This week I welcomed a new group of students to my Social Media Management and Transmedia Storytelling classes at The American University of Rome.

As I introduced myself, I realized how long I’ve been reinventing my courses to keep up with the latest tools and technologies. I’ve been teaching university students since 2000 and full-time since 2002. My educator journey has taken me from New York and New Jersey to Rome, then to Myanmar and Malawi, and now, since 2024, back to Rome again.

Each time I return to my courses, the tools may have changed, but the mission stays the same: help students understand how to tell meaningful stories, communicate with impact, and adapt to new technologies in a rapidly changing world.

Teaching in 2026: It’s Not Just About Tools

In 2006, I was invited to help build and create the digital media track for the university’s communication program. Since then, I’ve seen platforms come and go as well as technologies emerge and evolve. Now, in 2026, I’m not so interested in keeping up with specific tools and platforms but rather sharing with my students how to be self sufficient and self-directed learners who can use these emerging tools in a way that keeps creativity, curiosity, and human authenticity alive and well.

Many of my students are around 19 or 20. As I look around, I can almost see my younger self in the crowd , wide-eyed, hopeful, a bit anxious, and full of questions. What kind of world are they stepping into? What jobs will even exist five years from now? What will it take to thrive in a world that’s constantly being reshaped by automation and AI?

And it’s not just students wondering. My own teenage sons (14 and 16) are asking similar questions as they begin to explore college and career paths.

AI in the Classroom: Tool, Not Shortcut

There’s a lot of talk about AI right now. I enjoy learning about and exploring the tools. I follow the news. But I remind my students, and myself, that these are just tools. They’re not a replacement for voice, depth, or human authenticity.

This semester we’re exploring some AI tools together. We’ll experiment with tools like ChatGPT, Runway, and others, but we’ll do it critically and with curiosity. I want students to understand what can’t be automated: originality, emotional truth, and slow, authentic (and even imperfect!) human craft.

The Return to Slow

There’s a noticeable shift happening in storytelling and media. People are turning away from sterile, overly polished “AI slop.” This is the kind of content farmed out to the bots and made without any real human thought, voice, or heart. More and more, audiences are craving work that feels genuine and imperfectly authentic.

AI can speed up content creation, but it also leaves many of us craving what’s real and raw. Like a lovingly prepared slow-cooked meal, slow art and storytelling have their own resonance and weight. I like to think that in a world of mass-produced cookies in a factory, people are always going to prefer Grandma’s homemade cookies slowly made with love.

This semester, we’re bringing slow writing and slow art back. We’ll use the fast tools to make space for the deeper work. Students will use ChatGPT to draft, help research, and outline, and tools like Runway to animate hand drawn images and illustrations, but the heart of the story and the real message will still come from them.

Why I Teach This Way: A Personal Journey

This mindset comes from experience. In 2016, I left a full-time, tenured position and moved with my family to Myanmar and later to Malawi. I had to rebuild my career from scratch and reinvent the wheel as I offered my skills in new ways outside the university classrooms in the industrialized world that I’d grown so used to. I designed for UN agencies, led workshops, and worked with students all over the world. It was a crash course in resilience and self-sufficiency. I found myself teaching, learning, creating, and adapting all at once.

So when I ask my students to lead with curiosity, to be flexible, and to build portable, adaptable skills, it’s because I see what is on the horizon for them and can relate to what they are about to go through.

What If the World Shifts?

These are the questions I keep asking. What if the job you’re preparing for doesn’t exist in a few years? What if your whole industry changes overnight? How will you respond?

Even universities are starting to face important questions. Many students are taking on large debts, and it’s becoming clear that degrees alone may not guarantee job readiness in the next five years. As someone who has spent years teaching in higher education, I still believe in its value. At the same time, I know we need to do more to help students build flexible, creative, and values-driven skills that can adapt to whatever the future brings.

A New Kind of Learning

What I truly hope students take away from my classes isn’t how to master a platform. It’s how to be brave, how to adapt, and how to remain human even when the systems around them are built by machines.

On January 31, I’m teaching a 1-hour online masterclass called From Slow Art to New Tech. It’s especially for artists, educators, and creative professionals looking to use AI tools wisely. The aim is to support, not replace, their voice. We’ll explore time-saving tools and ways to make your work stand out without being swallowed by tech overwhelm.

In the End, It’s About How You Show Up

Whether you’re a student just starting out or a seasoned creative reinventing yourself, this moment we’re in is real. It’s full of unknowns. But the way you show up matters.

We don’t control the pace of change. But we do get to choose how we respond to it. I’m choosing curiosity, exploration, and a touch of career survivalist bad-assery.

Who’s with me?

I’m still glowing from my recent experimental “Art of Reset” show in Rome, Italy on Friday, October 25.

This one-night-only immersive exhibition featured work from my Sacred Geometry and Healing Symbols collection, presented both traditionally and through large-scale projections in Il Matroneo, a Vatican-owned sacred space inside the Carpegna Palace.

To everyone who joined in person (and in spirit): thank you!

Your presence turned this experimental “reset button” of an exhibition into something truly alive — a conversation between art and energy, between stillness and renewal.

