Discover the key to a joy-rich life Reflecting on a year of growth and success…
I hope 2024 was joy rich for you. That was my theme for this year and my intention experiment came true. I met so many beautiful new and repeat collectors, experimented with new paintings, released love-inspired stories, started learning and playing guitar, changed people’s lives with my joy-infused creations…and you changed mine! I hope you enjoy this summary of some of the many highlights.
As I began this yearly review, it was 11 January 2024—a new moon in Capricorn. I was listening to British Astrologer Lee Harris talk about the purging energy many of us have been through and predict that 2024 would be a year to go deeper into our purpose. His prompting inspired me to begin my year in review and reaffirm my purpose—showing up for love and bringing more beauty and joy into people’s lives.
This oracle card from my The Art of Life Inspiration Deck reminds us all to cherish our vibrant memories https://shop.thejoyfulartist.co.nz/product/the-art-of-life-inspiration-deck/
As I shared in my 2023 in review—fun, fab and fearless, a fun ritual I’ve started is beginning the day with a one-word intention. Words hold vibrations. Some words lift us higher, and some send us spiralling into despair. Words guide us, and words deliver the things we want in our lives (or not…depending on whether you’re using word wands or wielding swords). The way you flourish your words affects how or if you manifest your desires.
You may enjoy this video where I share a practical example of employing a one word/sentence intentions. You’ll also see some of my new soft pastel works:
This year, I’ve themed 2024 around the words Joy Rich. Joy is one of the highest vibrational states we can achieve. It embodies so many energies—love, peace, happiness…and, of course, joy! For me, it embodies the passion and purpose I have for painting and storytelling—to send love letters to the world and to paint and write about the themes important to me.
I wanted to double down on the joy and love that I had begun to experience more deeply and profoundly since purging and releasing the pain and trauma of 2022 and 2023 of my family’s betrayal. And I got off to a fabulous start.
My partner has encouraged me, at the risk of sounding big-headed, to blow my own trumpet and celebrate the many lives I have impacted with my commitment to showing up for and sharing my joy.
On the third of January, a lovely local lady asked me if she could come to my studio for a private viewing with a friend visiting from Germany. This year I had decided I didn’t want to feel like I “should” open my studio every weekend but open when I felt called to or someone wanted to. Perfectly manifested! Hello@thejoyfulartist.co.nz—drop me an email if you would love a private viewing:)
The card I drew from the Art of Life Inspiration Deck that day was “Give happiness and joy to others. Uplifting, others boost your happiness too.”
As I wrote in my journal, “A truer word could not have been written or spoken. A lovely, lovely lady called me last night to range a private viewing of the studio and went home with three of my very special works on paper.
The best thing of all is that one of the paintings in particular, she said she chose because it was going to inspire her to be bold and confident as she pursues her art too.
Another couple called in also, having seen I was open, and went home with ideas for their garden and visited the neighbouring alpacas.”
You may enjoy this blog, https://www.thejoyfulartist.co.nz/8-of-the-best-things-about-visiting-an-artist-gallery-and-buying-art-direct-from-them/
Last year, all the personal drama was so distracting that I only published one love story. I am loving January. I am having so much fun writing love stories. 2024 was off to a fine start! I finished Stolen By The Sheikh, which is available now for pre-order. I love this story so much and hope you do.
Why a sheikh romance? It’s the perfect escape—and healing too.
“The Sheikh’s Untamed Brides is a series about six brothers and sisters who call the beautiful desert kingdom of Avana home. They’re all successful, passionate, and waiting for the perfect partner in love and life.
The first book in the series is about Tariq na Hassir, who has been elevated to Crown Prince following the tragic death of his elder brother in Claimed By The Sheikh, Book 1 in The Sheikh’s Untamed Brides. Anwar, his younger brother, is in this book.
A returnee student (a florist) and her friend contacted me for a special curated art retreat…. yipeeeeeee
Such a happy day on 10 January (just after I finished Stolen By The Sheikh) visiting my gorgeous collectors in their new architecturally built home, seeing the two paintings they had commissioned from me so joyous in their new surroundings, and sharing wine and food, and laughter…. Lots and lots of laughter
In this video, I share the creative process behind one of the artworks commissioned by this couple as ‘statement pieces’ to adorn the large white walls of their then soon-to-be-completed architecturally designed home.
The brief was “we want it to be a landscape from your mind.” You’ll see the painting evolve from inception to completion and learn more about the story which inspired the painting.
Fun! Fun! Fun is a 1600 x 1100 abstract painting on canvas. As you will see, it is beautifully and lovingly layered with sensuously sultry glazes of acrylic Fun! Fun! Fun! embodies the high-vibe energy of flow, optimism, happiness and joy that our souls ache for after the tumultuous, confining past years of Covid lockdowns.
