The Ugly Stage: Every Painting Has One

If you've been following along on Instagram, you caught a glimpse of something I don't always share — a painting mid-struggle. Watch the reel here.

This one has been humbling.

A majority of this painting was started in poor lighting — and it showed. The shadows came out too heavy, the colors weren't harmonious, and the window that's supposed to flood the whole composition with warm morning light ended up dark and muddy. When you can't see your colors clearly while you're mixing them, everything fights instead of sings.

But here's the thing about oil painting — it's forgiving if you are.

I kept going. And slowly, this piece is starting to breathe again.

The strawberry danish, the clear glass teapot, the delicate lace and warm details I have planned — it's all still becoming. This is the ugly stage, and every painting has one. It's not a sign something went wrong. It's just the painting finding its way.

This piece is part of the Linen & Sugar collection — a body of work built around soft textures, warm light, and the quiet beauty of everyday moments. It's meant to feel light, airy, and inviting.

We're not finished yet. But the light is coming back in.

Stay tuned.