Have a mini virtual peek below.

Recharge and Reset

The idea was to make a soothing and mystical experience to help visitors recharge and reset after a hectic workweek and Roman traffic.

I also appreciated being a part of Rome Art Week 2025 as well as The representation for Italy in VAA Open Spaces 2025, the world’s largest global art trail.

Anyway, I won’t talk (or write) your ear off. Rather, a few images can help give you a sense of how it went.

If you missed it, no worries. I’ll let you know when the next show is soon.

You can also find more images and videos from the show here over at my Instagram page, along with some lovely testimonials from those who had a chance to walk through and get the full experience.

Thanks again for following along with me and my art. 
Wishing you all the best, and stay tuned for more shows coming soon.

Cheers,
Kristen

Are you an artist looking for a way to make passive income and share your work year-round? In this tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to sell art calendars with print-on-demand — using platforms like Gelato and Etsy to reach collectors worldwide.

Whether you’re just starting or expanding your creative business, this step-by-step guide will help you turn your art into a beautiful product that sells internationally.

Here are my first two calendars of my 2026 collection. Have a look.

Why Art Calendars?

Art calendars give your collectors and fans a way to engage with your work daily — while helping you generate recurring seasonal income. But international shipping can be a huge obstacle (and cost!) — especially if you’re a small, independent artist like me.

This is where Gelato’s global print network and seamless Etsy integration come in.

What You’ll Learn in the Video

In this step-by-step overview, I show you:

✅ How I set up my print-on-demand calendar using Gelato
✅ Why I chose Gelato over other POD platforms
✅ The exact workflow to create multiple calendar variations (size, region, format)
✅ How I connect Gelato to Etsy for automatic fulfillment
✅ Tips for pricing, setting up templates, and boosting Etsy sales
✅ Little-known design tweaks that save time (and headaches)
✅ Common mistakes I made so you don’t have to

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale, this quick-start video can save you hours of trial and error.

Watch the full tutorial below:
How to Sell Your Art Calendars Worldwide (POD Tutorial)

A Little Support Goes a Long Way

If you enjoyed this free resource and want to support what I do, I’d be so grateful if you’d stop by my Etsy shop, give it a follow, or favorite a listing or two — it’s a free and lovely way to help invigorate the Etsy algorithm.

Got an Etsy shop of your own? Let me know — I’d be happy to return the favor and support you back!

Where to Next?

• Try Gelato for your first calendar product
• Join my Mentorship group with Mastrius. It’s a small, personalized group with no more than seven other artists. Receive customized support, community, and coaching with heart.
• Subscribe on YouTube for more how-to videos for creative changemakers

And don’t forget — even if you’re starting small, consistency plus community plus clarity can go a long way.

Thanks for reading and watching!

What do you give someone when no store-bought gift feels quite right?

I’ve often asked myself that—especially when someone is grieving, navigating a transition, or simply in need of something deeper than another candle or gift card. That’s what led me to the idea of the impossible gift or a meaningful spiritual gift: something you can’t really buy… but might still give anyway.

Over time, I realized this was exactly what I was trying to do with my art.

Goddess is a celebration of the sacred feminine—powerful, radiant, and rooted in global wisdom. This artwork honors the women who hold the world together—mothers, healers, and changemakers. I made it to be a daily reminder of strength, balance, and beauty.

Giving the Gift of Feeling

I try to make images that carry something: a sense of peace, a moment of calm, a reminder of inner strength. Sometimes that’s all someone needs to feel just a little bit better.

And this kind of gift doesn’t have to cost anything.

I often hear from people who’ve saved one of my artworks as their phone wallpaper or shared it with a friend who needed a lift. When someone writes to tell me that an image helped them feel better in some way—it truly makes my day.

If a piece you come across on my social media pages or my website resonates with you, you are absolutely welcome to share it, save it, or send it to someone who needs it. That’s part of giving a meaningful spiritual gift. It means the energy made it where it was meant to go.

And if you ever want to bring that energy into your physical space—or give it as a heartfelt, lasting gift—I also offer art prints, cards, and other items in my shop. Each one is created with the same love and intention.

In this short video below from my studio, I share more about how I approach creating art as a kind of emotional and energetic gift—especially for those moments when words fall short.

Sacred Symbols, Global Roots

Much of my work pulls from ancient and cross-cultural symbolism: sacred geometry, handmade patterns, and global visual languages passed down through generations.

When I sit down to draw, I’m not just making lines and marks—I’m connecting to something older, wider, and deeper than myself.

My Sacred Geometry & Symbols series grew out of that impulse. Each piece combines hand-drawn patterns and symbols from every continent.

“It Made Me Smile for the First Time in Weeks”

Over the last few years, I’ve received messages that have humbled me to my core—notes from people going through illness, heartbreak, depression. Somehow, they stumbled across an image I made, and something shifted. A smile. A breath. A moment of feeling seen. Some even wrote the “H-word,”…. healing.

That’s the kind of “impossible gift” I believe in.

