does the theme of Gratitude play out in your life? Generally, I’m an anxious person prone to stress. Shifting my energy from a fearful state of mind to a loving one is very important for my mental health. One of the best ways to shift my energy is through gratitude. Whether it’s counting my blessings, going to the gym, hiking, paddle boarding, listening to music, having a deep and meaningful conversation, gratitude manages to make its way into my life in some way. I usually have to relax, find my centre and everything falls back into place. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Peach Food: Vegan Tacos Song: Golden Clouds - The Orb Featuring Lee Scratch Perry Quote: “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” - Joseph Campbell
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Q&A with Victoria Ng
This month’s art is by Berlin, Germany based illustrator, Victoria Ng. She loves tackling challenges that can have a positive impact on people’s lives. With her bold and playful designs, Victoria aims to invite people into her personal world and make space for others to reflect and be seen. She says her Integrity art "is about realizing that when we free ourselves from being defined, we open ourselves up to a field of endless potentials. A sentence 'I am' with no endings. A story only left to one's imagination." For a little more about Victoria, here's a short Q&A. Where is home for you? Home is my mind. Home is coming back to my mind after a day worth of noise. Sitting in silence surrounded by nature - I feel most at peace. And strangely, it's my little safe haven. What is your definition of a successful life? My definition of success is to have fun. To be able to find joy and opportunities to play even on the rainiest days. I truly feel like we have this choice in life. We can’t choose what happens to us, but we can choose how we respond to it and the meaning we give it. I really believe in that and because of that I actually feel like I'm already living a successful life…I don't think there is anything or anywhere I would rather be than this moment I am in right now. Describe your perfect day. Hmm... A perfect day is to never have two days the same? Haha! It’s hard for me to describe because I love to do so many things. This is why I get bored really easily. Some things I do almost everyday are waking up around 5:30am and spending my entire morning reading, writing, reflecting, meditating and just listening to calm music. This is quite important for me because I'm naturally an anxious person with high energy and so a calm morning helps me ease into my day. I love being in nature near the water, on the mountains or up in the clouds. I find being surrounded by nature helps me organize my thoughts and clear my mind. It reminds me that what we need already exists and all the fears and doubts we carry don't actually matter. How did you get into design? Ahh this is a tricky question! I feel like design/art found me and I’m forever grateful for it. Without my ability to imagine and create, I don’t know if I would manage to push through all the challenges life has thrown at me. Growing up, it has always been my form of escape, but also my way of showing appreciation to my loved ones such as making celebratory cards. When I was younger I wanted to become a psychologist but because reading and writing wasn’t my strong-suit, I thought advertisement could be a way in: a sweet combination of understanding human behavior and design. However, I quickly realized I didn’t enjoy designing to sell and manipulate but instead wanted to design to improve people’s lives. This was really important to me as a designer. And so, product design fit like a glove. Where do you find inspiration? Like most other creatives, I get my inspiration from traveling, being in nature and learning new topics. But one thing I love doing is daydreaming. Walking aimlessly in new cities, no destination and purposely getting lost. I find when I disengage from the present world it allows my mind to wander, imagining and exploring the possibilities. So, a lot of my ideas come from the shower, long train rides and very often the most inconvenient times, haha! What's your dream design project? Oh wow! There are so many design projects I want to be part of… I would love to start my own wellness stationery business. I want to build a community around mental health and help as many young adolescents as I possibly can. I would love to paint a mural showcasing the importance of mental wellness and I want to use my creativity and skills to work with brands that are constantly striving to make the world a better place. More so recently, I have been considering going back to university to study and become an art therapist. For me, my dream is to help as many people as I possibly can, even if it means just showing up for them and holding space for them to feel seen. Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? Thinkers: Brene Brown, Bell Hooks, Eckhart Tolle, Maya Angelou, Simone Beauvoir Artists/Designers: Barbara Kruger, Jenny Holzer, Shantell Martin, Jessica Walsh, Mr. Doodle, Wes Anderson, Adam J. KurtzFrom a very young age, my role model has always been Mother Teresa. What was the inspiration behind this design? As early as I can remember, my sense of identity was lost. I didn't know who I was and felt like a walking failure. I wasn’t good enough and craved to be more or to be someone else. It wasn’t until I read the book ‘A New Earth’ by Eckhart Tolle that I came across the two words ‘I Am’. The significance behind these two basic words brings more wisdom than any education one is fortunate to have. I was so surprised and the book inspired the words in this design. In what ways does the theme of integrity play out in your life? Listening to my heart. Deeply listening to my heart and asking myself: Does this align with my principle? Am I living up to my own standards and values? Is it a hell yes? If it's not, then it's a no. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: African Violet, Olive Green, Watermelon Pink, Golden Yellow Food: Acai Bowl Song: The Power Is Here Now - Alexia Chellun
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Q&A with Luis Patiño Cantellano