The painting was completed during one of the worse New Zealand summers on record, during particularly wet and stormy days as driving rain pummeled the studio. In the ‘landscape of my mind,’ I looked to rays of sunshine, bright rainbows stretching across the sky, brilliant shades of flowers. Each touch of colour brightens our day and hints of fresh promise.
Colour brings with it an intrinsic, uplifting sense of hope and optimism—and yes, fun! “Wow! It’s beautiful! Don’t change a thing!” the couple told me when they saw the first completed piece
“We absolutely love the painting. Just so exciting to be part of the process. So great to work with you with lots of fun discussions too. Would highly recommend commissioning a piece of art by Cassandra as a way to depict a landscape from a mind in such a fun and beautiful way.”
Fun! Fun! Fun! Is Inspired by my love of the natural landscape, the pioneering abstract expressionism of Helen Frankenthaler in the 60s and the stunning sea views from my gallery and the couple’s new home. This is an intuitively inspired joyous painting.
Life is beautiful with beautiful souls sharing their joy with me at one day art retreat. It was especially wonderful to experience the day with a mum and her daughter.
“I liked how I could be so creative with the paints and go freedom with it. I feel like paint is now a toy to me so I can play with all the different colours and get all messy. I’m proud of myself for trying different things with paint! I also think I learned a lot by being honest about my work!” -Zarya
I feel so thankful to be able to give joy to others. Winston Churchill was right when he said this brings life to life! Do you agree?
This lovely lady came for a play date at my studio todayfor a one day art retreat with a really good friend. She had a terrible experience with an art teacher over 40 years ago, who told her that she was a d-student.
She hadn’t painted again since:(
It was wonderful to see her creativity flourish, dare I say, with a teacher who loves to encourage, not disparage. Never let someone’s criticism squash your dreams
Then, to our mutual joy, she and her husband purchased I Bought You Flowers to take home to the UK —a symbol of the fun and freedom they want to embrace in the following years. (the painting is in the background! We didn’t know then that it would be going home with them.)
I was overjoyed to see that I Bought You Flowers arrived safely in her new home in the UK. And then stunned to see how absolutely gorgeous the property is.
Wow, this is like something out of a movie….my large, abstract, botanical, inspired by some flowers my partner brought me locally, has gone off to her new home in the United Kingdom. A massive Georgian house, for their giant office space, soon to be “play room” which is being renovated around the energy of this painting to embolden the new directions in life they now wish to go.
It makes me so happy to know that my paintings create such joy, and act like magic portals, magically transporting them to places and feelings that people wish to manifest.
My commission calendar is now open if you would like to discuss creating a bespoke painting for your home
Intuitive Art: “I Bought You Flowers.” The Story Behind The Painting
Well, this is fun. For many moons I have wanted to write a historical romance—and began to do so. Finally, a few days out from Lovers Day (Valentine’s Day), I published the prequel to my first Regency romance, 5 Nights With The Duke...with a new pen name, Eloisa George.
Here is the blurb
Love Is A Dangerous Art: A later-in-life, fake engagement romance
Henry Lawrence, the notorious Duke of Bedford, must wed quickly and nobly—and his choices, alas, are few. Newly arrived governess Harriet Hartwell is exquisitely beautiful and fiercely intelligent.
Bedford determines to betroth himself to Harri without further ado. As to her lost title and fortune, the fake engagement need only endure 5 nights under his father’s scrutiny. But 5 nights with the Duke is the last thing fiercely independent aspiring artist Harri wants.
Fun fact…
My patriarchal lineage links to the English aristocracy and, in particular, the Duke of Bedford! My great-grandfather’s name was Henry Russell. I still have the family coat of arms rescued from a fire that destroyed my father’s home.
Another fun fact: Princess Diana was related to Diana Cartland and read romance novels and dreamed of marrying a prince.
I began the year by publishing the second book in the Sheikh’s Untamed Brides series:
Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
★★★★★ “I loved Stolen By The Sheikh! The depth of emotions touched my heart!”
Award-winning author Mollie Mathews returns with another heartfelt exploration of the power of love and second chances. Perfect for fans of love stories by Danielle Steel, Sarah Morgan, and Jojo Moyes
Fiercely independent contemporary artist Lucy Ford was absolutely content with her life—until the day maverick Sheikh Anwar na Hassir strolled into her gallery and back into her life. Anwar could not, would not, must not ever know the truth. Not if she was to keep her child.
Luring Lucy to his desert Kingdom, somewhere between the magic of the desert and the stroll along the ocean, she lets him steal her heart. Only to discover that love, once given, can never be returned.
If you love second-chance romance after heartbreak books, you’ll love this exotic second-chance romance.
