Global Citizen's Word on Stage event at the NYU SKIRBALL CENTER.
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a private Global Citizen's event, World on Stage. It was an evening filled with a who's who of influential people coming together for world change. Former Prime Ministers, executives of big business, musicians, actors, celebrities of all sorts, and even three NASA astronauts (WHAT?!)...
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I watched the movie joy recently, starring Jennifer Lawrence. In my opinion, it's a must for anyone who has a dream they need to follow. But the thing about this movie that got me thinking, wasn't only the pursuit of a dream but how Joy was surrounded by people who continually spoke doubt and fear rejection and negativity into her life and dream. But (spoiler alert) she becomes the underdog, and lives up to her name.
We all like the underdog story don't we? The character that faces odds that are slim, enduring hardship and struggle, only to emerge victorious. We love that, except when we’re the ones called to play the role of the underdog. No one wants to endure hardship or struggle. No one wants to go through pain, missteps, failure. We just want the good stuff. Fast forward through the valley. But the truth is, there is no victory without all that pain. In fact, it is usually because of the pain that the underdog becomes a hero at all.
“...I want you to remember something, because a lot of times people get nice things and they start to think differently. We got here from hard work, patience and humility. So I want to tell you, don’t ever think that the world owes you anything, because it doesn’t. The world doesn’t owe you a thing.”
And can we talk about those voices that surround the underdog when he/she starts talking about a dream they have? It's like some people speak to them out of pity. "Poor guy, he doesn't even realize how unrealistic he is. I wonder if he knows the odds of succeeding?" "I hate to be the one, but somebody's got to remind her of reality. Dreams don't pay the bills. You've got to be responsible. Practical. Why put yourself and those you love through such unnecessary pain?"
“For me personally, there was no path. A mom and a woman way back then, to sit at a coffee table and say, ‘Yeah, I’m an inventor?’ It was like, ‘Okay. She needs to go to therapy.’”
They mean well, usually. Maybe they are victims of their own delayed or derailed dreams. Maybe that's how someone spoke to them, so they in turn continue to spew the same sentiments to those around them. Maybe they feel threatened, because change for you, means change for them.
And those are the external voices. The internal ones can be just as cruel if not more so. Because they play dirty. They know how and when to hit you.
Maybe that's another reason we love the underdog so much. Because we see how close to the edge of failure and disaster they walk. And when someone endures in that face of all those odds against them, it's inspiring.
There's no need to fear--
Underdog is here!
My Nick Clark / Frank Dillane fan art feature on AMC's Talking Dead with host Chris Hardwick. August 21, 2016.
Nick Clark / Frank Dillane - Interested in purchasing an art print? Visit my shop.
Back in September of 2015, I had the thought of creating some fan art for the new Fear The Walking Dead show on AMC. I had previously created some Walking Dead Fan Art, so I had a few ideas.
I created the illustration digitally using a combination of an iPad app called Sketchclub and Adobe Photoshop on my Macbook Pro. The show was relatively new, and it seemed to have a slow start, as far as a fan base. So my illustration sat in the background as I continued to create more art.
Months later, I saw Chris Hardwick announce that the show was looking for fan art to feature on the show. I copied down the email, ready to shoot off an inquiry, but then I heard that voice. No, not the voice of Chris Hardwick, or even a Walker, but the voice that rises up and says "Really? What makes your art so special that you think they would choose it? Or worse, what Frank Dillane sees it and hates it? Stop your dreaming. Protect yourself and don't even bother. You know what the odds are?..." and on and on it went, until I told it to shut up. Fearing the Walking Dead is one thing. Fearing failure? You won't know unless you try.
So I took a shot and emailed them. They sent back a legal form to fill out and I return it with my art. And then I waited. And waited. The first part of season 2 of Fear The Walking Dead came & went along with it's corresponding Talking Dead. Nothing.
"Oh well", I thought. "I guess they have a lot of submissions". And, honestly, I kind of forgot about it. I just kept moving forward with other projects.
Then the midseason premiere aired and the entire episode was all about Nick Clark. Following Fear The Walking Dead, I started watching Talking Dead as usual, but....
then this happened...
Now understand, I created this art from a place of authenticity. I'm a fan. I was not creating this art in an attempt to get my art on TV. Did I take steps to send it out there? Yes, absolutely. It's the formula I have been working every day - create and release. Each day, I forget about yesterday and create more art TODAY. I don't put all my eggs in one basket. That's where I think a lot of artists get stuck. They spend so much time, effort and energy on one piece, that either finishing it becomes paralyzing, or the thought of sending it out into the world just seems unbearable, because the fear of what people might think or say. But I'm of the opinion that people need to see your art. When you don't share it, you can miss out on the opportunity for your art to impact another person, even if it's just a fellow fan of a TV show.
Send your art out into the world and see where it lands. You'll never know unless you take action.
What has been preventing you from taking action today? Leave the FEAR to the Walking Dead!