I used to think I was just pretending that colors and symbols could heal. But if pretending leads to someone feeling even a tiny bit better… maybe it’s not pretend at all.

If you are an artist or creative person, I can share more of my tips on bringing that good vibe energy more into your own work here.

Remembering What I Came Here For

For almost two decades, I wore the title “professor” and focused mainly on digital art. But if you had met me at fifteen, I’d have told you I wanted to create art that heals. That builds bridges. That makes people feel less alone.

These days, I’m unlearning the need to always be polished or “professional.” I’m reconnecting with the younger version of me—the one who believed in magic and energy and the healing power of a well-placed spiral.

I’m a little woo, yes. But not just woo. I’ve seen enough to know that art carries energy. That intention matters. And that sometimes a picture really is worth a thousand hugs.

Not Sure Where to Start? Here Are a Few Pieces You Might Like

If you’re curious about finding a piece that supports your energy, your space, or someone you love—here are a few starting points.

Each artwork below is created with specific energies and intentions in mind. You can use them as visual meditations, spiritual anchors, or simply as a reminder of what you’re inviting into your life.

For Peace, Unity & Oneness

Two of my favorite pieces that speak to interconnectedness, calm, and spiritual wholeness:

• Spiral: Woven Together in Unity
• Unity: Earth Dance Meditation (Flower of Life)

For Abundance & Manifestation

A piece to support financial and energetic flow, rooted in Celtic traditions but supported by abundance symbols from every continent across time, place, and culture.

• Celtic Abundance Knot Infinity of Blessings

For Connection to Nature, Earth, and Unconditional Love

Great for grounding, compassion, and honoring the feminine spirit:

• The Way: Gaia Protection Meditation
• Mother: (Vesica Piscis – Divine Feminine Energy)
• Grandmother

For Gratitude & Appreciation

A tribute to nourishment, thankfulness, and harvest—within and around us:

• Abundant Harvest: Food Security Meditation (Seed of Life)

For Releasing Old Energy & Making Space

For moments of personal growth, energy healing, or releasing what no longer serves:

• Torus – Energy Clearing

Thank You for Being Here

Whether you’re just exploring, saving an image to your phone, or choosing a print for your space—I’m honored to be part of your journey.

Maybe you didn’t find this by chance. Maybe it found you. If it stirred something in you, trust that it arrived right on time.

And if you ever want to send someone an “impossible gift”—or give one to yourself—well, maybe now you know where to start. ✨

All best wishes,
Kristen

Have you ever tried to give an “impossible yet meaningful spiritual gift”? Or received one? I’d love to hear your story—or just how this post resonated with you. Feel free to share in the comments below.

You’d think that after over two decades as an artist, educator, and someone who’s lived and worked on four continents, I’d have a handle on international art logistics by now.

And yet…

Recently I was invited to participate in a group exhibition at the Medici Museum of Art in Ohio, USA — a Zodiac-themed show that felt cosmically aligned with my latest series of symbolic, hand-drawn works from my recent Zodiac Series. The plan was simple: I’d ship my 12 original drawings from Italy, where I now live, and they’d be framed and displayed at the museum.

Easy, right?

Cue the paperwork, export laws, and a crash course in Italian cultural protection regulations. Spoiler alert: Italy doesn’t make it easy to ship original artwork abroad — even if it’s brand-new and even if the artist (me!) is the one shipping it.

Four of the drawings from the Zodiac Series. Each was created during its respective sun sign’s season and contains symbols and patterns from every continent to highlight the sign’s signature strengths & quirks

What Went Wrong (and Why It’s Not Really “Wrong”)

Let me back up a bit.

I spent the last eight years living in Myanmar and Malawi, where I rekindled my love of fine art after a long stint focused primarily on digital work. When I shipped art to the USA from Malawi, it was surprisingly simple. I wrapped, labeled, shipped. Done.

But Italy is different. Here, even contemporary works may be treated as cultural artifacts, subject to strict export regulations and red tape. To legally ship original works abroad, you often need special export declarations and approval from government agencies — a process that can take weeks or even months.

And I found all this out after making promises, prepping my artwork, and nearly sealing the shipping tube.

sad, bare-walled studio where the drawings used to hang

When Things Fall Apart… Or Fall Into Place?

At first, I panicked. I felt unprofessional. Embarrassed, even. Like I should have known better. But after a few deep breaths (and some generous advice from Italian artist and curator friends), I realized this wasn’t a personal failure. It was a very normal, very bureaucratic reality that many artists living in Italy — expats or otherwise — come up against.

So instead of giving up entirely, I pivoted.

I wrote to the museum with transparency (and a few extra apologies!), offering a few creative alternatives:

• Digital Projection: High-resolution scans of the Zodiac drawings could be projected or digitally displayed — an idea that feels especially aligned with the cosmic theme of the show.
  
• Ready-to-Hang Reproductions: I also suggested archival-quality prints on canvas, metal, or wood, shipped directly from my trusted fine art printer in California. No framing, no customs red tape.

I sent it a few hours ago, so we’ll see what they say. Just the act of exploring these options has sparked a bigger shift in how I think about sharing my work.

