You were made to Create

You were made to create and make. Yes, you heard me correctly.

Let me go into a well known sinario a lot of people can relate to:

You see something that really inspires you - an artist who uses a technique you are interested in, a process that looks really intriguing, maybe you’re at a craft store and want to experiment - or maybe you saw something on instagram and want to try a DIY project. It could be any one of these.

You get all the materials and try it and instantly its not as easy or fun as you thought. Then you start thinking “maybe this isn’t for me, there are so many people out there that do this, I should just stick to what I’m good at because this is embarressing”

First of all, if everyone was good at something the first time around 1) its super annoying and 2) you would never learn. Learning its about going through the process and failing! You learn how you personally navigate challenges and mistakes and make them better. Normalize failing - its healthy - and don’t give up!

I started learning the language of art through painting, and I was very stubborn about it. When I started taking drawing classes, it was painful because it was a different way of thinking and I didn’t draw well at all in the beginning. I wouldn't even let my professor see what I was working on because I was that embarrassed.

But I worked at it. I spent time learning what I was doing wrong so I could get better. I think everyone has a thread on their life tapestry where they need to make or create something. Contribute to the visual language around us. Whether you were born with a desire to create or a desire to orginize will be up to you to figure out. I know its frustrating, but all you need to do is start.

Also, cookies help.

Getting started at doing anything art - DRAW!

First, I like a good set of pencils. These are a good set of Staedtler Mars Lumograph that I find to be well worth it. Pencil graphite is a mixture of clay and graphite and good pencils have refined clay.

Second, you’re going to need good erasers. Moo Latex Free Erasers are my favorite. They are the cats pajamas. Whatever that phrase means. Whitman hates any type of clothing so theres that.

Lastly, find a guide that will have an objective. I like this modern florals book, but this 30 min lessons is also good. I think starting out with nature anything is good because it is more forgiving.