This month’s art is by Idaho based illustrator, Luis Patiño Cantellano. He is fond of plants and designing colorful, playful characters. Luis is at his best when he's among the mountains and surrounded by cedar love. He says, "Whenever I see a lonely plant sprouting in a damaged environment, I see it as a sign of hope and recovery. I like to think of it like the idiom, ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way.'" For a little more about Luis, here's a short Q&A. Where is home for you? I currently live in Nampa, Idaho What is your definition of a successful life? My definition of a successful life is doing something I enjoy doing every day without it ever feeling like work. Describe your perfect day. A perfect day for me is a good hike in the mountains on a sunny day and surrounded by nature's beauty. How did you get into design? My design journey started when I was just a kid in elementary school. I liked to draw plants on my homework, desk, and other variou surfaces. A few years ago, I realized I always had a strong connection with plants, hence my username “Niño Plant” Plant Boy. . Where do you find inspiration? Lately, my inspiration has been random objects I see inside or outside the house and confining them in tight spaces, but plants are always a source of my inspiration. What's your dream design project? My dream project is to one day paint a big mural in a city that shows my love for plants. Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? A designer that inspired me a lot and still does is Sha'an d’Anthes, known as Furrylittlepeach. Her use of color motivated me to explore and experiment with color like never before. Before, it was always grayscale with graphite for me, but when I found her page, it opened a door for me, and I quickly grew out of my comfort zone and turned a new leaf with my work. What was the inspiration behind this design? My inspiration behind this design is about how strong a plant can be even through the toughest environments. Being able to recover and adapt to new challenges shows how resilient someone or something can be. In what ways does the theme of resilience play out in your life? Resilience has played out in my life in so many ways. Being resilient has taught me to never give up on my dreams even when the going gets tough. Especially when it comes to selling my work can be difficult at times, but it hasn’t stopped me from creating and learning from my mistakes. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Green Food: pizza Song: Music Sounds Better with You by Neil Frances Quote: “From my rotting body, flowers shall grow and I am in them, and that is eternity.” ― Edvard Munch
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Q&A with Viscaya Wagner
This month we partner with Vermont-based illustrator, Viscaya Wagner. Viscaya is a multidisciplinary designer, artist, and illustrator. She says, "This piece represents a connection with something greater than oneself and the importance of taking care of each other. For me, that is what builds passion for this life." For a little more about Viscaya, here's a short Q&A! Where is home for you? Home has always been Vermont, where I was born and raised. I’ve lived in a few places over the years and have finally returned to my roots. What is your definition of a successful life? I imagine that’s constantly changing and evolving for me, but the first things to come to mind are: showing my love, practicing gratitude, caring for my loved ones, pursuing my goals in spite of fear, living my beliefs. Describe your perfect day. Waking up slowly, making coffee and a big breakfast, having nothing to accomplish - then strawberry picking, jumping in the river, eating ice cream, and margaritas on the porch with yummy snacks! Maybe throw in some sweet friends too! How did you get into design? When I was a kid I used to spend summers in my dad’s office and I remember someone describing to me what a logo was. I loved this idea of an image somehow encapsulating a person or idea, so I started making “logos” for all his employees - interviewing them about their lives and generating something to represent how I saw them… they were terrible, but the exercise was so captivating. I think I knew from then on that I wanted to do something in that arena, and my family is made up of artists, designers, and makers so I was very well supported. I went to college and studied Studio Art and focussed all my internships on graphic design experience. The rest is history! I love that my career can include such a diverse range of approaches for solving problems and creating experiences. Where do you find inspiration? I would say my greatest source of joy and inspiration is from the natural world. I’ve always felt my best when I’m close to unobstructed nature. But I also think traveling and experiencing new cultures can do the same thing for me - anything to change my environment and be present in that time and space. What's your dream design project? There are so many to be excited about, but lately I love the idea of working on a wine label! Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? My parents, my partner - Tanner Bowden, my friends - Eliza Carver, Sidney Howard, Chase Pellerin, Bailey Sullivan, Vincent Conti, Anthony Eslick, Michael Boswell, David Silverstein, Kyle Stecker, Tereza Wozniak, Simi Mahtani… and so many others. So many people who I’ve found online - Bailey Elder, Cody Hudson, John Zabawa, Javier Reyes, Stephen Rockwood, Niall Greaves… the list is endless. And then there are the OG’s - Isamu Noguchi, Georgia O'Keeffe, Matisse, Calder, Anni Albers, Ruth Asawa, Donald Judd, Cezanne, Hilma af Klint, Helen Frankenthaler, Ellsworth Kelly… and beyond! What was the inspiration behind this design? This piece represents a connection with something greater than oneself and the importance of taking care of each other. For me, that is what builds passion for this life. In what ways does the theme of Passion play out in your life? I think my world runs on my passion to create, to put forth, to challenge myself, to build a life I feel inspired by… it was an example set for me by my parents, and I continue to feel lit up and ready to learn, play, and explore. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Plum Food: Burrata and grapefruit salad with chili crisp Song: Paprika by Japanese Breakfast Quote: “You can find out how to do something and then do it, or do something and then find out what you did.” -Isamu Noguchi