Aquarius Leading the Way drawing from the Zodiac Series

Making My Work as Location-Independent as I Am

Over the past six months — thanks to everything from a postal strike in Canada to proposed cuts in the U.S. Postal Service (not to mention a few holiday-season calendar shipping snafus) — I’ve started re-imagining what it means to be a location-independent artist. The world’s getting trickier to ship through, and honestly, I’d love for my art to travel more freely than I can these days.

That’s why I’ve recently added digital download options to my Online Gallery’s Gift-Shop extension, Makalulu Studio via Etsy, allowing collectors to access and enjoy my work instantly, no matter where they are. I plan to expand this offering in the months ahead, continuing to explore ways to keep my art accessible — untethered from tariffs, strikes, and surprise customs roadblocks.

Because if there’s one thing the last year has taught me, it’s this: art wants to move, and so do I.

Lessons for Fellow Expats & Artists Going Global

If you’re an artist navigating international exhibitions — especially from countries with strict export laws — here are a few hard-earned tips:

1. Know the Rules Early
   Research your host country’s export regulations well in advance. In Italy, original art can’t just be dropped off at DHL. You may need a “dichiarazione di esportazione” or similar official clearance.
   
2. Work With Local Art Shippers
   They know the ropes. If I had more time, I would have hired a specialist to handle the process legally and efficiently.
   
3. Build in Buffer Time
   Give yourself at least 4–6 weeks for international shipping. More if paperwork is involved.
   
4. Always Have a Plan B
   Think digital. Think reproduction. If you can’t get the originals there in time, what creative alternative still honors your work and the show?
   
5. Communicate Clearly and Kindly
   Curators understand that things go wrong. What matters most is how you handle it. Be transparent, respectful, and solution-oriented.

Capricorn: Spiraling Toward Greatness drawing from the Zodiac Series

Setback? Maybe. Stopped? Never.

This experience reminded me that even seasoned professionals can feel knocked off their feet sometimes — especially when stepping into new systems and structures. But art, at its core, is about resilience, reinvention, and creative problem-solving.

So no, this wasn’t the plan I had in mind.

But maybe, just maybe, it’s exactly the kind of expansion this work — and I — needed.

Have you faced similar challenges shipping or exhibiting internationally? I’d love to hear your story — or offer tips if you’re planning your first global art adventure. Feel free to pop in your comments below.

Whether you’re an artist, educator, or idealist, you’ve likely heard the phrase, “Do what you love, and the money will follow.” But let’s be real: turning your passion into a sustainable income doesn’t happen by magic. The good news? Opportunities abound for people with creativity, grit, and a little guidance.

Below, I’ve gathered ideas that cater to a range of skills and goals—from teaching to freelancing and beyond. Grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive into all the ways you might start earning money online!

With the rise of AI and economic uncertainties, I’ll tell anyone who’ll listen how to be more adaptable in their career. (*pic is from Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum in Berlin. Hello Dr. Freud!)

1. Teaching and Training (Online, In-Person, and Hybrid)

Teaching is one of the most rewarding ways to share your expertise while earning an income. Whether you’re a painter teaching portraiture, a writer running a workshop, or someone with a knack for building websites, there’s a student (or many) out there who needs your guidance.

Where to Start:

• Online Courses: Platforms like Skillshare and Udemy allow you to create video lessons on virtually any topic. Once your course is live, it can generate passive income for years. (Pro tip: Start with something small and specific—“How to Draw Realistic Eyes” will likely perform better than “Mastering Art.”)
  
• In-Person or Hybrid Classes: Community centers, art schools, and coworking spaces often host workshops. Or, why not take matters into your own hands and pitch a workshop to your local gallery or coffee shop? I did this very thing by offering Malawi’s very first Digital Media Accelerator for United Nations Population Fund among others.
  See the pics and learn more.

A Personal Note:
When I first started teaching online on the Udemy platform, I had just one or two students in my first class, but the experience was invaluable. I now have over 90K online students from 191 countries. (Yikes! Thank goodness they don’t all mesage me at once.) Visit me on Udemy.

Teaching online as well as in person taught me how to simplify what I knew and make it accessible to others. Even if you’re just starting out, you’ll be amazed at how much you grow while helping others do the same.

2. Selling Physical and Digital Products

If you’re already creating artwork, crafts, or resources, selling them online can provide a steady income stream. And in today’s world, you don’t need a gallery or boutique to get started.

Physical Products: Platforms like Etsy or print-on-demand services like Society6 and Redbubble can help you turn your creations into mugs, tote bags, or limited-edition prints. The best part? They handle most of the logistics so you can focus on the creative side.

Digital Products: If shipping isn’t your thing, consider selling lesson plans, templates, or e-books on platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) or Creative Market. I’ve personally found that digital downloads (while less tactile) are a fantastic way to share knowledge and reach a global audience and you don’t need to worry about a physical object getting lost or damaged in the mail.

Pro Tip: Bundle complementary items to add value. For instance, if you’re selling a workbook, include bonus templates or an instructional video as a freebie. Customers love feeling like they’re getting more than they paid for. If you create artwork, crafts, or educational resources, selling products can be a steady income stream. Focus on what you already make, and consider whether it works best as a physical or digital product.

