At the beginning of 2025 I set myself a few challenges that I’ve called my 25 in 2025 challenges. These challenges ranged from “read 25 books” to “write 25 blog posts”.

One of the challenges I set out for myself was to complete 25 finished, individual paintings in 2025. I’m pleased to say that I have completed my goal of finishing 25 paintings this year, and have actually surpassed this number of paintings.

I set myself these goals as a way to help myself lead a more values driven life. Having a set goal in place has helped me to stick with painting continually throughout 2025 and has helped me to get back on track after slow periods.

Here is a selection of some of the paintings I painted this year:

I have been strongly influenced by several factors this year. The first one being my exploration into post impressionism and fauvism- particularly my interest in Cezanne, Paul Gauguin and Van Gogh. Secondly I have been inspired by attending groups and making connections with fellow artists. I have been attending life drawing sessions with live models at Blackburn Life Drawing and Hush both of which attract very talented artists and I have learned a lot from attending these sessions.

I have of course been very inspired by, and encouraged by my fellow artists at The Thursday Art Club in Pendleton. Having a place to meet with like minded people and being surrounded by talented and knowledgeable artists has been continually inspiring this year. The changing themes are challenging and push me out of my comfort zone, but also give me a reason to continue creating every month.

As I continue on in the last few months of 2025 I will start to think about what kind of challenges I can set myself for 2026. I hope you have managed to complete whatever goals you’ve set out for yourself this year, and if not, there’s still time to make progress!