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Q&A with Flávia Mayer
This month’s art is by Latin illustrator, Flávia Mayer. Flávia illustrates feelings and thoughts through bold imagery — from serene women to wild tigers, her artwork approaches complex themes such as mental health, our connection to nature, to the universe, and our deepest selves. She says, "Creativity and metamorphosis are deeply connected. In the same way a butterfly must go through caterpillar and cocoon stages in order to become this exquisite, unique creature, our ideas, too, need to go through several shapes before they reach their final destination." For a little more about Flávia, here's a short Q&A. Where is home for you? This year I’ve decided to embrace the so-called ‘digital nomad’ life for a bit. I’m currently living in Spain, with plans to go to France, UK and then Brazil to visit my family! What is your definition of a successful life? For me, success is not about having the perfect job or lots of money. These things are important, sure, but more important is to have time to do what truly makes you happy. So a successful life would be a life where I can have a balance between spending time with friends and family, working with what I love and taking care of myself. Not that easy, I know! Describe your perfect day. I love slow mornings so my perfect day would start with a lie-in, breakfast in bed with lots of coffee and maybe an avocado toast. It would definitely be a sunny day so I would go for a stroll around the beach or by a river, maybe visit a local market, have a picnic with friends and family. To end the day, definitely a good film under the blankets! How did you get into design? I have loved drawing since I was little. I used to sell my drawings in school! Then one day a friend of mine suggested that I should study Graphic Design to combine my drawing skills with something more practical (because I’m quite a practical person and Art seemed a bit too abstract for me). And that was it! I think if she hadn’t suggested it I would have ended up studying astrophysics or something like that. Where do you find inspiration? Ooh, everywhere I guess! Nature is a big inspiration for me, as well as going to museums or simply walking on the street. I also love spending time on Pinterest and Dribbble when I want to look for more specific inspiration, there is so much good stuff out there! What's your dream design project? I have so many projects I’d like to do! Right now I’m talking to a friend who’s a composer about doing short animations with her music. I’m new to animation so it’s a big challenge but I hope it works out! Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? There are so many! Lauren Hom has always been a great inspiration for me to follow my own voice. Studio Muti illustrations are something out of this world and I always looked up to them. Elizabeth Gilbert and Julia Cameron are both great thinkers and can help a lot when you get a creative block, or even just to keep your mental health in check. What was the inspiration behind this design? Butterflies are such beautiful creatures. Each one with their own uniqueness, they inspire us to be creative in our most authentic way, to grow in each cycle we go through in our lives, to cocoon our ideas for a while only to let them fly into the world one day. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Light blue Food: Avocado Toast Song: Atravesao by Elsa y El Mar Quote: "Maybe with good luck we’ll find what eluded us in the places we once called home” The French Dispatch (2021)
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Q&A with Kate O’Hara
This month we partner with Nevada-based illustrator Kate O’Hara. Kate creates intricate botanical illustrations, inspired by the flora and fauna that surrounds us. On this month's theme, Kate says, "To me, adventure means always striving for new experiences and growth. Choosing to contend with the urge to do what’s comfortable and in order to evolve." For a little more about Kate, here's a short Q&A! Where is home for you? The biggest little city, Reno, Nevada What is your definition of a successful life? To be comfortable and healthy, connected and loved, and to have a creative passion that I’m engaging with, whether it’s art or that evolves into something else. Describe your perfect day. A day where I get into the flow on a project I’m enjoying working on, then take my dog for a long walk in sunny weather and go on a bike ride to a brewery with my boyfriend and friends. How did you get into design? I was a very shy and artistic kid, drawing was the way I could get noticed, accepted and connect with people. I ended up going to art school for college and discovered that illustration was a possible career path. I started freelancing when I graduated from school and have been doing that ever since. Where do you find inspiration? I find most of my inspiration in nature, whenever I’m outside I’m always on the hunt for interesting leaves, patterns, and small botanical details that I can add to my art. What's your dream design project? I love packaging design, my dream project would be to illustrate a whole line of some sort of botanical product like tea, or spices. I’d also love to have the time to design an entire tarot card deck. Which designers or thinkers influence/inspire you? There’s so many amazing artists that I follow on social media that keep me inspired everyday. I also always go back to the work of greats like John James Audubon, William Morris, Beatrix Potter, Hokusai and Maria Sibylla Merian. What was the inspiration behind this design? The quote Onwards Ever Upwards was the inspiration for this design–to make an uplifting design representing always moving forwards intentionally. In what ways does the theme of Adventure play out in your life? I love to travel, especially to new places where there’s a sense of the unexpected. I’m currently getting into backpacking and working my way up to a multi week backpacking trip with my sister and my dog Ned. At the moment, what is your favorite… Color: Yellow Ochre Food: Mangos Song: Can I Believe You, Fleet Foxes Quote: “If I could say it in words, there would be no reason to paint it.” –Georgia O’Keeffe
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