The Year Brigadeiro Failed Me, But Creativity Didn’t

Hey, hello there, friend!

Let me start with a confession: One Thanksgiving, I tried to make brigadeiro — my absolute favorite (and most popular) Brazilian dessert — and it completely FAILED because I accidentally bought the fit version of condensed milk.

If you’ve ever tried to make brigadeiro with fake condensed milk… you already know. It didn’t thicken, it didn’t roll, it didn’t sparkle, it didn’t do anything impressive except teach me a valuable holiday lesson:

Not everything needs to be homemade.

So this year? I’m bringing fresh fruit. Fast, safe, zero drama. A win for everyone ;)

Now… onto the studio, which is having the opposite moment of “zero drama.”It’s FULL of color, texture, brushes soaking (yes, again), and tiny palette paint layers that I’ve been collecting like artifacts from each session. Every person who walks in, collectors, neighbors, people strolling by with dogs, always says:

“Wow… you’re really in it.”

And they’re right. Studio visits have become my favorite part of this season. Now that the rain finally gave us a break, I’ve had so many people stopping by, familiar collectors, brand-new ones, neighbors I’ve never met before.

This week’s paintings surprised me, too. The yellow field of flowers came out of nowhere. The bunnies were a completely new idea. And I painted a mini version of my signature Manhattan Beach Pier, something I’d never tried before, and somehow kept all my texture and movement in a 6x6 square. That felt like a little victory.

I’m also feeling deeply grateful this year. Grateful for my art. Grateful that I get to share my vision. Grateful that beauty finds its way into people’s homes through my work. And honestly? Grateful for my new podcast , every episode feels like a little awakening, a new part of me returning home.

If you’re reading this, thank you. You have no idea how much your presence, support, and kindness matter. Painting isn’t a hobby for me, it’s my whole life. There’s no Plan B. I give everything I have to these colors, these shapes, these moments on canvas. Your support is the reason I get to do what I love.

And painting daily has changed me. I’m happier, more disciplined, more confident, and truly loving every minute of this season, even the chaotic ones.

As a small thank-you from my heart, I’m offering free shipping all weekend on all my minis. If you’re thinking about gifting art this year, or treating yourself, it’s the perfect moment.

Wishing you a warm, colorful, joy-filled Thanksgiving. From my messy, vibrant studio to your beautiful home!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Color Your Life!

Love, Drica