As I sat at the table surrounded by colorful origami paper, my three-year-old son eagerly watched me fold intricate designs from an Origami World set I found at Blick Art Shop shortly after our move from Munich to Washington State. Each fold became a lesson in patience and creativity, as I struggled to create vehicles while he cheered me on. His joy reminded me of the beauty in small victories and how art can connect us across generations, transforming moments of frustration into opportunities for growth and bonding.

Life has a funny way of offering support when we least expect it. Whether through art, parenting, or sharing our struggles, opening up can lead to surprising, practical help. A personal experience before my move taught me that vulnerability—something as simple as sharing a heavy moment with a friend—can offer comfort and unlock new ways of thinking. Sometimes, it's not grand advice but small gestures, like a pack of spicy candy, that provide just the right tool to cope. This story reflects how being open can shape our art, parenting, and emotional well-being.

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the simple, yet significant, moments that shape our experiences. After my family’s move from Munich to Washington, I began reflecting on how this transition heightened my awareness of the beauty in everyday life. Embracing the 'last time' mentality—the idea that any moment could be the last—helps my art and deepens my connection with my surroundings. It's a powerful practice of noticing, appreciating, and drawing inspiration from life’s small yet big moments.

As I prepared to move from Munich to Washington, I decided to leave 65 of my paintings on the streets with a “Gratis Kunst” (free art) sign. To my surprise, 20 pieces were taken on the first day alone, including abstract, colorful works, while more personal portraits—like those of my son—were left behind. This experiment taught me that public taste can be unpredictable, yet it reaffirmed the value of creating art for the joy it brings. While some pieces were snatched up quickly, what truly matters is painting what fulfills me, regardless of how others respond.

As a huge Klimt fan, I soaked up everything I learned from visiting museums in Vienna. Upon returning to Munich, I spent more time consuming art than painting, which felt refreshing. On my train ride home, I had the pleasure of chatting with a lovely family, and their enthusiastic daughter sparked a lightbulb moment for me. After sharing my desire to paint Taylor Swift, I ended up sending her a painting! The middle brother also requested a panda painting, which I happily created. Receiving a heartfelt letter from the family truly warmed my heart and reminded me of the power of art to create unexpected connections and bring happiness to others.