3. Freelancing and Consulting

Do you have a marketable skill—like graphic design, writing, or social media strategy? Freelancing offers a flexible way to monetize your expertise, allowing you to work on projects you care about while building a portfolio.

Getting Started:

When I started freelancing, I reached out to my network first—friends, family, and former colleagues. It’s amazing how much support is out there when you simply let people know what you’re offering.

Platforms to Explore:

• Upwork and Fiverr: Popular for finding freelance gigs in design, writing, marketing, and more.
• Behance: Showcase your portfolio to attract clients looking for creative professionals.
• LinkedIn ProFinder: Great for finding professional consulting gigs.

Pro Tips for Success:

Use your personal network—reach out to organizations or individuals who might need your expertise.

Build a strong portfolio that showcases your best work.

4. Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is perfect for larger creative projects like exhibitions, films, or books. It allows you to connect directly with supporters who believe in your vision. Whether it’s a gallery exhibition, a short film, or a children’s book, platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe make it possible to connect directly with supporters.

A Word of Advice: Crowdfunding requires planning and effort—it’s not a “build it, and they will come” situation. You’ll need to market your campaign through engaging videos, heartfelt storytelling, and maybe even some quirky perks (think signed prints or behind-the-scenes sneak peeks).

I’ll never forget my first crowdfunding campaign (way back in 2003!). It was rough at first (my initial donations trickled in painfully slowly), but by staying consistent and sharing my “why,” I was able to fund a home for my sponsored child in Guatemala—and then some.

That first project called Aura’s House (the main website for it is now archived after 2016) later turned into over 90+ funded projects for needy families and communities served by the top-rated US charity, Children International. From 2004 up until now (I still do 1-3 charitable projects a year) I’ve been able to raise over $150,000 USD for things like houses, classrooms, income generation projects, water wells for villages, and more.

However, that very first experience taught me that people genuinely want to help when they feel connected to your mission and that no matter how long it takes, you CAN reach your goal with a bit of heart and persistence.
Here are some things (from my blog) I wish I had known when I got started with Crowdfunding.

Platforms to Explore:

• Kickstarter: Great for creative projects with specific goals and timelines.
• GoFundMe: Ideal for personal projects and causes.
• Patreon: For ongoing support, where patrons contribute monthly in exchange for exclusive content.

Pro Tips for Success:

Create a short, engaging video to explain your project and inspire people to support you.

Offer compelling rewards that make backers feel part of the journey (e.g., signed art prints, behind-the-scenes updates).

Here’s a GoFundMe screenshot of my recent successful crowdfunding campaign to help a feeding center in Lilongwe, Malawi. Those are my sons helping out in the photos.

5. Hybrid Opportunities

Some opportunities blur the lines between categories, allowing you to combine teaching, selling, and freelancing.

Examples of Hybrid Models:

• Ko-fi: A flexible platform for donations, selling digital downloads, or offering commissions.
• Your Own Website: Combine a blog, shop, and portfolio to centralize your creative offerings. You can visit my Online Art Gallery to get ideas.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Use hybrid platforms to test multiple income streams. For example, sell digital downloads while also offering consulting services.
• Leverage social media to drive traffic to your website or hybrid platforms.

Art prints from my online gallery, Ma Kalulu Studio

How to Take Action Today

Feeling overwhelmed? Start small. Pick one area that excites you, and take a concrete step:

1. Sign up for a platform (Skillshare, Etsy, or Kickstarter—your choice!).
2. Draft an idea for your first project, course, or product.
3. Share your plan with a friend or mentor—they’ll hold you accountable.

The key is to start, even if it feels messy. Action breeds momentum, and every little step adds up to something greater.

You can also download my Cha-Ching: Funding Toolkit for Artists & Idealists to access step-by-step guidance, a workbook, and bonus resources to help you succeed!

Preview the Cha-Ching Course

In the course, you’ll learn how to:

• Discover funding opportunities tailored to your skills.
• Launch a crowdfunding campaign that stands out.
• Monetize your creative work through freelancing, selling, and teaching.
  Learn more: Cha-Ching: Funding Toolkit for Artists & Idealists
  

In Closing

Earning a living as a creative is challenging but entirely possible. With a mix of passion, strategy, and experimentation, you can build a sustainable career doing work you love. Remember: you don’t have to do it all at once. Start where you are, with what you have, and let your journey unfold one step at a time.

So, which path resonates most with you? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your plans and cheer you on.

I’m not going to lie—these days, it’s tough for idealists. The world often feels like it’s crumbling, with social media amplifying hate, division, and disaster.

But in this time of turbulence, we’re also more interconnected and informed than ever.

Artists, especially, have the unique ability to inspire, uplift, and help to create the world we actually want to live in.

So, yes… sometimes we need to stick our fingers in our ears and sing “na na na!” just to tune inward and bring across messages and healing images that can lift ourselves out of our own funk as well as bring hope and inspiration to others.

It’s a unique privilege—and responsibility!

