The moment it all changed. And it could for you, too.

It's even a sucky photo...

About 5.5 -6 years ago I picked up a pen and a sketchbook after a 10 year hiatus.

This is what I sketched. A Starbucks coffee cup.

I both hate this drawing, and love it. 

I hate it because it's embarrassing. It's a sucky drawing of a coffee cup. But I love this drawing because it signifies a rebirth. A phoenix moment.  The moment I decided to push past my fear, those voices that told me I couldn't draw because I couldn't draw photorealistic renderings. The moment I choose to get back to my art because I needed it, for my soul.

I showed up that day. And the next. And almost 6 years later, I haven't missed a day of creating art. 

This journey taught me about myself. I found my voice and style along the way. I connected my passions with my talents. I stepped into being an ARTIST, not just a graphic designer.

What is holding you back? What do you want to accomplish? It will never happen if you don't show up, and keep showing up.

Will today be YOUR phoenix moment?

Take a bold step, and leave me a comment on what you want to accomplish. That might be your first step, speaking it out loud!

What Are You Learning Lately?

It's no secret that if you want to continue to grow as an artist (or a human for that matter) you need to find ways to keep learning. Experimenting and play can only take you so far. There comes a time when you need to learn some new techniques and skills to add to your arsenal.

If you can't afford a formal class, or have no fellow artist friends you can hit up to drop some knowledge on you - don't worry there's hope. Watching video's to learn something new can be tricky. Just open Youtube & you know what I mean. You can spend way too much time just trying to locate something quality and helpful.

Well, I recently came across this site (and app) called Craftsy. At first I was a bit apprehensive, being a guy and seeing all these sewing and cooking video classes. I'm not Martha Stewart, nor do I have any desire to be. But alas, they offer a bunch in the Fine Arts category. I snagged a holiday offer of %50 off and signed up for a few classes. I've been slowly working my way through, and so far I'm pretty pleased.

So how about it? Are you learning? How have you been acquiring new skills?

If you haven't, maybe this new year is a great time to get back in gear!