From the time I could hold a pencil in my hand, I loved drawing. As I got older, I started learning how other artists work. I enjoy researching the lives of artists, and I have recorded all of my research into my workbook. I visited art museums and watched documentaries and interviews featuring artists who were illustrators, writers, filmmakers, animators and cartoonists. I appreciate the perspectives of each artist.

 

I also began to recognize the unique contribution that I could make. Many of my art pieces are two-dimensional, and the reason comes from me wanting to sharpen my skills.  I enjoy creating new ideas. I follow my passions and focus on my strengths. When I create artwork, I like to follow my own path. It’s important to me to create art that is original and formed by my own life experience.

 

The biggest challenge I face is when I ask myself, “Is this really as good as it can be?” In case a piece doesn’t work out, I like to have several back up ideas. Even if they don’t become a final project, I have generated some ideas that I may be able to use in the future. Another challenge that I sometimes have is wondering if the picture will turn out the way I picture it in my head. When I have an idea of how I want a project to be, and it doesn’t turn out the way I hoped, my creation might not make it to the final project phase. When my work is integrated with head, heart and hand, I become a better artist. I overcome many challenges by setting goals for myself, and deciding what should I do to improve with each new project.

 

I don’t want to limit my artwork to a singe theme.  I like to explore different ideas with each project and in this way, I continue to grow as an artist. I see the world facing many obstacles. With every new problem, there is an opportunity for artwork to make a difference. While artists can’t solve all of the problems, we can at least call attention to them. When we’re really fortunate, we can, through imagery, help solve the problems of our time. If not, we can at least sit back and have a good laugh at the mess.

 

I make frequent use of my individual sketchbook. It has been very useful to me for many years. It is a place that I use to write down my plans and sketch out my ideas. There I can experiment with avenues for implementing different types of media. It is a place to sharpen my focus skills as a cartoonist. 

 

As I move forward as an artist, I’m excited by the thought of creating artwork for a wider audience. I am now ready for the next springboard in my life and that is to use my skills in a real world context. I hope to use my artistic gifts for the greater good. It’s an incredible gift to realize that my favorite recreation as a child, that of drawing pictures, is about to become the gift I give to the world. Moving from classroom projects to a professional portfolio feels like a huge accomplishment. I am thankful to the many mentors who have brought me to where I am today. This is a gift and privilege for which I will always be thankful.