This year has brought its fair share of challenges, some more difficult than others, and some lingering from the previous year. These obstacles impacted my approach to Paraffin, leading to a somewhat disengaged social media presence and an overall absence from the platform. What began as an unexpected indefinite hiatus turned into a necessary Leave of Absence (LOA). It wasn’t about quitting Paraffin; rather, it was a chance to step back, reassess, and return with a fresh perspective. I realized that my personal life’s complexities were affecting the platform. As a “one-man band,” personal challenges inevitably influenced Paraffin. While I won’t delve into specifics, it became clear that a break was essential for personal growth and evolution.
That said, I did have goals for this year and a list of planned content aimed at expanding our platform and strengthening our community.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who continued to check our website for updates and remained engaged even when there was little new content. Your support and patience mean the world to me, and I apologize for not keeping you better informed.
Today, I’m back with a renewed focus and, unsurprisingly, some ambitious plans both professionally and personally. I have a backlog of content to share, starting with my trip to New York City this past March. I’ll be writing about various exhibitions and fairs, including the 2024 Whitney Biennial, the Affordable Art Fair, the Guggenheim, a chilly late-night visit to Times Square, and a stop at the PPOW Gallery in Manhattan. This trip was an incredible experience, and as a New York native, it felt like coming home. It also played a significant role in my decision to take a LOA. Leaving a place that felt so right was emotionally challenging, but it ultimately provided the perspective I needed.
The backlog doesn’t stop there. I also took a week-long trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, where I enjoyed the Back to the Future musical (which I highly recommend if it’s still touring), explored the Mint Museum, and sampled many local restaurants.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to attend Artville in Nashville, Tennessee, in the coming weeks. I hope to reconnect with familiar faces, discover new art, and continue my backlog of artist profiles.
PS. With that said, this writer, artist, and designer is currently exploring career opportunities in New York, Chicago, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. I’m also open to considering opportunities in Miami and thee far-fetched Puerto Rico if the right position arises.