Woven Season: Ginkgo Leaves by Kristen Palana. The distinct and elegant leaves of the ginkgo have come to represent peace amidst destruction, stability during upheaval, and hope in the face of despair.

From Myanmar to Malawi: Finding Hope in the Struggle

My family and I spent the past eight years in some of the world’s poorest countries, including Myanmar and Malawi. We saw firsthand the resilience that blossoms in people who face unimaginable challenges daily.

They taught us that you can find joy even in chaos. You can be the architect of your own mental space—creating calm amidst the storm. This resilience is something that all artists can harness and reflect in their work, offering it to others as a message of hope.

Becoming an Artist-Leader: Why Art Can Be an Act of Hope

In times of uncertainty, we must remember that while we can’t control global events, we can control our response. Rather than giving our power away by pinning hope on distant leaders, we can become leaders in our own lives.

We control the words we use, the quality of our own thoughts and intentions, how we treat and relate to others (even the ones we disagree with), and we also can co-create our own immediate environments whether at home, at work, or out on the street.

For artists, this means also infusing your work with positive intentions, consciously crafting art that inspires or comforts.

You can make images that calm the spirit, evoke joy, educate, or cultivate understanding. Art, after all, doesn’t just reflect the world—it helps shape it.

Creating Art That Heals

Here are a few ways artists can create hope and healing through their work:

• Subject Matter: Choose themes and symbols that evoke positive emotions. Nature scenes, cross-cultural symbols of peace, or uplifting patterns can remind viewers of their resilience and strength.
  
  Rather than mirroring pain, create the world you want to live in—one filled with kindness, strength, and community. Art has the power to shape perceptions, and by drawing hope, you offer a vision of what could be.
  
  
• Color Choices: Using color psychology, you can direct the viewer’s emotions—earth tones and greens for calm, blues for focus, reds and oranges for optimism and warmth.
  
  If you’d like to explore the power of using color more intentionally in your art as well as your daily life, have a look at my earlier blog post 7 Color Hacks That Will Dramatically Improve Your Day. You can also explore the free preview lessons from my online color course with the amazing spiritual teacher Sharon Ramel, Beginners Uplifting Color Therapy For Self Empowerment.
  
  
• Artistic Values: Beyond technique, consider the deeper values your art conveys through choices in materials, lines, and composition. Natural materials like wood or clay can reflect groundedness and connection, while vibrant synthetic mediums might embody resilience and modern energy. Every material carries an inherent message that can subtly reinforce themes of hope and healing.
  
  Think, too, about the style of your lines and overall composition. Fluid, soft lines can evoke calm, while bold, dynamic strokes suggest strength and vitality. A balanced, harmonious composition may bring a sense of peace, while intentional movement in an asymmetrical layout can signify growth and adaptability. Through thoughtful choices, you create a visual language that mirrors resilience and invites viewers into a space of healing and inspiration.

Sharing Hope Far and Wide

If you have been able to make art that brings inspiration and hope to others, it’s time to share it.

Consider submitting it through open calls to in-person and online gallery exhibitions. Post your work online in communities or on your social media pages.

You might also turn your originals into art prints, wearable art, or even animations and videos. Other ideas include exploring collaborating with other artists who share your mission and meet together in person or online to bounce ideas around and give each other feedback. Together, your reach—and your impact—can grow exponentially.

Don’t underestimate the impact of sharing your art. Your voice matters, and by bringing hope into the world, you’re contributing to a much-needed ripple effect of positivity.

You Have the Power to Light the Way

When artists create work that inspires hope and healing, they offer a gift to the world. This is a gift that doesn’t rely on politicians or institutions; it’s available to anyone who chooses to engage with it. So, as an artist, remember that your work has the power to lead, to uplift, and to heal.

Let’s keep creating the world we want to live in—one piece at a time.

“Be Kind” mural created for Bishop McKenzie International School in Lilongwe, Malawi by Kristen Palana

P.S. If you are ready to reach your art, design, communication, and business goals faster and need personalized guidance, custom help, and an enthusiastic cheerleader moving forward, explore ways we might work together.

If you’ve ever wondered how artists can successfully fundraise online, this guide will walk you through simple, proven steps to make your creative project a reality.

Let’s talk about a side of crowdfunding that rarely gets the spotlight—how it can empower artists to raise the funds they need for their creative projects, whether that’s a new exhibition, a book, or a community art initiative.

The core principles are the same, whether raising funds for a nonprofit or a creative project. Over my years of experience raising over $100K for humanitarian causes, I’ve found that successful crowdfunding boils down to an approach I like to call “inside-out thinking.”

Taking a break in July from my move to Italy from Malawi- Making stained glass in the USA

Here’s what that means: if you really believe in your project, it’s about being all in—engaging your inner circle first, moving outward gradually, and sustaining momentum even when the initial excitement has passed. Here’s how you, as an artist, can apply the same principles to secure funding for your passion projects.

Step 1: Start With Yourself

Yes, the first donation should come from you. Why? It’s about showing your commitment. Your backers want to feel that you genuinely believe in your project. Even a modest contribution—$5, $10, or more—shows visitors that you’re invested and already making strides. No one wants to be the “first” to donate to a project sitting at $0, so by contributing yourself, you give others that critical nudge.

