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A Year in Review: 2025
I cannot fully express how this year has been. A lot has happened, and although it may seem like I slowed down a bit, don’t worry — I’m still busy, even busier than before. More pencil drawings to come.
First, I would like to say thank you to my family. I truly appreciate all the love and support you have given me, especially my wife, Paula. This year came with family struggles, and it hasn’t been easy seeing her loved one in a nursing home. Through it all, she has continued to show love and strength while we visits her father. I also thank all of my children for their love and support. Sadly, our best kitty that we ever have as part of our family for 16.5 years old had passed. He was the best cat ever! Here's a picture of "Herby" who we love so dearly, which is why he's a lovebug!
I will share some good news at the end of this story — so hold on tight!Art & Exhibitions
This year kicked off wonderfully with the Burchfield Nature Art Show in West Seneca, NY. I learned to do more than just 2D artwork and began creating 3D illustrations using techniques on canvas board. I amazed myself. I used to paint only flat surfaces, which is perfectly fine, but stepping outside my comfort zone opened new possibilities. There is nothing wrong with expanding your horizons and learning something new.
I participated the 6x6 inch painting on canvas. 4 of my paintings. They each found a home from Rochester, NY. Here's the link to read all about it. Of course, I will participate again for 2026: https://roco6x6.org/
I am always fascinated by other artists I’ve known over the years — their styles and techniques continue to inspire me. Great for networking as well.
I entered the Fine Art Contest at the New York State Fair at the Indian Village, which held special meaning for me. I thought of the honorable lady who once encouraged me not to give up art — the late Virginia Snow, who was well known in the Cattaraugus community. I remember entering the fair as a young man after high school. One of my 3D paintings placed 3rd place in 2025, and for that I am grateful. Exposure truly counts.
In August came the Erie County Fair, where I entered my artwork in the professional section of the Ag Building. I was honored to also set up displays at the Nya:weh Village, where I demonstrated my art skills and painted five paintings in one day. I was proud to sit alongside my fellow artist and longtime inspiration, Lyle Logan. He is an amazing artist who has taught many classes and continues to outreach throughout Western New York. I encourage everyone to support him and purchase his artwork.
Winning ribbons is always nice, but I’ve learned that whether you win or not, being modest and gaining exposure is what truly matters. I encourage other artists to feel the same way.
I am also grateful to continue participating in the Seneca Nation Fall Festival each year. It’s always inspiring to see so many talented vendor artists — from lacrosse makers, bead workers, pottery artists, bone carvers, basket makers, jewelers, and regalia creators. Pottery has especially made a strong return in recent years, and it’s wonderful to see so many skilled artisans.
Book Publishing Projects
This year also brought exciting book projects. I illustrated the front cover for The Cadence Mystery Series by author Dianne L. Hagan, whose books are sold on Amazon. She recently completed her 7th book, Creature of the Secret Sorrows, and is now working on her 8th book, coming in 2026. Her fictional town of Cadence, NY, keeps readers engaged with nonstop mystery and storytelling.
I am also working with author Darelyn Spruce on the second book in our collaboration. While I can’t share the title yet, I can say it’s a children’s interactive book for all ages, teaching readers how to create something hands-on. Just like our first book, I’m A Little Smoke Dancer (published in 2024), readers will hear music as they read along.
A special nya:weh to Randy John, who helped print our first book. The new book is in the works and will be released in 2026 — so hold on tight, book readers!
Career & Media Work
Professionally, I continue to be grateful for my journey in media. Over the years, I’ve worked in graphics, publishing, newspapers, print, videography, photography, filmmaking, and digital media.
I want to wish a Happy 10th Anniversary to the Seneca Media and Communications Center, where I began working in 2017. Thank you to my former colleagues and to Jason Corwin, my former boss and friend, who introduced me to the world of social media and the worldwide web.
A new chapter began when I accepted a position with the Seneca Nation Newsletter Department. Thank you to Tami Watt for welcoming me as a Graphic/Web Designer. I’ve learned so much since September 2025, and I’m excited to be part of the SN Newsletter team. More great news is coming — and I like the sound of that!
Music & Creative Media
I have also been creating music videos for Thunderbird Band, as well as country, rock, blues, and rhythm artists. You can see my work on the Bradesign Arts Facebook page — and there’s more to come!
In addition, I continue freelance work with the Indigenous Spirit Dancers, alongside Martin Jimerson, Jr., Cultural Lead Specialist. The group has since evolved into Gaeni:yo’s Singers & Dancers LLC, now an official business. I designed the logo plus do videography/photography I proudly serve as Integrated Media Director / Vice President, while Martin serves as Cultural Director and President. Expect more graphics, photography, music videos, websites, and outreach through broadcasting media. More to come!
Be sure to follow Gaeni:yo’s Singers & Dancers LLC on Facebook!
Looking Ahead!
Lastly — and as promised — the big news:
I will be a grandpa again in 2026! I couldn’t be more excited!!!
So much has developed this year, and 2025 has truly been a great one.
We'll see what this new year in 2026 will bring! Exciting things ahead!
There you have it!
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