This is a standalone, clean, and wholesome romance novel. It contains a guaranteed HEA and a tale of romance that will capture your heart.
INCLUDES 3 BONUS CHAPTERS
Claimed By The Sheikh
• Enemies to lovers
• Secret babies
• Opposites attract
• Wrong sides of the track
You’ll love Stolen By The Sheikh
Order this book through the links below…
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CR8LGF73
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/StolenByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES
https://books2read.com/u/mg5dP0
KOBO:
https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/stolen-by-the-sheikh-3
In March 2024, I facilitated a writing and storytelling retreat. It was magical to watch and hear participants’ dreams pour from their hearts and minds onto the page and become reality.
There was so much magic! Jaime wrote the first chapter of the wartime novel she has had in her head for 20+ years. Heather, in her late 60s, wrote four stories and, with Jaime’s help, created and published her first blog. I loved that Heather has called her blog, ‘Heather’s Passions” and that the dream she held to one day publish her writing is now a reality. All started in the portal of my studio…And this is just the beginning.
It was magic—and so joy-rich! I loved reading the following social media Jaime shared with her friends
“Many of you know that I wanted to be a writer when I was little, and as a teen. I’d type for hours on my electric typewriter.
But my dreams got stymied as an 18 year old and I stopped writing creatively and a little bit of me broke that day. I struggled to write creatively again.
I’ve also had a novel in my head the past 22 years but have never written anything more than the main characters names, even though they’re alive in my head. I’ve not had the confidence to ever start.
A couple of months ago my good friend Nicola sent me a post about a writers retreat with @the_joyful_artiste. Well before i could rescind, I booked and paid and committed.
Last weekend rolled around with fatigue and trepidation but I had committed so I went north for the weekend. Despite my body rallying against me.
And it was transformative.
And I wrote. And wrote. And wrote some more. Little short stories.
Then at the end of Day 1. I started Chapter 1 of “THE BIG NOVEL”. After 22 years it was there.
Then day 2 I had 6 pages written and the characters started coming to life.
I had the privelige of spending two glorious days with Cass and Heather – two phenomenal women. We were transported into a portal of creativity, love, silliness, sassiness and strength.
And I couldn’t be more thankful that the writing spirits dragged my ass up north.”
During Easter, I typed ‘The End’ on BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH, the third book in the Sheikhs Untamed Brides series, and sent it out to my fab team of Beta readers. BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH releases May 30 and is available for pre-order now. You’ll find all the links and a fun video on my website>>
I do love variety. Working on different books, short and long, modern and historical, children’s and adults, fiction and nonfiction, and a host of other things keep me interested. I’m a discovery writer, and I love to write about the themes, people, places, and subjects that interest me—like lipstick and chocolate!
I’m in the early stages of writing Beautiful and For The Love of Chocolate and a variety of other novels. Join my newsletter subscribers to stay in the know. Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/cigEsH
Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
I’m thrilled with my reviews.
Purchase direct from me and save: https://www.molliemathews.com/love-in-montana/
Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHQSZQTG
CA:https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DHQSZQTG
UK:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DHQSZQTG
AU:https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DHQSZQTG
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/3JGv9K
It was lovely to see my health and wellbeing book at #1 on Amazon.
In The Happy, Healthy Artist I share dozens of insights based on survey research, my professional achievements, and the success secrets of extraordinary artists, authors, and creative entrepreneurs like Tim Ferriss, Coco Chanel, Leonardo da Vinci, James Patterson, Paulo Coelho, Nora Roberts, Arianna Huffington, Oprah, Isabel Allende, Zaha Hadid, Georiga O’Keeffe, and many more. These successful authors and artists know the ultimate success secret—your health is your wealth and the gateway to prosperous productivity.
“Good book for everyone, not just artists.” ~ 5-Star Review
You’ll find the AMAZON links on my website
Toward the end of April I created, Jungle Book a new artistic creation inspired by the lush greenery of The Artist’s Garden and the boundless joy of honey bees living in harmony with nature, bathed in love and light.
I also released a collection of short love stories.
Everyone deals with loss, whether it’s the death of parents, bereavement, retrenchment, a fracture in a relationship, a wayward child, a financial loss, betrayal, or something more tragic. There are no exceptions: everyone will live in those shadows. Award-winning author and artist Mollie Mathews provides a collection of love stories, capturing her way of embracing the shadow and living in light.
The stories in the What is Soft is Strong: Bittersweet Short Love Stories collection include:
48-year-old Nicky Pelli’s mother hates her, and she’s only just figured it out. When Nicky receives a text a week before Christmas disowning her, she vows she’ll never do Christmas or sacrifice her needs again. Read more and purchase here:
It was a thrill to see my New Zealand-themed box set of love stories reach #4 on Amazon in May.
