Celebrating Summer’s End Through Art & Connection

As summer winds down, I find myself reflecting on the spaces where art, music, and community intersect. These moments are the heartbeat of my creative journey — the reason I paint, curate, and keep showing up for the work.

Tonight, I’ll be at Harper Court for Hey Good People: End of Summer Art Sidewalk Social, an evening that celebrates the magic of Chicago’s creative spirit. Hosted by Recycled Modern and The Silver Room, this event brings together talented artists, makers, and designers alongside the Harper Court Music Series for one unforgettable night.

Why This Matters to Me

Events like this take me back to the block parties of my childhood — warm nights filled with music, laughter, and the hum of possibility. My brother, DJ Stretch, spinning records that made the whole block dance. My sisters and I running candy-store pop-ups, learning the thrill of creating something from nothing. Neighbors setting up tables with treasures to share, adding to the rhythm of community.

Those moments planted the seeds for everything I do today. My art is a reflection of that same spirit — a desire to connect, to create, and to tell stories through color, texture, and movement. When I curate shows or bring artists together, it’s a continuation of that legacy of shared energy and collaboration.

What to Expect Tonight

This isn’t just a sidewalk sale; it’s a cultural experience. The courtyard will be filled with:

🎨 Art & Makers – original artwork, handmade goods, and one-of-a-kind designs
🎶 Music – DJ Stretch and DJ Akari bringing the soundtrack to our shared experience
🛍 Shopping with Heart – support small businesses and take home something meaningful

For over 20 years, The Silver Room Block Party has shown Chicago the power of artistry, music, and community in the streets. Hey Good People continues that legacy, reframed through the collective energy of today’s creative network.

Join Us

Featured Artists + Makers

Found Objects • Reformed School • Martha Wade • Anthony Olusina • Daniel Wilson • PLSH Life • Memoir Fragrances • Charm Bar at Suuri Design and Vintage Wears by COALESCE

If you’re in Chicago, come through tonight and be part of something vibrant and real. Let’s close out summer surrounded by culture, creativity, and connection.

📍 Harper Court | 5235 S. Harper Ct, Chicago IL 60615
🗓 Tonight, 6–10PM

Here’s to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and creating the future — together.

#Wadecreate #ChicagoArts #SupportLocal #CreativeCommunity

🌿 August Journal Prompts & Affirmations for Artists Balancing It All

August is the bridge between the heat of summer and the whispers of Fall. It’s a month of reflection, grounding, and preparation for what’s next. For artists who wear many hats—creator, curator, entrepreneur, teacher, leader—this season invites us to pause, breathe, and realign with our creative spirit.

Here are 15 journal prompts paired with affirmations to help you nurture your art, your balance, and your sense of self this month. I write these for myself, as an ARTreprenuer working and living in the art world!

Creative Practice

1. Journal Prompt: What small daily ritual grounds me before I begin creating?
✨ Affirmation: I honor my process, and each ritual roots me in creativity.

2. Journal Prompt: Where did I surprise myself in my art this summer?
✨ Affirmation: I celebrate my growth and the unexpected beauty that flows through me.

3. Journal Prompt: How can I bring more play and experimentation into my process this month?
✨ Affirmation: I give myself permission to play, explore, and take risks with joy.

4. Journal Prompt: What does “abundance” look like in my studio right now?
✨ Affirmation: My creative space is overflowing with possibility and potential.

5. Journal Prompt: If I set no limits, what dream project would I start today?
✨ Affirmation: My dreams are valid, and I am capable of bringing them to life.

Balancing Business + Creativity

6. Journal Prompt: What task or responsibility can I delegate or simplify this month to make space for art?
✨ Affirmation: I create room for art by releasing what I do not need to carry alone.

7. Journal Prompt: How does my art business reflect my values?
✨ Affirmation: My work and my values are aligned, and that alignment attracts opportunity.

8. Journal Prompt: What one bold step could I take to expand my audience or reach in August?
✨ Affirmation: I am brave enough to share my gifts with the world.

9. Journal Prompt: Where do I need to set clearer boundaries between my work and personal time?
✨ Affirmation: Boundaries protect my peace, my art, and my energy.

10. Journal Prompt: How do I measure success beyond sales or recognition?
✨ Affirmation: True success is in the joy, freedom, and fulfillment I find in creating.

Balance, 36x48” Acrylic on Canvas by Martha A. Wade

Personal + Inner Growth

11. Journal Prompt: What lesson did July teach me that I’m carrying forward?
✨ Affirmation: Every season of my life is a teacher, and I honor its wisdom.

12. Journal Prompt: Where in my life do I need more rest and gentleness?
✨ Affirmation: I deserve rest, softness, and care just as much as I deserve growth.

13. Journal Prompt: How can I celebrate myself daily, even in small ways?
✨ Affirmation: I am worthy of celebration every single day.

14. Journal Prompt: Which relationships nourish me most, and how can I show gratitude for them this month?
✨ Affirmation: I am surrounded by love, support, and community that uplifts me.

15. Journal Prompt: What do I want to release before fall arrives?
✨ Affirmation: I let go of what no longer serves me and make space for what’s meant for me.

Whether you write through these prompts all at once or savor them slowly, let August be a month where your art and spirit move together with ease.

Outstanding Achievement Award

Honored & Grateful: My Outstanding Achievement Award at Southport Art Fest

A few weeks ago, something truly special happened — I was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Southport Art Fest!

The award, presented by Amy Amdur, president of Amdur Productions, was given in recognition of my body of work. Hearing her say that my art stood out not just for one piece, but for the entire collection I brought to the festival, was deeply affirming.

As an artist, I pour my heart into every creation — from the first spark of inspiration to the final brushstroke. To have that dedication noticed and celebrated in this way is an incredible honor.

The Southport Art Fest itself was such a vibrant experience — two full days of connecting with collectors, art lovers, and neighbors in one of Chicago’s most charming neighborhoods. The energy was high, the conversations were inspiring, and the community’s love for art was palpable.

This recognition isn’t just mine. It’s a reflection of all the people who have supported, encouraged, and inspired me along the way — my family, fellow artists, collectors, and the amazing art fair organizers who give us these spaces to share our work.

Thank you to Amy Amdur, the Southport Neighborhood Association, and every single person who visited my booth, shared a kind word, or took a piece of my art home.

I’m walking away from this experience more inspired than ever, and I can’t wait to share what’s next on my journey.

✨ If you’ve been thinking about adding an original piece to your collection, now’s the time — browse my available works here.

Here’s to creating, sharing, and celebrating art together!