first four months

0221 | How has it been going?

What a crazy ride these last few months have been! I went from teaching part-time to working two jobs that I love. I opened my own business without any reservations or fears. I guess you could say that it was meant to be then. At the same time I started working part-time at our local art museum in town. Talk about a great asset! I get to work with some great people and get to be apart of my community that I love. My summer classes went great, even with the small numbers that I had. We were able to celebrate with an Art Showcase where students showed off all their accomplishments. We were also able to finally celebrate our grand opening with the Chamber of Commerce with our ribbon cutting. At lastly after-school classes have started with great response.

I am really looking forward to how this will grow with the community. Promoting everything that I offer has been slow at first. Our paint and ceramic events seem to have plenty of interest but response has not been equivalent. I have not feel that everything will pick-up as word gets out. Hearing back from the locals I know will strengthen everything we have. Feedback and response has already helped expand what we do offer. We added an additional after-school class this semester for a younger audience. I have also learned that there is a strong homeschool community supporting that what I offer is needed. What I find that is interesting is that art is not offered to 6th graders, I only know this because my Junior High class is made up of 6th graders.

Art is extremely important not only for promoting culture and breaking boundaries but for self expression. Where else can you create without fear of failing or judgement? This is why I have come up with my mission statement, Zabeljanes Gallery is a community art center focused on raising awareness for the importance of art through education and events. I want to provide as many opportunities as I can to as many people as I can. I have some great plans for the future and all I can do is pray that I can be patient for them to play out in God's time.



Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.