Studio Thoughts: Preparing for My First Art Pop Show
A Quiet Step Toward Recovery, Visibility, and Vulnerability
I recently received an invitation to participate in a local art pop-up show.
And I hesitated.
Even though I’ve been painting seriously for years, pitching my work to brands, building a surface design business, and even selling art online. This would be the first time I’d stand face-to-face with people as an artist.
Not through email.
Not through Instagram.
But in real life, as me.
This Feels Different
I’ve spoken in front of thousands of people before at conferences, workshops, and professional trainings. I’ve explained algorithms, content strategies, vocabulary control, and user experience design with confidence and clarity. But this?
This is not a product demo. This is my heart.
Showing my art, explaining my paintings, answering questions from strangers about the parts of myself I put into brushstrokes. It felt terrifying. Exposing. Like being emotionally naked in a public space.
I’m a deeply private person. I’ve kept most of my personal life close, even while sharing my art publicly. So my first instinct was simple: say no. Stay safe. Hide behind the comfort of online spaces
But Then I Took a Breath
I let myself spiral through the doubts. I heard the familiar voice of my inner control freak, trying to talk me out of it.
Then I did something I’ve learned to do something I used to guide others through when I worked as a certified professional coach.
I turned inward.
I closed my eyes, breathed deeply, and asked myself
What’s the worst that could happen if I said yes?
I imagined every scenario.
And none of them were truly frightening.
None of them were worth giving up this opportunity.
This Is More Than a Show
This art pop show isn’t just about selling paintings or gaining exposure.
It’s about reclaiming my voice as an artist in a physical space.
It’s about healing, about building confidence, and stepping into a version of myself I’ve quietly nurtured behind the scenes.
I’m still recovering. I’m still learning how to soften.
But this event feels like a gentle turning point. One I don’t want to run from.
So I’m saying yes.
Yes to growth.
Yes to courage.
Yes to being seen.
Even if I feel vulnerable.
Even if my hands tremble while I hang the paintings.
Even if my voice shakes when someone asks me what a certain brushstroke means.
Because this time, I’m not just a coach, a speaker, or a designer.
I’m an artist.
And I’m showing up.
Step into the soft life
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(c) 2025 Huda R. Farhan. All rights reserved
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