As I go through my website, carefully updating my projects page and sitting with the creative energy I’ve felt bubbling up lately, I stumble across some old works of mine. We’re talking circa 2018. Though I regret the disposal of my childhood binder of collective drawings, I’m not one to dwell on things lost. Finding this little hidden gem and comparing it side-by-side to some of my newer stuff was super fun and interesting.
2018, first time trying alcohol markers I bought at Hobby Lobby in the scrapbooking section… probably more -than-a-little inspired by Artemis from Sailor Moon. I actually had a lot of mixed feelings about this when it was finished. Maybe some shame in my perceived lack of skill at the time.
Cat Portrait Commission, 2024. First and most obvious commentary is that I have a much improved understanding of facial anatomy. This piece was solemn and meant to be a celebration of life, so I think the impressionistic strokes and strong likeness are a benefit. That said, WOW, are they different!
As previously mentioned, all my childhood works that I kept in a binder were tossed or lost at some point, so I have very few pieces to look back on. The 2018 drawing made me super nostalgic, and I can see how that style still shines through in my personal works. Forgive the lack of whimsical cats to compare to, but I do have this acrylic piece I’ve been working on for the past 5 years. (2020-2025)
And this illustration from my portrait study phase (2021). My goal was to improve those anatomy skills!
And so on…
The mediums are completely different, but the subjects still carry hints of my younger self… at least to my eye. I’m going to butcher this, but I heard a saying today about not liking our art because it will always look like we did it. I’ve definitely felt that before, but I’m thankful to say I don’t feel that at all today. If anything, let this be a call to action for you, dear reader, to archive the journey and keep a record to look back on later. Even if it’s just for yourself.
Cheers,
