The week is finally here! The In-Person 2026 Winter Conference! It is such a special and exciting time, which I look forward to every year. As authors, artists and illustrators, it can be very solitary work and I always relish the times when we can be in community. As I think about last year and what I looked forward to and the goals I set for myself, I decided to browse over the blogs from last year.
So as we gear up for the eventful weekend, I wanted to reshare this amazing Closing Keynote by Sophie Blackall from last year's conference. I was blown away by this keynote and I revisit it all the time. Sophie Blackall had a quiet power, so warm and inviting, that I was captivated and her advice changed my perspective as an artist and a person. If I could go back in time and watch it all over again, I would.
Some of my favorite points were:
- Remember People's Name
- Give Voice to Your Own Astonishment
- Stand Tall
I decided to reread the blog and I'm glad I did. As I prepare to attend the In-Person Conference as the new Chief Blogger, I want to bring some of this energy into my experience this year. Meeting new people, reconnecting with old friends, staying curious, and standing tall—excellent advice to remember.
So here's the final moment of the 2025 Winter Conference to bring us into the 2026, with the excitement and joy to continuing growth and discovery in our journey as creators. See you very soon!
