Painting after not painting (or how I got out of my own way).

Hello, friends. This January I made a conscious effort to get drawing again. It’s been a while since I’ve finished a project, and I felt like I’ve been too much in my head about having my drawings look technically perfect, or waiting for an inspired moment to start drawing. This time, I set myself up with the intention to "switch it up" or try something way out of my usual schedule. I also decided to conscientiously let go of the critic in my head. No excuses, but also no pressure. Easier said than done, right?

Fortunately, I had a clear idea of what I wanted. I wanted to try tapping into that feeling of drawing when I was a kid—that simple spark, that feeling of just making patterns on paper. This switch up also included getting up super early, before anyone in my household was awake. 5:30 am to be specific! A challenge for sure since I’ve been having a hard time with insomnia and anxiety (I’m sure everyone can relate right now!). So, I was strict with myself. No Phone. Get some sleep. Set an alarm. Wake up, brew some tea, and just draw.

So I did. I did this consistently for a few days. Then a week. I focused on a commissioned drawing for my sister (shout out to Yaya), who requested a painting of a tube of Aquaphor lotion (she’s a fan. If you know, you know). It took a week to complete, and now that it’s finished, I’m just beginning to find an enjoyable rhythm. I’m hoping to keep this going into February and beyond. My art-making mantra this year is ‘Apply curiosity and experimentation’. I‘m looking forward to that early morning time with a cup of tea, a pencil, and birdsong coming in from the windows. In the meantime, take care, my friends.