Here’s the blurb with purchase links following. These are two of my favourite love stories. If you’ve read and enjoyed my other books, you’ll see that art therapist Issy Riley is a regular character and healing power in many of my love stories
Gemstone Billionaires Series Box Set: Two Sexy New Zealand Romances: Italian Billionaire Brides: The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage, The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride
★★★★★ “I really love the two novels in this box set. An absolute delight to read.
AWARD-WINNING author Mollie Mathews’ returns with another heartfelt exploration of the power of love and finding love later in life. Perfect for fans of love stories by Danielle Steel and Sarah Morgan. If you adore beautifully written stories and true, heartwarming romances that sparkle with humour, you’ll love travelling along the road to love with these changing and evolving men and women as they open their hearts again and find true love.
The first two Gemstone Billionaire books (over 500 pages) included in this bundle are:
What if the person who is so, so, so wrong for you is really so, so, so right, but you’re too afraid to give love a chance?
Last Christmas, art therapist Issy Riley was jilted by her fiancé. This Christmas, she’s running away. A week with a client on his private Fijian island promises to save her from cheating men and the London festive season. But when the client turns out to be a gorgeous and magnetic Italian billionaire, he threatens her resolve to never again trust her heart to the wrong man.
Milan fashion house leader and avowed bachelor Massimiliano Balforni has no intention of taking a vacation, despite his sister’s insistence that he subject himself to an art therapy retreat following a minor heart attack. With an important collection due, he intends to fire his therapist and work instead. But the determined and striking Issy gives his heart palpitations of a far more dangerous kind.
The one thing Max and Issy agree on: they are as wrong for each other as wrong gets. He’s a workaholic playboy who believes emotion is a weakness. She’s a romantic who yearns for a happily ever after.
As the tropical heat soars, they discover that in this battle between work and play, resistance only fuels attraction—and sometimes two wrongs make a very passionate right.
Set in two beautiful paradises—Milano, Italy and the tropical Pacific islands of Fiji.
What if everything you believed was a lie?
When a lonely young American woman inherits a painting she discovers her whole life was a lie. Desperate for the truth, she goes in search of her true identity.
The painting is her only clue. But everyone is determined to keep its secret past repressed, including Vitaliano Rossi, the Italian gold tycoon, unnaturally suspicious of her motives, who wants the painting vanquished. How can she discover who she really is and convince him that his love means more to her than gold?
Three women. Three lives. And the lies that bind them. Why is everyone afraid of the truth?
Praise for The Gemstone Billionaires series!
“What a blinking good read—more please. I was hooked from page one.”
“Mollie is just such a good writer with enormous appeal in her story – an excellent read on a rainy day.”
“An enthralling read. Keeps me captivated from start to finish and leaves me wanting more.”
Escape into romance with this beautiful box set. The Gemstone Billionaires Box Set is a fun read with healthy doses of escapism
EXCLUSIVE TO AMAZON
AMAZON
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X17G5PR
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06X17G5PR
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06X17G5PR
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B06X17G5PR
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/2BillionairesBoxSet
https://www.molliemathews.com/gemstone-billionaires-2book-boxset
I’ve been leaning into mindfulness in June, which is winter here in New Zealand. And, along with painting my second collection of Joyous Wee Gems one of my joyful obsessions has been photographing flowers and butterflies.
Many moons ago, I came across a book about mindful photography… I’ve been thinking about my obsession with photography… yesterday for example, after heavy rain, 
I blissed out capturing the beauty of these darlings in my garden.
I went in search of the book and stumbled across this group in the UK
https://mindfulphotography.org.uk
On their website, they share:
Mindful Photography, sometimes known as contemplative photography, allows you to take some time out and nurture awareness of yourself and your surroundings.
In a world with its throttle stuck on full speed, there’s something magically rebellious about going slow and immersing yourself in the beauty of flowers.
Just being in proximity of plants or a beautiful bunch of flowers has been shown to reduce stress, speed healing, enhance concentration, and improve mood.
Mindful Photography, sometimes known as contemplative photography, allows you to take some time out and nurture awareness of yourself and your surroundings.
In a world with its throttle stuck on full speed, there’s something magically rebellious about going slow and immersing yourself in the beauty of a bloom.
Just being in proximity of plants or a beautiful bunch of flowers has been shown to reduce stress, speed healing, enhance concentration, and improve mood.
I was reminded today that in December 2013, I purchased a web domain, www.mindspaphotography.com, also inspired by a term I invented: phototherapy—a short therapy to develop mindfulness and capture moments of beauty. I didn’t expand the idea formally, but I have kept photography as a happy hobby.
