Hello 2026

So I started 2026 with the launch of my YouTube channel called ‘ricksworld studio’. As they say, you have to start somewhere, and rather than overthink the channel format, content and spend hours editing, I simply made a short intro, a quick tour of my rather messy studio (a tidy-up could easily become future content) and a brief introduction to my DarkWood series. The first video runs just over 20 minutes, and for now I’ll aim to keep most uploads around 10–15 minutes unless I’m actively working on a drawing or painting that requires a longer, more detailed walkthrough.

You can find the link to the YouTube channel on the social media Icons.

The general plan is to explain and show the thought process, where the ideas come from and the challenges that present themselves as I create each new drawing or painting. I will aim to keep to a weekly schedule with a video every week; I think as long as I follow a consistent format similar to the first episode, it should be achievable.

Also, I have applied again for the Emsworth Arts Trail for 2026 — it’s the 25th anniversary, so I couldn’t really step back this year — and, as my full-time employment is coming to a natural end in February, the timing feels right. I intend to take at least a couple of months off if the opportunity presents itself; naturally, if a new contract or other opportunity appears, I will consider and accept it. My original plan had been to either retire or cut my hours in about 18 months when I turn 60, so this is slightly earlier than I had intended, but it feels like the right move now.

Anyway, 2026 will be an interesting year on both a personnel level and also fingers crossed on a professional level too.