Author Archives: byamandagrace

Maturity is a constant journey, not an eventual destination. Maturity is having learnt to ask “how have I grown through this painful season”, instead of giving in to questioning “why must I go through this”. It is understanding that it takes intentionality and courage to allow difficult situations to sharpen and shape us.

Focus

Out of a wandering mind.
Away from being idle.
Razor sharp. Not dull.
At tasks, discernment, prayers, intention.

Alert, awake, aware.
Streamlined attention on what matters.
No distractions or excuses.
Hush the noise, worries, hurdles.

Focus.

Training. Taking aim. Getting ready.
Sharpening. Strengthening.
Waiting. Concentrating.
Poised.

A shift in the eyes.
A perk in the mind.
A straightening of the back.
An awakening of heart.

An expectation for more.
Quiet, strong, deep.
Facing reality, vibrant, refreshed.
Praise upon lips.

A focused mind.
A focused spirit.
A focused heart.
A focused life.

Focus.

Don’t Wait, Start.

Don’t wait for a breakthrough to start believing,
start believing and a breakthrough will come.

Don’t wait for inspiration to start creating,
start creating and inspiration will come.

Don’t wait for success to start trying,
start trying and success will come.

Don’t wait for restoration to start forgiving,
start forgiving and restoration will come.

Don’t wait for it to get easy to start enjoying,
start enjoying and it will get easier.

What are you waiting for before you start living the way you’re meant to?

for Kallos: on Friendship

I had so much fun creating this piece as an inside-page artwork for Kallos Magazine’s issue of friendship. They wanted an artwork that featured the quote, “He is your friend who pushes you nearer to God. – Abraham Kuyper”, and the illustration was drawn based off images of the members of this magazine. Below are the final product (in blue), and a few preliminary sketches.

Handlettering of Psalm 36:5-7

A custom hand lettered piece that really blessed my heart. ♡

As I wrote the words of this verse over and over again (because mistakes were made and the artwork had to be redone from start to finish, twice), I was reminded of how meditative lettering can be, and how the Word of God is so refreshing to the soul when we take time to slow down and eat of it. Though it was slightly frustrating when I spotted the errors after completing the work, it was also a much needed pause to take and rest in His word.

Here’s a real time video of the process, from layout to testing out strokes, to just having some fun before getting the actual artwork out. Thankful for the opportunity to bring this piece of God’s Word as a birthday gift.

for Little Eco Joys: brand/packaging design

Designed these florals for @littleecojoys (LEJ) packaging and branding cards.

I’ve always loved creating floral designs, so getting the chance to work on these brought much joy to my heart. LEJ wanted a simple and pretty floral design for their branding cards, and after multiple drafts, we agreed on the above.

If you’re all about sustainability or would like to get started, this is a brand worth checking out! They’ve stocked some really amazing items that I’ve enjoyed using, and would highly recommend.