The art of pilgrimage.

scallop shell

Welcome to my travel blog

Routes travel blog is where my travels and creative practice meet. It’s part travel blog, part artist journal, and part personal pilgrimage. Each journey I take — whether into the mountains, into the jungle, or into the depths of my own process — becomes a map.

I call these works Maps because they aren’t just landscapes. They hold the emotions, symbols, plants, and experiences that shape a place for me. They’re both personal and collective — a way of reflecting on where I’ve been and where I’m heading.

Travel is more than movement for me. It’s a way of connecting with community, nature, and self. These experiences all become part of the visual language I create.

Through this blog, I want to share not only the finished work but also the process: the messy beginnings, the experiments, the “maps” that evolve as I go. You’ll find travel reflections, notes from residencies, and updates on The Art of Pilgrimage — my ongoing creative journey.

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If you’d like to follow along:

  • Check Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates.

  • Sign up to my newsletter at the bottom of page for blog posts and new Maps.

  • Or simply read along and find your own inspiration in these routes.

This is the start of something expansive, and I’m excited to share the journey with you.

Map #6 Panama City
Allie Joy Allie Joy

Map #6 Panama City

A short yet powerful reflection from my self-made residency in Panama — a country rich in contradiction and beauty. From ferns named “wing” to copper lines echoing both technology and the controversial copper mining, this journal traces the delicate connection between progress and nature. Featuring reflections from the MAC Panama exhibition, jungle walks, and the creation of my Panama Map artwork.

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Map #5 Jungle Map
Allie Joy Allie Joy

Map #5 Jungle Map

Read about Allie Joy’s art residency in the Colombian rainforest jungle! For one month Allie was immersed in nature with the single goal to create and connect - find out the amazing encounters and insights gained.

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map #4: Alpine Map
Allie Joy Allie Joy

map #4: Alpine Map

Allie Joy begins her Art Pilgrimage in the Swiss Alps — exploring community, ferns, and hope while creating Map #4 at Bündner Rigi.

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