Pivoting with Purpose: A Personal Update — Kim McDonald

Pivoting with Purpose: A Personal Update

I just got back from California after a deeply healing week at OHI—and I’m feeling better than I have in a while.

I wanted to take a moment to check in with you, to share a bit of what’s been going on behind the scenes, and to let you in on some big changes that are ahead.

While I was away, I had a conversation with my neurologist that’s still sitting heavy on my heart. As some of you know, my journey with Parkinson’s has primarily affected the left side of my body, but my right hand—my painting hand—has continued to work. It’s been my lifeline, my livelihood, and my way of expressing everything I can’t always put into words.

During our conversation, we talked about the possibility that my tremors may eventually migrate to my right side. And while nothing is certain, the truth is, I’ve been thinking about what that might mean for me—and for my work.

To be honest, I’m scared. Painting is how I make my living, but more than that, it’s how I stay connected to beauty, to the ocean, to you. But I also believe in listening to the moment and pivoting with purpose.

So here’s what’s next:

I’m expanding my print collection in a big way. That means more variety, smaller editions, and more accessible options across different sizes and mediums. Whether you’ve collected my work before or are just beginning your journey with art, I want you to be able to find something that speaks to you—something meaningful for your home and heart.

And there’s more—I’m stepping into a new medium. One that’s less labor intensive, gentler on my body, and just as full of color, energy, and soul. It’s a whole new chapter in my career, and while it’s a little scary to start something unfamiliar, I’m also incredibly excited. This shift gives me a chance to explore, to grow, and to keep creating—just in a new way.

Thank you for being here, for loving this work, and for allowing me to evolve. I’ll keep sharing updates as this journey unfolds. In the meantime, the gallery is open, the prints are growing, and I’m finding new ways to tell stories with my hands—while I still can.

With aloha and so much gratitude, Kim

P.S.
I’m sharing more of this journey—moments in the studio, reflections, and behind-the-scenes glimpses—over on Instagram. If you’d like to follow along, I’d love to have you there.