The Art of Letting Go: How Nature and Creativity Help Us to Embrace the Unknown

There’s a quiet kind of wisdom that whispers to us while we’re in nature—one that reminds us that we don’t need to have everything figured out. Like rivers carving their way through the landscape, changing course as obstacles come in their way — nature shows us how to trust the process, even when the path ahead isn’t clear.

As an artist, I’ve come to realize that creating art mirrors this lesson beautifully. When I begin a new painting, I have an idea but never fully know where it will end up. Each brushstroke, each layer of paint and mixed media, each new texture is a step into the unknown. I’ve learned to let go of perfection, to follow curiosity, and to welcome the unexpected moments that give a piece its soul. I let the painting lead me where it wants to go. 

In both art and nature, there’s a kind of magic in surrendering. It’s not about giving up, but about opening ourselves to transformation and possibility. It’s about trusting that the unknown holds beauty we haven’t imagined yet—and that we are capable of growing into it.

Whether I’m watching the acorns fall from a large oak tree in fall or standing before a blank canvas, I’m reminded that letting go isn’t something to fear—it’s how we make space for something new to take root. I’ll admit that I feel more confident with letting go in my art process than in real life sometimes. Some habits are tough to break. Some feelings can feel intense. However, in the stillness, the messiness, and the mystery, we often find exactly what we didn’t know we were looking for.  We find the inner strength or guidance to trust to take another step forward.

So if you're in a season of uncertainty, I invite you to spend time with nature or try creating something with your hands. Watch what happens when you stop trying to control the outcome—and just allow yourself to be present with what’s unfolding. You might be surprised at what beauty shows up.

If this message spoke to your heart, I’d love to stay connected. Join my email community for a little inspiration, studio updates, and first looks at new artwork that celebrates our connection to nature. And if you're curious to see how my art process meets the canvas, take a moment to explore the RESTORE art collection — each piece is a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and embrace the beauty of nature.