Well, let’s just say that 2020 was indeed memorable. Between the insanely awful worldwide Pandemic (in which COVID-19 continues on), the crazy election and the insurrection, we are in a world where I still can’t sleep at night and the skies turned red from fires in San Francisco. It been one of the scariest years of my life.

I am so ready for the new President Biden and Vice President Harris to take over. It’s a month into 2020 and I feel like I can breath a little bit better but things still seem pretty worrisome. The painting below was illustrating how I felt through most of the year. I am hoping for the best but I believe it will be another year of reflection, hardship and big changes.

Debra Styer, Night and Doom, 2020

This is the year I turn 50! Yikes! It all seems so strange. Life passes so fast.

My big focus this year will be getting my work out there. I also want to do a few more gallery shows, participate in some illustration classes and update my portfolio.

As an artist, sometimes you get so caught up in the making of the art you forget to share it with the world. Or, I am just too nervous/scared to truly take myself seriously as an artist. Truth is, I am sick of being afraid of the next steps in my illustration life. I would love to get involved with cool illustrated projects and get enough courage to contact publishers and agents. It’s time to move forward. No more excuses…

If 2020 has taught me anything, it’s the importance of connection. I yearn to feel that connection to the world again. I want to be part of something and make a difference. Don’t you?

What will be your focus this year?

p.s. I am also trying to start writing again. Wish me luck!