The feedback I received from a lady saying my photos were like mind therapy inspired me to get the domain mindtherapyphotography.com. Again, I realized it wasn’t an idea I wanted to progress formally. I now share my photos on social media posts in the hope they spark joy, and also have albums in Flickr (needing updating!) https://www.flickr.com/photos/112083323@N04/albums/
Many of my floral photos and memories inspire my floral paintings, which bring moments of magic and mindfulness to people’s lives worldwide.
Next time you feel overwhelmed or need a mental and emotional boost, consider savoring the beauty of a flower. Your photos don’t need to be in focus, and you don’t need to share them with the world; simply cherish the fleeting beauty and long-term health benefits flowers bring.
I love these fading beauties, captured in the morning sunlight in a bath of extremely cold water after floating under the stars. There’s something hypnotically uplifting about their fragility and noble dignity as they flow with the impermanence of life.
PHOTOGRAPHING BUTTERFLIES
June was an auspicious time in the garden. We discovered caterpillars on the endangered Monarch butterfly and set about creating a sanctuary. I write about this joyful passion and new obsession on my blog
Welcome to our world! Laurie and Cassie are delighted to welcome their baby girl, Matariki Moana… another successful rescue in their butterfly sanctuary. Born under, and named after the auspicious star cluster Matariki
Matariki is the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster, which is also known as the Seven Sisters. It is a significant event in the Māori calendar and marks the start of the Māori New Year. Matariki usually occurs in late May or early June, when the star cluster becomes visible in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and the coming together of family and community. Matariki is associated with new beginnings, renewal, and the spiritual connection between people and the natural world. It is a time to acknowledge and honor ancestors, as well as to plan for the future.
NEW PAINTINGS INSPIRED BY BUTTERFLIES
These beauties make my heart so glad. Just gazing upon them provides an instant refuge from the chaos of the world.
“Kiss of Love” and “So Much Love Inside of You” Cassandra Gaisford, 2024
My love for nature, butterflies color, and the tradition of ink-wash painting, instilled in me by the great zen Buddhist artist Max Gimblett, has been a profound source of inspiration. Max also introduced me to the enigmatic Qi (breath), a vital force that holds deep spiritual significance, which I’ve endeavored to capture in my new series of living canvases. You may enjoy this post where I share how Max Gimblett has inspired me:
Gentle Soul and Soft Soul, Cassandra Gaisford, 2024
Like A Song of Love and Come to Bed, Cassandra Gaisford, 2024
Budh, Cassandra Gaisford, 2024
inspired by the official state butterfly of Kerela, India, named Paillio budha, which my partner showed me on the winter solstice
Named for this and the nickname my boss and colleagues gave me when I worked for a global recruitment firm, Budh.
I was in my 20s, single parenting, working full time and going to Buddhist meditation retreats and classes, learning ways to lean into joy
In this video, I share the unsolicited response of a new collector who purchased one of my paintings from my first Joyous Wee Gems collection. When you create with joy, you give joy to others. This is why all my creations are embodied with love. They speak to my soul’s mission to make the world happier through colorful art & creative play.
It’s official! I’ve created my very first lipstick Kiss of Love
I am beyond overjoyed. It feels beautiful, so creamy and soft and it has all my favorite colors. You know why …because I hand mixed it myself in the studio and applied it with an artist paintbrush.
Remember, my friend, happy hobbies needn’t be time-consuming nor expensive and can bring so much joy.
I share more about this in How to Find Your Passion and Purpose
Growing up, I was always an overthinker and perfectionist. Later, after I went to design school to study interior architecture, I was encouraged to change things up and create from my heart. which is how and why I learned to paint fast and intuitively.
FOR THE LOVE OF BUTTERFLIES: NZ GEOGRAPHIC
It was so sweet of our dear friend John McArthur to include Laurie in the NZ Geographic article published in July. Both men bonded over their love of butterflies. It’s a great read and also reaffirms Laurie’s metamorphosis to butterfly conservationist. Hence, our ongoing efforts to provide a sanctuary to our native butterflies. We are currently working to reestablish our native butterflies in Northland, which have suffered as a result of introduced and unwanted wasp species.
ENJOY THE NZ GEOGRAPHIC ARTICLE HERE:
“If you want happiness for an hour—take a nap. If you want happiness for a day—go walking. If you want happiness for a lifetime—help someone else.” ~ Chinese Proverb
Recently I was surprised and delighted to discover an email from a lady in Melbourne who had been guided to my work when she Goggled, “How to leave a job you hate.”
Her email to me, edited and shared with Diana’s permission, is below. As you’ll discover, following your passion and finding your joy is where the magic happens. So many people don’t know where to look or how to find that sweet spot. As Diana shares, moments of quiet contemplation via journalling, and listening to the observations of others, can and will enrich your life, guiding you to your passion and purpose.
