As I sit here on our striped sofa, soaking in the sunshine flowing through our large living window, I reflect back upon my chosen word of the year, surrender. Like many of you reading this post, my heart is filled with many hopes and dreams for this year. Dreams of being published in an art magazine, finishing the first step in my academic career, watching my very first children's book being published on paper and growing in ways I could never imagine with my illustration work.
Staying focused and on course isn't always easy to do. Life constantly tosses challenges or obstacles upon the path we walk, attempting to discourage us along the way. For some of us, teasing us with thoughts to simply quit pursuing our dreams. I want to encourage you today to keep pushing forward! Stay focused on the diamonds in the sky and let your heart guide you. When faced with moments where you want to give up - don't! I promise you, in the end, you'll be surprised at the beauty and joy greeting you face-to-face in the end.
Take a look at the process above. As I was painting this beautiful poppy illustration, I was tempted to give up multiple times. In the beginning, my vision for the finished piece was completely different than what my final results were - and that's OK! In those moments of feeling the urge to rip my work in half, I stepped away for some fresh air, returning with a renewed determination to keep painting and sketching. I'm so glad my heart surrendered to my creative spirit and not to the fears of failure. The end result is more than I could have ever hoped for and will be a significant reminder for me to never...give...up! ♥
What a beautiful and inspiring painting and post! I love your art and your words! Thank you Alexandra!
ReplyDeleteThis might be one of your best pieces ever! It's lovely. Thanks for your inspiring words.
ReplyDeleteWow... I needed to read this today! By the way I never answered a question you asked me about my process. I almost always pencil in my illustrations first. I try very hard not to trace that line when marking up with my pen. Before I apply watercolor I erase the pencil lines.
ReplyDeleteI don't really use ink very much but I noticed you use the water brushes. That might be the problem causing the ink to bleed. Try using a regular brush.;) Have a wonderful day.
I'm glad you didn't give up as the result is quite wonderful. I especially like the last two pieces, the colors are bright and makes me happy to see them.
ReplyDeletehope you have a lovely day.
Gorgeous ... simply gorgeous !!!
ReplyDeleteYou and Mr. Toast are most talented.
ReplyDeleteCheers and boogie boogie.