Returning to the Detroit Art Scene: A Recap of My First Art Market at The Congregation Detroit (March 2026)

The Congregation Marketplace

Let me start with WOW.

It feels SO good to be back in the Detroit art scene! It had been years since I exhibited my work locally, really since before Maya was born. Yesterday, stepping back to the Detroit art scene felt so exciting and nostalgic at the same time. My recent art market experience at The Congregation felt like the perfect return to a community that continues to inspire and support my artistry.

This event gave me the opportunity to reconnect face to face with my art collectors, fellow creatives, and supporters, while at the same time, introduce Project TheraPaint to new visitors who resonate with my vision as an artist and advocate, blending art, healing, and storytelling cohesively.

The day was filled with connection, wonderful feedback, and unforgettable moments. From the incredible support of my family (helping with setup, teardown, and caring for my toddler the entire day) to the genuine conversations shared with visitors, I felt loved and supported.

As an artist balancing motherhood and a creative business, I was especially proud to have my daughter at the event with me, sharing that part of my world with her and showing her what our community is made up of.

One of the biggest highlights of the event was that The Reverie Collection sold out! This collection of watercolor meadow-inspired paintings represents God’s character and symbolize His incredibly vibrant creation: floral landscapes. Seeing each piece adored by collectors reaffirms the purpose behind my work and the emotional connection art can create.

I also showcased two new bodies of work for the first time: Rooted & Rising and The Freedom Collection. These original watercolor paintings explore themes of growth, perseverance, and transformation. There are paintings from these collections that are still available for now, so if you saw one that spoke to you, let’s add it to your space!

In addition to original artwork, my watercolor greeting cards made a debut! The flat cards offer another accessible way that art can be brought into everyday life. It was such fun watching people browse through the cards, find the one that feels just right, and smile as they think of that person they’re sending it to.

In the past, participating in art markets brought on significant anxiety for someone like me, a shy introvert. This time, anxiety turned into excitement. I am proud to have challenged myself, pushed beyond comfort that restrained me, and finally get to a point where anxiety did not overpower me. I was able to fully engage with visitors, share the stories behind my work, and build authentic connections. It’s moments like these that I will cherish. For artists navigating similar challenges, this growth is a reminder that creative confidence can be built over time.

I was too busy enjoying conversations that I didn’t capture photos with everyone who came out but I will always remember how each one of you made this day memorable, successful, and uplifting for me. The support from the Detroit community continues to remind me why I do this work.

For those interested in contemporary watercolor art, healing through creativity, and collecting meaningful original artwork, this market was just the beginning. I’m looking forward to participating in more local art events, expanding Project TheraPaint, and continuing to share art that tells the good, the bad, and the truths of life.