I just read this great tweet: “So my 3 year old appears to have misheard the phrase ‘happy holiday’ this morning and has been going round wishing everybody ‘happy heart today’.”
Isn’t that just perfect? Beyond the presents and parties, this kid has perfectly distilled the essence of the holiday spirit—to wish for everyone a happy heart.
At the Arcata holiday fair recently, I got to connect with a number of my fans. It’s a lot of work, but I do these occasional in-person events in part because they provide a great opportunity for me to understand my customers and to market test designs. The gradual emptying of my shelves and the swelling of my money belt is the most elemental form of market research!
More importantly, by hearing stories from customers and getting feedback on what they love about my art, I find renewed inspiration for doing the work that I do. Since I am not in this business for the big bucks, the deeply felt compliments mean the world to me!
So this holiday season, I just want to say thank you to all my customers and friends near and far for your support of my art. You make my heart happy. In these turbulent times, I feel especially blessed to have meaningful work creating art that inspires, delights and connects. Here’s wishing you all happy holidays and a happy heart today.
may peace
in our hearts
spread peace
in the world
•
Artist Annette Makino in her Arcata studio.
Makino Studios News
Raffle winner: Congratulations to Katie U., who won $40 in store credit at the Makino Studios raffle at the Holiday Craft Market in Arcata, CA.
Made in Humboldt event: You can find my calendars, prints and boxed notecards at the “Made in Humboldt” event at Pierson Garden Shop in Eureka, CA through Dec. 24.
2019 calendar: This 2019 mini-calendar of art and haiku makes a great holiday gift—and a thoughtful present for yourself! Contact me about discounts on two or more.
For Humboldters: You can find a wide selection of my prints at Blake’s Books in McKinleyville. You can also visit my studio between Arcata and Blue Lake by appointment.