As you’ll recall my theme this year is Joy Rich. As I shared with Diana in my reply, receiving her email and also her reflection of where she saw my gifts, added immeasurably to my treasure chest. Growing up I never heard a complement, was never encouraged, was activively dissauded from following my path with heart. Perhaps you too, can relate to this. Take heart and be encouraged—as Isabel Allende shared, “Without my disfunctional childhood what would I write about?” I feel the same way—about my art, my writing, and who I am. Rubbing up against who I am not, has deepened my conviction and mission.
Diana’s email
“I thought I’d reach out to you as we have a lot in common. I’m an artist too, and interested in transforming humanity through joy.
I found you by typing in “how to leave a job you hate” and your book came up. I love your focus on passion, and 100% agree that it’s the best motivation for action.
I did your Passion Workbook, then started my own Joy Journal. I wrote down every instance of joy, no matter how small or strange. Over time, I realised that beauty is very important to me — much more than I realised — and this ultimately returned me to my visual art practice.
Many people consider art my calling and obviously so. I had my first solo exhibition in 2013, which was very well received and attended. But after a while, I stopped enjoying it. It felt like a chore, so I set it aside and did other things.
Recently, my Joy Journal showed me a way to do visual art that makes it enjoyable again: working without external references. It’s so liberating to no longer be chained to anything outside of myself! This is probably why art became a chore: I wasn’t listening to myself, or trusting myself that I could work without them.
When I posted the new work, a long-time follower said: “Your work always makes me feel. Thank you.” This blew me away; I was shocked that something I did could affect a person like this. It made me realise that my work is important to do, not just for myself, but for other people too.
In your Passion Workbook there’s a question about what other people think you’re good at. I never thought this was so important in the calculus, but given my follower’s comment, the penny finally dropped.
My current job I “hate” is in dental. It was something I picked up to pay the bills after studying philosophy but declining academia. It stuck. It’s a simple job but now I’m messing up because I’m so bored, which compounds the shame and frustration.
You’re an artist too, also working in a very intuitive way, and in Reiki too! I’m so happy you’re across all of these things. In my experience, such multifacetedness is rare.
AUDIBLE
Art For Good
I am filled with gratitude for every one of you who chooses to bring my art into your lives. Each painting you purchase goes beyond just filling a space on your wall – it becomes a symbol of hope, healing, and positive change within our community. Through your support, we’re able to give back to causes that truly make a difference.
With your help, we’re supporting Hospice New Zealand, dedicated to providing comfort and dignity in times of need, and Women’s Refuge, a safe haven for women and children overcoming hardship and violence. Additionally, for each painting purchased, I plant a native tree on our property, nurturing a haven for kiwi, bees, and native birds. Every brushstroke and every tree planted grows our shared commitment to compassion, community, and the environment.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being part of this journey. Because of you, my art does so much more than tell a story; it becomes a beacon of love, support, and hope for people, our wildlife, and our planet.
p.s. I have just planted a Metrosideros Maori Princess, commonly known as Pohutukawa, a stunning New Zealand native. This striking tree is revered for its vibrant display of deep red, feathery flowers that bloom around Christmas, earning it the title of New Zealand’s Christmas tree.
I’ve called her McPrincess in honor of the McDowell Family, and the recent purchase two paintings, Love Is The Answer and Happy and Excited For Everything
Anything is possible…in the name of the title and life—I was thrilled to wake up one morning and discover this painting and one of my works on paper had sold online. I’m looking forward to meeting my new collector when she comes to the gallery to collect her gorgeous paintings.
Liz Russell from Northern Dance Academy has confirmed that her production involving local musicians, dancers, and gymnasts Enliven is going ahead! Mega exciting!
I’ve been invited to provide visual art to accompany several of the dance performances. I am thrilled.
Liz sent me some beautiful music for one of the ballets called Pavane and asked me if I could imagine a piece to it.
The music was so beautiful, and passionate that I immediately thought of Butterfly Lovers. The painting was inspired by the endangered monarch caterpillars we had been rescuing, raising, and releasing as butterflies over winter.
I love this moving piece.
This bright, happy transformational painting is available
48 inch x 48 inch
1210 mm x 1210 mm x 35mm
Acrylic, oil, crayon on canvas
To view/purchase online
https://shop.thejoyfulartist.co.nz/product/butterfly-lovers/
I can’t wait to see the digital version enlarged for the performance.—4th and 5th December. More details soon
Step into a world of imagination and grandeur as this piece comes to life, inspired by the ethereal frescoes of the Palace of Versailles. Each brushstroke carries the elegance of French opulence blended with the whimsical magic of a dream circus.
This evolving artwork captures the delicate dance between light and shadow, drawing on pastel hues to create a soft, celestial atmosphere. It’s more than a painting—it’s a story unfolding, rich with movement, wonder, and inspiration.
