Hi friends,

As many of you know, I’ve been on a journey recently—one that has led me back to my first love: art.

I went to school for illustration and design, always finding ways to sneak in painting and printmaking classes that were outside of my major. My dream was to be a full-time artist, to have my work in magazines like Hi-Fructose and Juxtapoz. But like so many creatives, I was told to take the "practical" route, and so I pursued a career in advertising. It didn’t take long for my soft creative heart to ache. I knew deep down I wasn’t living my truth.

Then, life intervened. A 10-day silent meditation retreat in Thailand cracked me open, leading me to quit corporate design, dive into yoga teacher training, and spend years traveling to India, seeking something deeper. For nearly a decade, I poured my creative energy into yoga—studying, teaching, leading retreats and trainings, and building a community of whole-hearted practitioners. And when my father’s Parkinson’s battle reached its final chapter, yoga was my anchor, helping me stay afloat through the storm. Yoga saved my life.

But after his passing last summer, I took a long-planned trip out West, spending a month with friends and family, and giving myself the space to be with my grief. What I didn’t realize at the time was that this trip would realign me with my true creative path. Each day, I woke up and drew. I rediscovered my love for line and color, markers and colored pencils and paint—the simple joy of making. It felt like coming home.

Now, I’m standing at the start of something new. At 36, with life experience, perspective, a strong sense of values, and a deep well of inspiration, I am rebuilding my career as an artist and illustrator. I’m refining my style, experimenting with mediums, and laying the foundation for the work I am meant to create.

In my research and studies, I discovered the Bologna Book Fair—the world’s largest gathering for illustrators and publishers. It just so happens to fall on my birthday week, and I have a gut feeling this is where I need to be. It’s a chance to gather inspiration, meet publishers, showcase my work, connect with fellow artists, and immerse myself in the world of contemporary illustration.

This is where you come in. As I focus on building my portfolio, funds are tight. I shared my dream of attending the fair with a dear friend, and she suggested I create this fundraiser to see if my community—my people—would like to help me get to Bologna and take this next step. Donations will help cover my round-trip flight, hotel stay, 4-day event ticket, and—of course—a few delicious Italian meals.

If you feel called to support, whether through a donation, sharing this page, or simply sending good vibes my way, I would be endlessly grateful. Every bit helps in making this dream a reality. And if you aren’t able to donate but would still like to help, you can recommend my graphic design services to any small business owners in need of a website, logo, or hand-illustrated signage!

With love and gratitude,

Catiebelle