Honouring Your Journey: A Fresh Take on New Year’s Resolutions

Hello there, Fellow Wanderers,

Every January, like clockwork, we embark on a tradition that’s become almost a rite of passage: setting New Year’s resolutions. The new calendar, with its clean slate and promise of fresh beginnings, whispers in our ears, encouraging us to dream big and plan even bigger. We vow to get fitter, eat healthier, be more productive, save more money, and somehow become entirely new versions of ourselves. But let’s be honest for a moment: how often do those lofty ambitions start to feel like an overwhelming to-do list before the first month is over?

We’ve all been there. By the second week of January, our enthusiasm wanes. That gym membership gathers dust, the meal prep plans fall apart, and instead of feeling inspired, we feel… disillusioned. It’s easy to beat ourselves up about it, labelling ourselves as “lacking willpower” or “unable to commit.” But what if the problem isn’t us? What if the issue lies in the pressure, we put on ourselves to overhaul everything in one go?

This year let’s do things differently. Instead of focusing on what’s lacking or where we feel we’ve failed, why not start with what we’ve already accomplished? By celebrating our wins — no matter how big or small — and using those as building blocks, we can create goals that feel meaningful, manageable, and truly reflective of the people we are becoming.

Reflect on the Wins

The past year was likely filled with moments worth celebrating, even if they didn’t feel monumental at the time. Did you try something new? Overcome a challenge? Take a step toward a goal, even if it wasn’t the finish line? Maybe you managed to carve out time for a hobby, strengthened a relationship, or simply got through a tough period. Every one of these moments is an achievement.

Take a moment to list them out. Grab your Capegypsy journal, a cozy drink, and sit in a quiet spot. Reflect on the year gone by and write down everything you’re proud of. This exercise isn’t about perfection; it’s about acknowledging your growth. By focusing on your wins, you’ll shift your mindset from self-criticism to self-appreciation.

Build on the Foundation

Once you’ve taken stock of your achievements, consider how you can build on them. Let’s say one of your wins was starting a walking routine. Maybe this year, instead of aiming to run a marathon, you commit to walking further or exploring new trails. If you’ve been experimenting with sustainable living, perhaps you add one new eco-friendly habit each month.

Goals that evolve from your accomplishments feel more achievable because they’re rooted in momentum you’ve already created. And they’re uniquely yours, rather than aspirations borrowed from societal expectations or Instagram trends.

Be Proud of Who You Are

We live in a culture that often equates worth with productivity or visible success. But true fulfilment comes from acknowledging the journey, not just the destination. You are a work in progress, and that’s something to be celebrated. Growth doesn’t always look like bold leaps; sometimes it’s the quiet resilience of showing up every day.

When you feel tempted to compare your path to others, remember this: there is no one-size-fits-all for self-improvement. Your goals should reflect your values, passions, and priorities. By being proud of who you are today, you’ll approach your aspirations with a mindset of abundance rather than lack.

Suggestions for a Meaningful 2025

If you’re not sure where to start, here are some ideas to guide you in setting intentional, sustainable goals for the year ahead:

1. Embrace Small, Daily Rituals

   Instead of making sweeping resolutions, focus on small habits that bring joy or calm to your day. For example, spend five minutes journaling in your Capegypsy wooden words journal or savour a cup of tea without distractions.

   
   

2. Prioritize Self-Care

   Dedicate time to activities that nurture your mind and body. Whether it’s a weekly soak with Capegypsy bath salts or simply going to bed earlier, self-care isn’t indulgent — it’s essential.

   
   

3. Declutter Your Space

   Create an environment that feels supportive and inspiring. Declutter a drawer, a room, or even your digital files. Start small and notice how lighter it makes you feel.

   
   

4. Practice Gratitude

   Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple habit shifts your focus to positivity and helps you find joy in the little things.

   
   

5. Learn Something New

   Choose a skill or hobby that excites you. Whether it’s baking, photography, or gardening, the act of learning can be deeply fulfilling.

   
   

6. Be Kind to the Planet

   Adopt one eco-friendly habit at a time. Switch to reusable items, support local businesses, or try your hand at making natural skincare products. Small changes add up.

   
   

7. Celebrate Your Progress

   Set milestones along the way and reward yourself when you reach them. Whether it’s a special outing or a treat, acknowledging your efforts keeps you motivated.

   
   

8. Connect with Others

   Strengthen your relationships by making time for loved ones. A heartfelt conversation or a simple note of appreciation can go a long way.

   
   

9. Say No Without Guilt

   This year, prioritize your energy and say no to commitments that don’t align with your goals or values. Boundaries are an act of self-respect.

   
   

10. Dream Big, Start Small

    It’s wonderful to have big aspirations, but break them down into actionable steps. For example, if you dream of traveling more, start by exploring nearby destinations.

    
    

The Journey Matters Most

As we step into a new year, let’s remember that resolutions aren’t about perfection or ticking boxes. They’re about growth, exploration, and honouring the unique path you’re on. By celebrating who you are and building on what you’ve already achieved, you’re setting yourself up for a year filled with purpose and possibility.