Follow along as this masterpiece continues to bloom. Your own personal slice of Versailles-inspired magic is on its way!
I’m diving headfirst into a world of Joy, Beauty, LOVE, and pure FUN!!! Introducing my latest painting, “Dream Circus,” crafted with love to accompany some amazing local artists in their dance and musical performances next week at the Turner Centre (4,5 Dec… check out the Enliven Facebook page or visit
https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/dec/enliven?view=info)
This vibrant piece will be supersized onto a massive screen, creating a spectacular backdrop that’s sure to ignite passion and creativity!
And guess what? This joyful artwork will be available for sale! I can’t wait to share this colorful journey with you all! Let’s celebrate art and community together!
After weeks of working on the floor in my studio, layering glazes of oil with care and love, it’s finally time to see how Sweet Wee Thing shines on the wall! Watching her come to life has been such a joyful process, and now we’re at the exciting stage where she starts to tell her own story.
Once the stretcher bars arrive, she’ll settle into her final frame—then it’s all about listening. Will she whisper, “I’m perfect as I am,” or nudge me to add a playful splash of color here or there?
Either way, this creative journey is full of wonder, surprises, and a touch of magic
What a wonderful way to end the year. My new website for Mollie Mathews (the pen name I use when writing and publishing my love stories went live on the 12/12 portal of Dec 12. ! To celebrate, I have a fantastic book bundle for you exclusively available from my book store.
Get Cozy with these heartwarming stories perfect for your holiday reading.
With inviting backdrops including Italy and Fiji to set the scene and passionate leading characters, it makes the perfect holiday reading.
Grab a bargain today!! A MEGA BUNDLE of 9 beautiful romances! Love, laughter, and happy endings await!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Loved this book! These riveting romances will sweep you away.”
BOOKS INCLUDED IN THE BUNDLE:
Now available in my store!
Support Indie Authors and Reap the Rewards!
In a world where creativity and connection thrive, an exciting shift is happening! Myself, along with a growing number of independent authors, are now offering our books directly to you—our cherished readers and listeners. This empowering movement in the indie author community isn’t just about bypassing the big multinational corporations; it’s about creating a more personal, meaningful connection with you.
Here’s why this matters to you:
Exclusive Access and Exceptional Value: When you buy directly from indie authors, you often gain access to exclusive content, personalized bonuses, or even signed editions—things you won’t find anywhere else.
More of Your Money Goes to Creators: By purchasing directly, you’re ensuring that the majority of the proceeds from each sale goes straight to the author, fueling their creativity and helping them bring more stories into the world.
Simple and Seamless Delivery: Ebooks are easily downloaded to your preferred device or e-reader. No hassle, just joy!
Support What You Love: By supporting indie authors, you’re championing originality, passion, and diverse voices. You’re helping ensure that unique, heartfelt stories continue to find their way into the world.
Let’s celebrate the art of storytelling together! By choosing to shop directly, you’re making a difference—and enjoying a richer reading experience along the way.
Thank you for supporting indie authors—you’re the reason we do what we do!
BUY FROM MOLLIE >>
I’m so thrilled with the new design. I hope you love it. You can view books by series, books in KU, and more.
“Life happens. In the garden it isn’t so sad,” ~ Vincent van Gogh.
DIRECT FROM CASSIE l AMAZON l APPLE l KOBO l BARNES & NOBLE
HARDCOVER: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1991054297
Step into a Kaleidoscope of Color and Emotion in The Painter’s Garden: Life Lessons from Vincent van Gogh, Flowers, Art, and Nature.
In this enchanting collection of reflections and art, follow a painter’s journey as each flower tells its own story of resilience, beauty, and the power of nature to inspire. From the bold defiance of sunflowers to the quiet strength of chrysanthemums, every chapter reveals lessons on life, love, and creativity through the lens of blooms both wild and cultivated.
Discover the joy of tulips in a field that seems endless, the quiet grace of forget-me-nots and their tender whispers of memory, and the luminous honesty of lunaria. As the artist’s brush captures each flower’s unique essence, their timeless truths unfold: the courage to bloom boldly, the beauty of vulnerability, and the power of connection.
Perfect for lovers of art, gardening, and inspiration, The Painter’s Garden is more than a celebration of flowers—it’s a meditation on life’s fleeting yet enduring beauty, reminding us to embrace every season and bloom where we are planted.
For fans of Victoria Finlay and Hannah Richell, this beautifully written book will leave you inspired, uplifted, and longing to wander through your own painter’s garden.
A story of flowers, art, and the life lessons that blossom between the petals.
Vincent van Gogh once said, “I have such joy in my work…”
The Painter’s Garden brings that joy to life, weaving reflections on art, flowers, and resilience into an uplifting journey.
