My 2025 Artist Manifesto
2025: The Year of Confident Action
After a year that started in chaos and finished with much-needed rest, I’m starting 2025 with a sense of clarity and purpose. This year, my word is Confident Action. For me, this means to decide, then start and finish—even if it’s messy or imperfect. It’s about leaning into courage and letting go of the fear that has held me back.
“Decide. Start. Finish. And if it’s a hot mess? Who cares—it’s done.”
“You’ve Got This” is always the perfect reminder for the little moments of doubt. Although the original has sold, you can still treat yourself to a print.
This manifesto feels scary to share because it’s really personal. It’s about allowing you to see the real me—beyond the colourful, uplifting art that fills your Instagram feed or walls. But I believe in authenticity, and I’m learning that I don’t have to be everything to everyone. So here it is: me, my goals, my values, my fears, and my hopes for 2025.
My Personal Goals for 2025
“This year, I’m making art for FUN—perfectionism can go sit in the corner and cry.”
I’m leaning into joy, creativity, and connection—and finding ways to build a life that reflects my values.
My ‘Fabulous Adventure’ artwork is my reminder to take a moment to walk barefoot outside and find a moment of peace in nature.
Creativity Without Fear: I want to reconnect with my creative spark and create art for fun, joy, and experimentation. I’m punching perfectionism and fear of failure in the face.
Connection and Adventure: I’m making more time for friends, laughter, and storytelling. I want to explore new places, take mini-breaks, and soak up moments of adventure.
Nature and Movement: Being in nature makes me happy, and I want more of it. This year, I want to run, cycle, swim, and maybe even learn to kayak—moving my body with gratitude for what it can do.
A Creative, Nurturing Home: Taking inspiration from Emily Hadley, I want to my house into an art gallery—a space that reflects creativity and beauty. I also want to grow veggies and add life to my garden.
Financial Growth: This is the year I build a sustainable, thriving art practice. I'm embracing smart strategies, focusing on profitability, and committing to doing one thing well before moving to the next.
I’m slowly starting to hang art around my house, and loving the thought that it’s just on loan for now, waiting to find its forever home! Explore “Bloom, Big & Bright” or “Delightfully Brilliant 2“.
Advocacy and Authenticity
“Art that looks like the world we live in? Absolutely! Everybody deserves to see themselves on the canvas.”
Art is personal, but it’s also powerful. In 2025, I’m using my art and platforms to reflect what I care about most: connection, inclusion, and shared humanity. Although it feels vulnerable to share these thoughts publicly, I believe it’s time to step into this space.
Equality and Inclusion
I want a world where everyone—regardless of gender, race, ability or background—has the same opportunities. It’s important to me that my art celebrates diversity.
One of my favourite moments from attending markets and art fairs is when women of colour tell me how much they love that their children can see people who look like them reflected in my work. This reminds me why representation matters.
Community and Indigenous Rights
Last year, the failure of the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament broke my heart. It highlighted how much work remains to listen, heal, and create a more inclusive Australia.
I believe in supporting the voices of those experiencing systemic discrimination by learning, listening, and taking thoughtful, meaningful action. While I don’t have all the answers, I’m committed to exploring how I can be an ally without taking up space that isn’t mine to occupy.
Climate Action
I’m so worried about the environment and the future we’re leaving for our children. Climate change requires immediate, collective action, and while I’m not an expert, I want to amplify the voices of those who are.
I’m doing my best and trying to be mindful of sustainability and ethical practices in my work.
Shared Humanity
Hateful, divisive politics have created so much fear and “othering.”
But I believe in the power of connection—that we can find common ground when we listen with empathy. Art should remind us of what unites us, not what divides us.
“Connection happens when we listen with empathy.”
What This Means for My Art
“Sharing my values feels scary, but I believe authenticity is worth the risk.”
I don’t have all the answers yet, and honestly, that’s part of what makes this exciting and scary. Advocacy in art feels both overwhelming and inspiring. I’m not here to tell anyone how to think or feel, but I want to explore how my values can shape my creative work. Maybe it’s through storytelling, representation, or simply starting conversations—I’m letting myself figure it out as I go.
One thing I do know is that my art will remain true to its core purpose: to bring joy, connection, and a little sparkle to your world. These values don’t compete with each other—they coexist.
Join Me on This Journey
“You don’t need all the answers to take the first step.”
If you’ve read this far, thank you. Sharing this manifesto is a big step for me, and I’d love to have you alongside me as I navigate 2025.
Here’s how you can support me and stay connected:
Join My Mailing List: This is where I’ll share updates on my art, my journey, and how I’m weaving my values into my work.
Share Your Thoughts: What are your hopes for 2025? What inspires you to take action? Let’s start a conversation either here in the comments or over on Instagram.
This year, I’m choosing authenticity, connection, and confident action. I hope this manifesto inspires you to reflect on your own goals and values, and maybe even take a small step toward them. We can create something beautiful together—one bold, imperfect step at a time.
xo Sandra Gale
Artist, Creator, and Imperfect Advocate for Joy and Change
PS I’ll be sharing a follow-up post soon with a list of the people and platforms inspiring me this year. Stay tuned!
