End of the Trail

For 11 years I’ve enjoyed holding open studio weekends in October as part of the Greater Ithaca Art Trail. I’ve met so many wonderful folks, whose beautiful energy lingers in this space and inspires me still. I’m very grateful to all of you who’ve shared your presence with me in this way.

Sadly, I held my last open studio this year. Attendance for the Art Trail open studios as a whole has diminished greatly in the past couple of years, and is no longer in balance with the time, energy, and resources required of me to participate in the event. I will, however, continue to offer visits to the studio by appointment for viewing my artwork or learning more about the offerings of Healing Path Studio. If you’re interested, contact me at HealingPathStudio@gmail.com to schedule. I’d love to meet you!

As I opened the studio to visitors this October, I didn’t realize at the time that this would be my last participation in the Art Trail. But, over the course of those 4 days I began to consider the viability of the event for me. It was approaching the last few open hours when the bell over my door announced an entering guest, and I looked up to greet the person who would inspire my decision.

She was a petite lady with a cloud of flaxen hair, bright blue eyes, an engaging smile, and a seemingly angelic demeanor. She was dressed in a turquoise beret and beautiful shawl of primary colors that echoed the hues of my studio. She spoke softly, yet enthusiastically as she explored every inch of the studio, asking questions and commenting on my offerings. Her gentle presence felt both soothing and inspiring as we chatted together.

We’d been discussing my Forget Me Not Flower Essence toward the end of her visit, when she began to softly sing a few lines from a song about that flower. Her voice too seemed angelic with its clear, sweet tone as she sang about the flower whose energy encourages remembrance of cherished moments. I stood spellbound, very sure that in this moment I was being given a precious message. As she left, she turned to me with twinkling eyes and said, “thank you for being open today, I enjoyed my visit very much.” I’ll never forget my last Art Trail visitor.

I’m still in awe of that magical experience that felt like a goodbye hug for my time on the Art Trail. I share it with you as encouragement to trust that the universe will always offer a signpost to point you in the right direction. Enjoy the journey!

Blessings,

Torie