And I have joy, too, after receiving this lovely review, I published a beautiful hardcover copy.
it is so beautiful
“WOW! I want this in hardcopy, it is so beautiful. It is gorgeous, I love the way the author has entered Van Gogh’s mind (so to speak), and given life to his thoughts on color, movement, emotion, and life in general. There is such joy and wonder as he paints, and at times a whiff of sadness and even feelings of isolation, but the joy of his paintings are an emotional celebration of his love for his art.”
Order now and let your spirit bloom!
EBOOK: DIRECT FROM CASSIE l AMAZON l APPLE l KOBO l BARNES & NOBLE
HARDCOVER: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1991054297
Just before Christmas, our water pump died. When you live rurally, this is a major. No pump means no way to get water to the house. Luckily, our neighbor’s son is a plumber and installed another.
But then, just after Boxing Day, it stopped working. We thought it had a fault. This time, we couldn’t get hold of our plumber. We spent the hottest day of the year, 30 degrees in the shade, with no water. When our plumber surfaced, to our horror, we found that both our water tanks were dry! No water!
Thank goodness for Christmas deliveries, we thought, as 13,000 liters came to our home. Great, we have water, we thought…
But then… The water started pouring out of the hairline fractures in the tanks! And now, the whole town has gone fishing—or at least on holiday.
So, it will be two weeks or more before it is repaired. SH*T! Luckily one of my superpowers is making Joy From SH*T.
We doubled down on meals out! And our plumber found a way to conserve water. And now, I realize more deeply how the simplest things, like water, are absolute gold.
I have more empathy for the millions of people around the globe who have zero to little water, and I love rain even more!
Sh*t Happens Shitty things to happen to good people. It’s a fact. Cyclones destroy towns, fires rage through homes, people assault kindhearted partners, and world wars continue unabated. Eventually, fate deals us all a cruel hand. Every day, just like a bowel motion, shit happens.
Showing up for joy is an act of rebellion—the perfect feel-great act of defiance in a world drunk on fear and misery.
Discover the spiritual superpower of making joy from sh*t and learn how to find joy in disappointments, setbacks, and trauma in my empowering book, Make Joy From Sh*t (Prequel): A Counterintuitive Approach to Living Your Best Life
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCLRVJDJ
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DCLRVJDJ
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DCLRVJDJ
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DCLRVJDJ
As 2025 approaches, I find myself drawn to the idea of setting a theme—a guiding intention to manifest my dreams for the year ahead. This year, I’m inspired by Euphoria, one of my most cherished paintings. Its Rococo-inspired palette, whimsical charm, and calming energy offer a daily reminder to slow down, seek beauty, and embrace life’s pleasures.
When I look at Euphoria, I’m transported to a world where joy and elegance blend seamlessly. It transforms any space into an oasis, whether it’s my living room, bedroom, or creative workspace. This painting isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a statement of purpose—a call to create a life filled with moments that spark wonder and ignite inspiration.
For 2025, my theme is Euphoria. I want to live with that same sense of joy and timeless beauty, to turn everyday experiences into opportunities for connection, peace, and creativity. I hope you’ll join me in setting your own theme for the year. What would inspire you to dream bigger, love deeper, and create a life you adore?
Theme 2025 with one of my paintings. Create a giant affirmation of your intention.
Euphoria… a new ode to joy
48 inch x 48 inch
1210 mm x 1210 mm x 35mm
oil, crayon, French pastel, acrylic and graphite on canvas
https://shop.thejoyfulartist.co.nz/product/euphoria/
“Cassandra is the Queen of Uplifting Inspiration.”
As 2024 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this incredible year. Your support, encouragement, and connection have made every step of this journey more meaningful and inspiring. Whether it was through your kind words, thoughtful messages, or simply by following along, you’ve been a source of joy and motivation.
As we step into 2025, I wish you a year filled with love, laughter, and boundless possibilities. May it bring you moments of beauty, creativity, and the courage to chase your dreams. Here’s to a joyous new year and all the magic it holds. Thank you for being here—I’m so grateful for you!
2023 in review—fun, fab and fearless
2022 in review—fear can drive you
GOODBYE 2021 AND HELLO 2022—5 HABITS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE
I LOOK BACK AND IT SEEMS SURREAL—2021 IN REVIEW
I LOOK BACK AND IT SEEMS LIKE MAGIC—2020 IN REVIEW
Posted in: Blog
ABOUT CASSANDRA
I am an artist, storyteller, intuitive guide, mentor and Reiki master. All my creations are infused with positive energy , inspiration, and light. I believe in magic and the power of beauty, joy, love, purpose, and creativity to transform your life. My greatest joy is helping your realize your dreams. That makes my soul sing!
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P: +64 (0) 21 873 833
E: hello@thejoyfulartist.co.nz
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