Pro Tip: If you’re able, make additional small donations periodically, even anonymously. This helps keep momentum going when the campaign lags.

Step 2: Your Inner Circle of Friends and Family

In the first days of your campaign, reach out individually to close family and friends. A personalized email or message, ideally with their name, is essential. Let them know how much even a small contribution would mean to you. Avoid sending one mass message! People are far more likely to respond if you ask them individually.

Why This Matters: When friends and family support you early on, you build social proof. This effect will help attract new donors as it shows people that others believe in your project.

My artist friend Justin P. Moore regularly runs successful Kickstarter campaigns to create new editions of his popular vegan cookbooks, “The Lotus and the Artichoke” series

Step 3: Acquaintances and Wider Networks

Once your inner circle has given some initial support, start branching out. Social media is a great tool here—post updates, share snippets about your project’s progress, and ask for small contributions or shares. This stage is all about visibility and connecting with those who know you but may not be part of your close circle.

Tip for Artists: When you post about your campaign, add compelling visuals of your work. Crowdfunding for art is a visual journey; potential backers need to feel your passion and see your artistic vision.

Step 4: Strangers and the Public at Large

Now that your project has gained traction, it’s time to reach the broader audience. Try reaching out to online communities, relevant art groups, and potential press contacts. Here, the key is to show how your art makes an impact, whether through storytelling or visuals. Consider sharing your story in online art groups or with local press, highlighting what makes your project unique and why it deserves support.

Here’s a GoFundMe screenshot of my recent successful crowdfunding campaign to help a feeding center in Lilongwe, Malawi. Those are my sons helping out in the photos.

Step 5: Rinse and Repeat

Momentum tends to slow down mid-campaign, so this is the perfect time to reinvigorate interest. Post updates, share new visuals or even mini-goals (like raising an extra $200 to purchase supplies), and continue engaging with your audience.

Bonus Tips:

• Create Small Wins: Set mini-goals that make it easy for people to feel that they’ve contributed to something tangible. For example, if $50 buys materials for one painting, let people know!
• Use Rewards: Thank backers with small perks like digital prints, exclusive updates, or an acknowledgment on social media. Even the smallest token of appreciation can go a long way.

Perks and artistic rewards from Justin P. Moore’s recent Kickstarter project

The process may look simple, but successful crowdfunding for your art project requires dedication and determination. Each step pushes you outside your comfort zone but leads you closer to creating something that will bring your vision to life. So start with yourself, tap into your community, and stay consistent. With these steps, your art project can become more than just a dream—it can be a shared journey with your supporters.

P.S. Need extra help with your crowdfunding journey? Whether you’re looking to refine your campaign, boost your social media presence, design a compelling website, or map out a full project plan, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Visit the Artists and Idealists Growth Studio to learn how we can work together to make your creative vision a reality. Let’s turn your artistic passion into a fully-funded success!

Malawian Inspired Art: 2019-2024

Greetings from Lilongwe, Malawi. I hope you’re doing well.

As you may have heard, Malawi is currently grappling with the tragic loss of Vice President Saulos Chilima who died this week in a tragic plane crash. This is a time of deep sorrow for many, and my heart goes out to his family and all those affected by this loss.

In these moments of reflection, I’m reminded of the ways Malawi has inspired my art over the past five years.

The “Warm Heart of Africa” has enriched my palette with its vibrant orange soil and serene powder blue skies. It has reignited my passion for patterns and fabrics, and brought me back to my roots as a fine artist.

Before I move back to Italy in a few weeks, I’d like to share some of my Malawian inspired art and design from my time here that capture the essence of this beautiful country and its influence on my work.

Nthambi and Friends are a set of characters I created for United Nations Population Fund Malawi in 2019. They have appeared in social media campaigns, posters, PSA banners in refugee camps, on mobile clinics, and in their own animated webisodes. See more here.

In 2021, while still making content for UN organizations, I started getting strained eyes from staring at all those screens.

I also caught Covid. Thankfully I never got too ill, but it did force me to consider why I never pursued being a fine artist more fearlessly.

While I was still a 19 year-old art student, I got spooked out of pursuing a fine art career. I saw my peers and professors struggling to make ends meet and achieve promotions or recognition. At that same time, I was working for a gallery owner in Provincetown, MA. who one day up and fled to China to avoid paying his artists and (ahem) faithful gallery assistant!

So I played it safe, switched my focus to digital media, and at the age of 25, became a full-time university professor. My “art” started to become anything that would help me get tenure or a promotion. Not very inspiring!

Long story short, fast forward to Malawi in 2021… I was having the regrets a woman on her deathbed might have, even though I (presumably) still had plenty of life in me.

That’s when I started painting again and making Malawian inspired art. Among the first ones I made were chakra paintings inspired by the wildlife, plants, and chitenje (textile) patterns of Malawi!

It was around this time in August of 2021 that I then launched Ma Kalulu Studio both as a physical studio and also an online gallery/ gift shop.

