This week’s post is dedicated to my beautiful long lost friend, Nonee, as this week I was reminded of a conversation we had long ago about a little fish. Our reasons for connecting to Betta Fish may not be exactly the same, but I will always think of them, and her, and art very fondly. 

I have very vivid memories of watching Betta fish swimming lonely in their tanks. Effortlessly beautiful, defiant, and strong. I remember feeling sad as a kid knowing they were always alone. As I got older and struggled with anxiety, I continued to connect to that imagery, only instead of sadness I felt calm. Sometimes anxiety can be isolating and you feel like those fish–separate in their tiny fishbowls at the store. Compartmentalized on shelves next to other lonely bowls. You start to feel that tinge of aggression–or in my case, defensiveness–at the mere sight of the dwellers outside of your little world. For me, the best thing that has come out of my love for Betta fish is the ability to remember their weightlessness, their grace, ease, and calm quietness. No matter what kind of conflict or upset these fighters have, they always have the option of being that peaceful. I try to remember that when I have to do something new or step out of my comfort zone. There has been a lot of that this week. A lot of self doubt and being the new kid, but I will return to peace and all will be well soon enough. 

Having never owned a Betta before, I certainly do have a lot of them in my sketchbooks! I’ve included one of my favorites plus another bonus sketch of a work in progress from last year. 

Music friends: the title of this post refers to a song by Kina Grannis off of her album called “Elements” which is amazing. You can find it on iTunes and you should definitely purchase it if you like things that are awesome. 

As always, thank you so much for following! I’ve noticed a couple of new followers…welcome! Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter for more updates between posts, ramblings, and general goings-on. See you all here next Sunday

Xoxo