Balancing Art & Motherhood, Aubrey’s Story.
I have known Aubrey since we were in college studying graphic design together. She has always inspired me with her artistic eye and her even greater ability to light up any room she walks into! She truly is a light and has so much charisma, fun, and laughter to share with the world.
I love how Aubrey finds balance in motherhood by prioritizing her family AND her art. I can truly relate to that, because I try to do the same with my motherhood and creative practices. She has been thriving as an illustrator creating patterns for brands like Nordstrom and Target, launching her own wallpaper collection, and most of all, doing what she loves. She inspires me to find joy in the everyday and to pursue the things I’m most passionate about.
Aubrey’s Reflections:
Child of my Imagination, Portraits of Motherhood, 2023
I always say I was a much better mother when my children were imaginary. I thought I'd get to snuggle all day long and that toddlers would sit perfectly still. It's much harder when you're actually in the trenches and experiencing it live…
A big thing mothering has taught me is to have patience in the rudimentary and routine things.
A newborn will teach you to that in a week, through countless spit up soaked outfits changes, diaper changes, and nursing sessions. I've found this patience extends to my every day life tasks as well.
Artist and Mother, Portraits of Motherhood, 2023
It's difficult to find balance in motherhood, because balance looks different for every mother. Some women find balance in working full time, some find it in squeezing in time for a kid free bath.
For me, balance has been working one day a week.
I've found joy in creating patterns and using my creativity in art. It helps ease my guilt too that my son gets to go play with his neighborhood buddy while I work. We both get a small break from each other.
I feel like it's good to miss each other. It makes our time together even sweeter.
Rudimentary and Routine Things, Portraits of Motherhood, 2023
I have always dreamt of being a mother and constantly think of how I want my children to remember their childhood. I want them to look back and remember laughter, teasing, and most of all love.
I want their favorite place to be home.
For home to be a safe space, a place where they get their hands messy and learn to bake with mom in the kitchen. A place where they can cry and feel comforted. A place where they can mess up and know help is a hug away. I want them to know through it all, they will always be loved.