So here’s to you: the dreamer, the doer, the person who’s navigating life with courage and heart. May 2025 be a year of intentional steps, meaningful moments, and deep appreciation for the person you’re becoming. Because you are already enough, just as you are.

Take care,

Expometro Milan Exhibition Opening: A South African Perspective on Global Artistic Expression

Hello There, Fellow Wanderers,

Gwen Rankin photography on exhibition with Expometro in Milan, Italy

This Saturday, October 26th, Milan, the fashion and art capital of Italy, will host the much-anticipated opening of the Expometro exhibition, an event designed to merge creativity with innovation in a space that fosters global unity through art. As the only South African artist participating, I am thrilled to bring a touch of my homeland's beauty and ethos to this international platform, showcasing my black-and-white photographic piece, "Blushing Brides."

Expometro: A Global Stage for Artistic Exchange

Expometro has become a cornerstone for contemporary art, creating spaces where artists from all corners of the globe converge to share their unique perspectives. The initiative believes in democratizing art by breaking down the barriers between artists and the public, presenting art in highly visible, accessible urban spaces—this time, on the grand LED wall in Piazza San Carlo, in front of the iconic Basilica San Carlo in Milan. The juxtaposition of modern technology and classic architecture sets the perfect scene for art that speaks to both the past and the present.

At the heart of Expometro is the belief that art should be shared, not hidden within the confines of galleries. Their open-air exhibitions invite all who pass by to engage with the work, offering moments of pause, reflection, and connection. This philosophy resonates deeply with me, both as a photographer and as a creative entrepreneur behind Capegypsy. My work, whether it’s a photographic project or a Capegypsy collection, thrives on accessibility, sustainability, and the idea that beauty should be something that enhances daily life.

Shared Values: Gwen Rankin Photography, Capegypsy, and Expometro

Both Expometro and my brands—Gwen Rankin Photography and Capegypsy—champion inclusivity, connection to nature, and a commitment to creating art that reflects and respects the world around us. Expometro’s decision to feature a public digital platform aligns with my personal philosophy of breaking traditional boundaries in the art world. Like the open-air exhibitions of Expometro, Capegypsy products are made to be lived with—whether it's sustainable skincare or eco-conscious fashion, my designs embrace simplicity, nature, and a sense of wanderlust.

In my photography, I strive to create pieces that feel alive, offering a delicate dance between form and feeling, between the natural world and human emotion. Expometro’s commitment to diversity in artistic expression has drawn me in, giving me the opportunity to exhibit my work alongside creators from across the globe. I’m deeply honoured to be the only South African artist at this event, as this highlights how the universal language of art can transcend geographic borders, reminding us all of our shared human experience.

"Blushing Brides": A Tribute to South African Beauty

For this exhibition, I’ve chosen to showcase my piece titled "Blushing Brides," a black-and-white photograph that pays homage to the South African wildflower, Serruria florida, commonly known as the Blushing Bride. Found only in the Western Cape, this delicate flower symbolizes the elegance and resilience of nature, a fitting representation of the aesthetic I wanted to bring to Milan.

The decision to present the piece in black and white was intentional. Black-and-white photography strips away distractions, allowing the viewer to focus solely on the form, texture, and intricacy of the subject. In "Blushing Brides," the ethereal delicacy of the flower is highlighted, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate nature’s finest details. The monochromatic palette also mirrors the timelessness I aim for in my work, giving the flower a sense of being suspended in time, beyond trends or seasons.

Choosing this piece for Expometro was a way to introduce an international audience to the rare beauty of South Africa’s flora. But more than that, it felt like the right piece to highlight the connection between nature and art—a theme that’s at the core of everything I create. Just as Capegypsy embraces eco-conscious living through sustainable materials, my photography celebrates the raw beauty of nature in its most vulnerable state.

The Artists Involved: A Global Collective of Creativity

One of the most exciting aspects of Expometro is the diversity of artists it brings together. From emerging talent to established names in the contemporary art scene, the exhibition offers a rich tapestry of perspectives. The participating artists hail from various countries and creative disciplines, each contributing to a vibrant, global dialogue through their work.

The line-up includes painters, sculptors, digital artists, and photographers, all unified by their commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. Milan’s open-air exhibition format further democratizes the experience, offering a chance for passersby to engage with art in unexpected ways.

Why This Piece?

"Blushing Brides" holds a personal significance for me, not only because of its beauty but because of what it represents. The flower’s name alone conjures images of beginnings, love, and fleeting beauty—concepts that are deeply rooted in my approach to art. Much like the delicate bloom of the Serruria florida, moments in life are transient, and part of the beauty lies in their impermanence. My photography aims to capture these fleeting moments, preserving them while also allowing them to exist in a space where time is irrelevant.

