Recently I've been going through a round of mental gymnastics it seems. I'm an entire year out from college, working nonstop then for 4 years. Now I'm completely dependent on myself to make my own projects, have my own direction in my work, and propel myself into freelancing to help build my career as an illustrator. It's not easy, but with my teaching job I was lucky to acquire right out the door it's been alright. I found myself in a bit of a burnout from sleeping on average 3 hrs every night for 4 years straight, working on deadlines for projects where most of them I don't even want to show. I learned loads, but now I don't have a professor guiding me to where I need to go. Now I must make my own decisions on what I draw and create.
Which is completely not anything new with any artist. Ever.
Up until a month or more ago, I was feeling in a rut in where I was going though. I feel like I send out applications, cover letters, and emails x10 a week, every week, with no return. It wasn't until I stopped being so self-focused and began seeing the drive and accomplishments of my friends and peers around me that I felt compelled to keep up with them. Not out of jealousy, but inspiration. So here I am overhauling my website, my store, and my lifestyle. I want to do much more. I will continue with the emails and the inquiries etc. I feel as though I have been too timid with myself, and need to push onward much much harder.
With summer here and fruits and veg being so wonderful this time of year, I've been eating much healthier and with that I feel as though my mind has been running more fluid and awake. My favorite thing right now is throwing frozen fruits and crushed nuts into my morning oatmeal, and these salads with lemon and sunflower seeds. AND OH MAN. Trader Joe's kale pesto, guys. The best!
Also MerMay was such a great motivator to create a bunch of drawings and such. It helped gain my confidence I think. Reawakened by love for color too.
So yeah this is my first ever blog post type of thing. The site isn't even live yet as I've moved to squarespace on a temp trial. But it would have felt so strange having a section for a blog with it completely empty! haha So welcome, hello, and thank you for reading my babbles.
Best wishes
Basia