2019 – a few highlights

The underlying theme for the whole of 2019 for me was to move back home to New Zealand. We had come back from our Christmas holiday to Zimbabwe in January 2019 with the firm belief that it was now time to move. This was no easy task with a young family and a lot of connections in the UK. Doors however were opening and we decided to take the plunge. I am happy to say that dream has become a reality and I am writing this from Sunny New Plymouth.

It was however a difficult year emotionally. Waiting on Visas and selling up are never quick and you have a lot of time to mull over things. Mentally it took its tole and I can safely say moving my family half way round the world is easily the most stressful thing I’ve had to do. I’ve moved many times before but this is the first being married, with a toddler in tow. You always wonder if you are making the right decision or not.

God has been so good. Getting here was not certain at one point but we made it before the year was out. We have found a good Christian school for our boy. We have had a place to stay and a car to drive and have joined a good local church. Like everything, good things take time.

2019 – A Productive Year

Looking back at my paintings from 2019, I am surprised at how many I managed to do. I diversified quite a bit with Slate, Seascapes and ACEO cards, all of which I really enjoyed doing. Compared to previous years it has been a good one. Things have slowed down after the move and I do feel a bit like I’m starting over but I pray 2020 is just as productive, if not better. I am currently prepping a larger work ready to start in the coming weeks. Once the process starts I’m sure it will all come round.

2020 – LOOKING FORWARD

Hopefully will be back to painting again more substantially once our things arrive from the UK. Not long now! Here are a few ideas for the year ahead.

  • Do some large African Wildlife artworks. Think another Rhino and elephant are on the cards.
  • Want to do a larger work of Mt Taranaki. Now I’m home I feel I can do it. Inspiration is everywhere.
  • Looking to do some more ACEO & miniature paintings as they are a favourite. I have another Queen member to do.
  • Looking at taking up some digital design this year also. Watch this space.

2020 – A BLESSED YEAR

It is great to be home. I have been running quite a bit recently as the nature walks here are amazing. It’s hard to believe you are in the middle of a city with how much New Zealand bush there is around here. While its early days and there is a lot of settling to do I believe we are meant to be here for such a time as this. It wont be perfect or easy but living “God’s Plan” for your life is the best and only place to be.

As we head into 2020 I pray you have a blessed and prosperous year and you hear what God is calling you to do. 2020 will be a blessed year!

7 thoughts on “New Country, New Year, New Start

  1. Dyane Chadwick says:

    Just read this and Adrian you arean inspiration and you and your family can do anything you set your mind to.
    All Gods Blessing
    Dyane

  2. Lauren Rei says:

    What a great testimony Adrian. Your art is beautiful and such a God given gift. I love seeing your art online and hope to have a piece one day. Keep going and see where He takes you!

  3. Joy Bell says:

    I have just discovered this Adrian and love your honesty and frankness. You are indeed a very talented artist and the fact that is what you constantly think about when you are in the office environment proves that is what you should be doing. I wonder how this crazy year has panned out for you and yours, trust there have been some very satisfying artistic moments. Keep your dream in the forefront, God has given you your talent of creativity and He loves to see us succeed. Richest of blessings Adrian in all you do.

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