Stations Journal Journey #24

October 1, 2025

In my last journal I spoke of the both / and of the recent journey. This is about the other half -  the blessing also experienced last week.

On Sept 23rd we held an Open Studio, inviting people who have been watching this project unfold to come view Stations #1-10, completed from January to present. There were 18 people who came out. It was quite something even for us to see all 10 pieces of newly created art filling the rooms. 

We showed attendees the process for how the pieces are made, and invited them to cut one labeled, numbered fabric piece for Station number 11, newly into production. To have a bit of fun, we also invited people to guess how many total pieces of fabric there would be for Station #11. This is something that my studio assistant and I have done with each banner, and it has added a light-hearted element to a hefty year of production. As of today, the count is 192, and we are not finished yet. The closest guess will merit the winner the door-prize of a canvas print of the Reeds fabric art. The curator of the Il Museo Gallery at the Italian Cultural Center, premiere venue for the series, has asked us to suggest which piece will make the best ‘anchor’ image for posters, etc., for the whole exhibition. So we asked attendees to not only nominate one, but also tell us their favourite piece. This was an engaging way to see a wide range of preferences, and find that everyone found a different connection in what they viewed.

We also had a few cards and things to purchase by donation, as well as a raffle and silent auction of both a canvas print and the last remaining original piece from my 2014 series, called Narcissus. I was deeply thankful for many people’s donations and willingness to buy raffle tickets as well as one person’s kind contribution of $2,000 in exchange for the original. Although it was not a fundraiser per se, we are so grateful to have raised over $2600 towards this project. These funds will help me to pay those crucially assisting me over the next month. Ever since I was a young entrepreneur, I have found trust in God’s timing. 

While the unsuccessful grant notification recently took the wind from our sails, this event helped us find the breeze again! The Holy Spirit will fill us with the needed energy and persistence to see this project through. All we need is the blessing of each day in turn, one at a time; each day’s health and sustenance for what comes next. And just like the Open Studio event, we will achieve this in community and as a team. This is what I trust for today.