I also chose this piece as a way to explore the relationship between human emotion and the natural world. The Blushing Bride, with its fragile appearance, belies a hidden strength—a resilience that is mirrored in nature’s ability to thrive even in harsh conditions. This is a theme I often explore in both my photography and my work with Capegypsy: the balance between fragility and strength, between vulnerability and endurance.

Looking Forward

The opening of Expometro marks an important moment not just for the artists involved, but for Milan as a cultural hub. It is an honour to contribute to an exhibition that so deeply aligns with my values as both a creator and as a South African. I hope that visitors who pause to view "Blushing Brides" will leave with a sense of calm and a deeper appreciation for the beauty that lies in the details, in nature, and in life itself.

As the exhibition unfolds, I am excited to see how audiences from all over the world engage with my work and how this shared experience will continue to inspire my journey as both a photographer and founder of Capegypsy.

Take care,

Gwen Rankin

ExpoMetro exhibition opening today at 16:00 in Amsterdam

Hey there, Fellow Wanderers,

Gwen RankinPhotography The Duchess Protea

This week’s blog post is an exciting one for me! From the 15 June to the 21st of June one of my favourite photographic images will be part of the Expo Metro immersive billboard exhibition in Amsterdam.

Stepping into my studio with the purpose of capturing the essence of the Western Cape for this upcoming expo, I was drawn to the idea of continuing my exploration of the region's floral beauty. As I stared out at the majestic mountains outside, memories flooded my mind, and I found myself compelled to showcase a flower that holds a special place in my heart—the Duchess Protea. This remarkable bloom, with its regal appearance, has been a constant presence in my life, from the days of living beneath the mountains to the beautiful hiking trails surrounded by these magnificent flowers. The Duchess Protea became an integral part of my personal journey, filling the vases at my wedding and embodying a profound symbolism. Opting to exhibit this flower in full colour, a departure from my usual black and white style, was a deliberate choice. The vibrant hues of the Duchess Protea are too significant to omit; they encapsulate not just the visual splendour but also the emotional depth and cherished memories associated with this beautiful bloom. Through this exhibition, I aim to share not only the visual allure of the Western Cape's flora but also the personal narrative and emotional resonance that make the Duchess Protea an iconic symbol of my connection to this breathtaking region.

Capturing the essence of the Duchess Protea through my lens was an enchanting experience that allowed me to showcase its unique beauty. The Duchess Protea, scientifically known as Protea eximia, is a striking member of the protea family, which is predominantly found in the Western Cape region of South Africa. Its name, "Duchess," aptly reflects its regal and majestic appearance, characterized by large, intricate blooms that command attention.

Originating from the fynbos biome, a diverse and ecologically significant floral kingdom found in South Africa, the Duchess Protea holds cultural and ecological importance. The country's fynbos biome, one of the world's most unique and ecologically rich floral kingdoms, showcases the plant's ability to thrive in challenging conditions, embodying the spirit of endurance that is mirrored in the nation's history. The Western Cape fynbos biome is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, and the protea species, in particular, play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of this unique ecosystem. As the national flower of South Africa, the Protea is not only a source of natural beauty but also a representation of resilience, diversity, and strength, transcending its role as a botanical specimen to become a powerful symbol deeply intertwined with the nation's identity. It has also become a cultural icon, appearing in art, literature, and even on the country's currency. The Proteas significance extends beyond aesthetics; it serves as a symbol of unity, bridging diverse landscapes and communities across South Africa. With its rich symbolism, this beautiful flower encapsulates the spirit of the nation, serving as a reminder of the beauty and strength that emerges from adversity, making it an indispensable emblem in the cultural tapestry of South Africa.

In my pursuit of showcasing the natural wonders of South Africa, photographing the Duchess Protea was a deliberate choice. The intricate details of the flower, with its tightly packed petals forming a magnificent crown, embody the resilience of South Africa's flora in the harsh and diverse landscapes. The vibrant colours and intricate structures of the Duchess Protea make it a perfect subject for my lens, allowing me to highlight the delicate balance between beauty and resilience that characterizes the flora of the Cape. To then be able to showcase this image on such a large scale internationally is an incredible experience. Im so grateful to Expo Metro for the opportunity to be part of an exhibition that showcases artists to the world through immersive experiences. This exhibition will be in the iconic Amsterdam Central Station, the largest public transfer in the Netherlands. This spot will allow approximately 500,000 visitors the opportunity to engage with artworks from around the world and interact with each artist via individual QR codes.

As a photographer from the Western Cape, my mission is to share the captivating stories of South Africa's native plants with the world, this phenomenal exhibition is the perfect platform. Through my lens, I aim to capture not only the visual beauty of the Duchess Protea but also convey the rich cultural and ecological narratives that make these flowers so significant. Each photograph becomes a testament to the intrinsic connection between nature and culture, inviting viewers to appreciate and understand the importance of preserving the natural heritage of South Africa. In showcasing the Duchess Protea, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the beauty, resilience, and intricacies of our country's floral treasures.

Follow the build up to this amazing experience and the opening, which can be viewed live on Instagram @ ExpoMetro today at 16:00.

Take care,

Gwen Rankin