Everdraft

Yesterday, I attempted to work on this painting, but I found myself getting really frustrated. I noticed some problematic areas, but trying to fix them only made the portrait look like someone else entirely. How could this happen? It wasn’t capturing me at all. I remember an artist named Marko Djurdevic saying that on those type of days, the best thing to do is to go do something else that gets your mind off your work, so, I put down the Apple Pencil, turned off the iPad, and decided to walk away. Instead, I indulged in one of my favorite activities: watching YouTube videos and catching up on the many reels that my friends send me on the grid app, BUT not before hitting the gym because I need to get in shape. I'm putting in work on two fronts these days: the artist's mind and the artist's body.

Today, I returned to the painting with fresh eyes, and things are improving. There are still some problematic areas, but after about an hour of work, I feel like I’m back on track. Amazing that a little break can make such a difference!

I recently saw some friends of mine. They’re professional illustrators, living the dream. A dream I once had when I was young. Then…I don’t know…I kind of lost my way. I felt like I didn’t have the talent, that I didn’t belong…that I was a failure. Then I eventually gave up. But something recently sparked in me. I had a long and encouraging talk with my artist friends, and we made a bet that I would start making art and setting up at shows. If I don’t, then I owe them a lot of money. They were kidding (I think), but either way, I’m holding myself accountable to it.

I spent the weekend grabbing social handles and getting a web domain (a couple, actually!) and having those in my pocket. Then I started trying to stretch my art muscles by digitally painting a self-portrait. Maybe a bit too ambitious, but go big or go home, I say! I’m going to work on this sucker until things click.

This journal is for me to track my journey from now until whenever. It’s more personal than those social media networks and feels more focused. My millennial ass prefers this format, anyway, as opposed to something like Instagram or Twitter (sorry…“X”).

As for the point of this post, here’s what I’ve worked on today. I’m digging the direction of it. Still lots to do, but I ain’t rushing.