Which Artwork Do YOU Most Associate With Malawi?

I’m adding a few more Malawian-infused artworks here. Did I leave out your favorite? Please let me know which I should have included by replying in the comments.

I started in late 2021 with Malawian animals (wood carvings usually) with “not to be ignored” chitenje bottlecap backgrounds. Later the Malawian colors and patterns spilled into my sacred geometry series.

To Lead is to Serve: Carved Elephant

Abundant Harvest: Food Security Meditation

Masked Weaver: Lake Malawi

There’s also something new I’m working on right now, but it’s still in the very early stages. It will be the 13th in my sacred geometry series. This humble drawing in progress aims to be the most Malawian drawing of all.

It uses the egg of life which symbolizes growth and represents new life, rebirth and fertility.

I’m going to be filling each circle with a chitenje design. The first one stands for the root chakra, and also is a representation of Malawi’s warm heart (in red). I also just started the orange sacral chakra representation. Its chitenje pattern contains light bulbs and gears to show Malawi’s innovation and creativity.

I hope to show you more progress on it soon.

Well, as I pack up my studio in preparation to move to Rome, Italy soon, we decided to take one last trip outside of Lilongwe.

Here are a few images from our trek to Malawi’s last rain forest and Ntchisi Forest Lodge.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Your support means the world, and I’m excited to share more from my new adventures in Italy. Until then, let’s celebrate the beauty and resilience of Malawi together.

Warmest regards,
Kristen

P.S.S. Still thinking about adding positive, vibrant energy to your spaces so you feel and perform at your best or learning how to make your own vibrant art?

Here are 3 other ways that I can help you:

1. Affordable Art Perfect for Gifting: Ma Kalulu Studio’s Gift Shop

2. Self-Paced Online Courses & Live Meet-Ups: Learn Art, Design, Creativity, Branding, Social Media, & More

3. Done For You Services: Bespoke Custom Art & Design Made to Order

There’s so much going on at the moment. I’ll try not to be too long-winded…

First, I wanted to share some new Malawian-inspired art created recently. The largest piece by far is a mural I designed. It was painted in April and completed a few weeks ago.

My former UNFPA digital media student Alain Bulldor Bonane and I painted chitenje patterns as well as Malawian birds, animals, flora, and fauna to create a colorful quilted effect on a large 3D “Be Kind” metal sculpture.

This mural was created for BMIS International School in Lilongwe and it celebrates everything we love about our host country. Made with love by one expat and one refugee. We are both moving on soon and are glad to leave this behind. Zikomo Malawi!

Come see a mini video of us working on it to view it in 3D here.

To learn more about custom art, design, and commission projects that I do for individuals and organizations, please visit here.

Moving On? Mamma Mia!

It’s Rome 2.0 time! After 8 glorious years in Asia and Africa—meeting the most amazing people, embarking on adventures, and doing our best to be of service—my family and I have recently felt the winds of change blowing us back to Italy for Round 2.

(Those who know me remember that we lived there from 2006-2016…) There’s lots to do and organize, but we plan to be there in less than 2 months, just in time for the hot and sticky weather!

Nothing will change in terms of my Ma Kalulu Studio activities or my training and design consulting work as I’m (thankfully) a location-independent kind of gal.

I do look forward to continuing to collaborate with old friends and colleagues worldwide as well as doing some in-person art, design, and training in la bella Roma.

See you there? Leave a comment below or contact me if you would like to meet up or work together in the not so distant future.

New Malawian-Inspired Art -Mixed Media Drawings

Happy (belated) birthday Taurus! ♉️ This is my latest drawing (pictured above in the lower right corner) that I made for you. It has symbols and patterns from every continent. You can read more about the symbols and cultures depicted here.

I also recently completed (pictured below): The Birthday

This is a drawing influenced by stained glass, textiles, and weaving, which invites viewers to embrace a broader perspective on age and value.

It features the silhouette of a woman on her birthday, encircled by patterns from cultures renowned for revering their eldest members, especially women. Please see the full description to read about the cultures represented.

Now Playing: New Mentorship Group for Artists

Before I sign off, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of a new mentorship group that started in May. This group is your gateway to mastering the art of business—from efficient studio management and financial diversity to navigating the digital landscape with AI and tech tools. If you’re looking to elevate your art and find new avenues of income, this is the place for you.

And last but not least, Congratulations to PATRICIA who WON my April giveaway of a fine art print!

Thanks to all who participated in the drawing! If you’d like to enter this month, please CLICK HERE.

Well, that’s all for now. Thanks as always for keeping up with my art and teaching. Wishing you all the best!

Sincerely,
Kristen

P.S. Still thinking about adding positive, vibrant energy to your living or workspace so you feel and perform at your best?

Here are 4 other ways that I can help you:

1. Affordable Art Perfect for Gifting: Ma Kalulu Studio’s Gift Shop

2. Self-Paced Online Courses: Learn Art, Design, Creativity, Color Tricks & More

3. Done For You Services: Bespoke Custom Art & Design Made to Order

4. Win a FREE Art Print From Ma Kalulu Studio. Enter This Month’s Drawing.