In Memory of My Mom: Stories of Art and Healing

Today, I want to share a deeply personal edition of my newsletter. It’s dedicated to my mom, who recently passed away. Through art, I’ve found a way to keep her memory close while navigating this new chapter of my life.

In this email, you’ll find:

• Art In Progress: The story behind a watercolor and ink painting I created for my mom - a tribute to our bond and shared love for life’s simple pleasures.
• Creative Perspectives: A spotlight on Fernando Botero, my mom’s favorite artist, whose work celebrates bodies of all sizes with dignity and grace.
• Mindful Moments: A simple yet powerful mindfulness practice that has been helping me stay grounded and tune in to my inner self.

My hope is that these stories not only inspire you but also remind you of the profound beauty found in connection, creativity, and stillness.

Art In Progress

Years ago, when I first started exploring watercolor and ink, I painted a simple Italian coffee maker - one of those familiar Bialetti designs you’d find in many kitchens. My mom loved that early painting so much that she asked me to create one just for her.

Recently, I finally painted her version from scratch. It was more than just a piece of art, it was a way to honor her love for small rituals and the connection we shared.

When I gave it to her, she was deeply touched. She hung it right in her kitchen, next to a photo of the two of us. That little corner became a reflection of her warmth and of the moments we cherished together, a celebration of love brewed one coffee at a time.

Creative Perspectives

My mom adored Fernando Botero, and her favorite painting was Couple Dancing. She loved how his art celebrated life with boldness and vibrancy, but more importantly, she admired how his work depicted larger bodies not as caricatures, but as powerful, joyful, and fully human.

In a world that often diminishes bodies that don’t fit narrow ideals, Botero’s work is a radical celebration of beauty and presence. To my mom, his art was a reminder that everyone deserves to be seen and appreciated for who they are.

When I visited the Museo Botero in Bogotá recently, I sent her photos of the exhibit. Even from afar, she was mesmerized, revisiting her love for his work. Walking through the museum, I understood why my mom liked his art. Botero is now a reminder about the power art has to connect us, even across great distances or loss.

Mindful Moments

Lately, I’ve been leaning on all the different tools I’ve learned along the way to help me process emotions and ground myself during difficult times. One simple yet transformative practice that’s been helping me is humming.

Humming may seem small, but it has a profound impact. It soothes the nervous system, quiets external noise, and creates a deeper connection with my inner self. In these moments of stress and grief, it’s a way to find calm and realign with what truly matters.

If life feels overwhelming, I encourage you to try it. Hum a tune, a favorite song, or even just a single note. It’s amazing how something so simple can create space for stillness and healing.

If you’re also navigating loss or grief, I highly recommend the work of Barri Leiner Grant, a compassionate and insightful grief specialist. Her guidance has helped so many people find ways to honor their loved ones while gently moving forward. 

Thank You for Being Here

This week’s newsletter is deeply personal, and I’m so grateful to have this space to share my journey with you. If these stories resonate with you, or if they inspire you to reflect on your own connections, creativity, or moments of mindfulness, I’d love to hear from you.