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. So if you want to start doing something you've been wanting to do for some time, this is me telling you to go for it. 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.