The Colours of Christmas: Reflections on the Art of the Season

Christmas is here. The rush to prepare, plan, and perfect has reached its crescendo, and now it’s time to pause. It’s the moment to breathe, to soak in the beauty of the season, and perhaps, to look at Christmas through the eyes of an artist.

As the world around us quiets (even if just for a moment), there’s something magical about observing the season as though it’s a living painting. The colours, the shapes, the fleeting moments—they tell a story all their own.

The Palette of Christmas

What are the colours of Christmas to you?

For some, it’s the reds and greens of tradition, bold and joyous. For others, it’s the shimmer of golden lights, or the soft hues of a summer sky in Australia. Look around, and you’ll see a masterpiece in the making.

Notice the way ribbons catch the light as they dangle from unwrapped gifts. See the way shadows dance on the walls from candles or fairy lights. These little details, often overlooked, make up the unique palette of your Christmas.

The Composition of the Day

If Christmas were a painting, what would the composition be? Perhaps it’s the joyous chaos of children tearing into presents, or the quiet serenity of a pet snoozing under the table. Maybe it’s the laughter that ripples across a gathering, or the way everyone seems to gravitate toward the kitchen, where the real action happens.

Every family, every home, creates its own Christmas tableau, rich with stories and movement. It’s art in its purest, most unintentional form.

The Brushstrokes of Memory

As an artist, you know the value of every stroke on the canvas. Some are bold, others delicate, but each one contributes to the whole. Christmas is much the same.

The moments you’ll cherish aren’t always the big, planned ones. They’re the small strokes: the unexpected hug from a loved one, the way someone sneaks the last slice of pudding, or the soft glow of lights as the day winds down. These are the brushstrokes of memory, and together they create the masterpiece of your holiday.

The Gift of Looking

This Christmas, let yourself see the day as an artist does. Not with a brush in hand, but with the simple gift of looking. Slow down. Observe. Appreciate.

Notice the details—the way laughter lights up a face, the way colours shift and shimmer in the evening light. Let these moments wash over you, free of the need to capture or recreate them. They are perfect just as they are.

The Masterpiece of Presence

Christmas isn’t about creating something; it’s about being present for what’s already there. The beauty of this season, like the beauty of art, lies in its ability to make us pause and feel something deeper.

As the day unfolds, let it remind you of the joy of observation, the magic of connection, and the power of simply being in the moment.

A Personal Christmas Message

To all the wonderful artists, creatives, and dreamers who’ve been part of this journey:

This Christmas, I hope you find a moment to pause and reflect on the beauty you’ve brought into the world—not just through your art, but through your kindness, your passion, and your willingness to try.

The holidays can feel overwhelming, but remember, perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. Be kind to yourself, embrace the imperfections, and let the love and laughter around you inspire your next masterpiece.

You are valued, appreciated, and capable of creating magic—not just on the canvas, but in the lives of those around you. Thank you for being part of my creative world this year.

Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones. May your days be filled with joy, inspiration, and the courage to keep splashing colours!

With love,
Penny 😊🎨✨