This NYE we had a family of artists visit us: a couple that I worked with at BuzzFeed, and their 5 and 7-year-old. We held an art party and talked about all the projects we'd work on if we had the support and resources to do them. Then we all buckled down and worked on elements of those projects.

Since 2021, I've been toying with the idea of creating a kid's show called "Uncle Shayna's Art Party." I want to make a colorful studio set where I (Uncle Shayna) do simple art projects that kids can follow along with. I wasn't really sure where to start, so I made an animated test for the show's title. It still needs a lot of work, but I felt a somewhat accomplished when I completed this on Jan 1st.

So far, I think I want to do 3 segments that range from super-easy, then easy, then slightly more challenging. I don't want the final product to be the focus, just the enjoyment of creation. I think my goal is to come up with a pilot, then share it with my fellow creatives to see how it can be improved.

The name of the show was inspired by my two nieces, Natalie and Lexie (on my partner's side). They've always called me uncle Shayna, so I've embraced it.