I thought I'd take a few minutes to share a few tools in my sketch bag. When I'm not sketching digitally on my iPad, Here's a few tools I like to keep handy for sketching while I'm out and about. I've provided amazon affiliate links below for easy purchasing as well if you're in the market or want to try some new supplies.
A great little fountain pen that is a no mess solution and has a great feel in drawing is the Lamy Safari pen (Extra Fine Nib). It's a great option if you're looking to get something affordable yet a step up. Be sure to get the Lamy refill converter as well, so you can use the ink you desire (waterproof and your color of choice) or you'll be limited to the available non-waterproof cartridges.
LAMY Safari Fountain Pen Charcoal Ex-Fine (L17EF)
Speaking of ink, I have found the Pilot Bamboo Charcoal Black a nice smooth black ink option. It's rich yet over done. You might want to experiment with a few brands of inks, but if you intend to use with watercolor paints, you will want waterproof ink.
Pilot Iroshizuku Bottled Fountain Pen Ink, Take-Sumi, Bamboo Charcoal, Black (69224)
The TWSBI fountain pen was my first. I was attracted to it because of the ease of use yet versatility. It does require more maintenance than the Lamy, but also has a well (that you can see how much ink is left if you get the clear barrel model) as opposed to a cartridge. It's a bit tricker to use but another great option if a full on fountain pen is intimidating.
TWSBI Diamond 580 Fountain Pen nib EF or F
There are certain moments that you will want to blend ink, so using a water-soluble ink will be your ticket. You can fill one of the pens above with such an ink, or if you'd like a different option check out the Tombow. It had two sides and is a BRUSH pen as opposed the extra fine nibs on the fountain pens. One side is like a brush, the other is like a fine tip marker.
Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Markers, Black N15, 6-Pack
I live for color, so I always have my Windsor and Newton Watercolor travel kit handy. There are a ew different sizes, depending on how many pans of color you want available. I suggest starting with the one I've listed as it's a little more budget friendly as well as more compact for travel. When the pans of color run down, they are easily replaced. You can even swap out colors if the stock colors aren't your colors of choice. This set is a staple of my travel bag. I never go anywhere without it.
Winsor & Newton Cotman Water Color Compact Set
And if you intend to use watercolors, you'll need a handy option for brushes that travel well. You don't want to be fiddling with brushes and water cans while on the go, so these water brushes are a necessity. This set has 4 size options which is also nice. You just unscrew the cap and fill with tap water at home, or refill on the go. Simple.
Water Brush Pen, Self-moistening, Portable, (Assorted Tips, Set of 4)
And Lastly, there's a myriad of options for your sketchbook, and a lot of it is personal preference. I do suggest however that if you are planning to use watercolors or wet media, get a sketchbook with watercolor paper. I've used the Moleskine Watercolor sketchbook. It's taken some getting used to the size, but it captures my watercolor nicely. I've also used other Moleskine (as well as other brands) that weren't watercolor paper but with varying degrees of success. It might come down to how wet the paint is.
Moleskine Art Plus Watercolor Album, Large, Black, Hard Cover (5 x 8.25)
The point is to get out there and start sketching! Try different supplies as your budget allows. Go with friends, and swap supplies. Now get out there and sketch!
If you've been following me for any length of time, you probably know that I do Pet Portraits, Pop Culture Art, maybe even Graphic Design, but you might not be aware of another aspect of my life that is very important to me: my faith. A few months ago, I had the opportunity to do a live painting during my church's Sunday services. I did 4 paintings actually. One practice and three more, one for each service.
There's something that makes me come alive when I can get lost in music (centered around God) and paint what flows out of me. It's a response. It's part of my faith.
You may or may not consider yourself a person of faith, but perhaps you have had the sensation of being so utterly passionate while doing something that you loose track of all time. It's a place where you're not critiquing or second guessing, But a place of creation, where you unleash something from deep inside. It's not about head choices, but heart ones.
As I write this I'm putting the finishing touches on a recreation of this painting "Worship (Sensate)". I recorded a bit of the process of my painting in time lapse and posted below.
If you have any questions about this painting, my process or supplies used, just leave a comment. Also I am accepting commission on a few more recreations of this painting, so if you would like one, email me and let's talk about how we can get one in your home or church today!
One of the original paintings I did live during the worship service. It's acrylic on wood.
“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. ”
When I was a kid, all I ever wanted to do was draw, make cards and watch cartoons. I could get lost for hours in the act of creating. Growing up has a way of striping out one of the childhood joys, although I did manage to hang onto small parts of what was inside me in those early days. Even when it came time for college, I knew I had to go to art school, or I wasn’t going at all. It’s debatable as to whether or not I should have majored in graphic design. Some of that decision was guided in response to what kind of art doesn’t leave you as a “starving artist”.
Several design jobs and a career change into ministry, there came an inevitable ache that surfaced and wouldn’t go away. You know what i’m talking about? The kind that gnaws at you over time, always just beneath the surface. No amount of job or career change resolves it. It’s deeper than that. It’s hinged on purpose. This goes way beyond working just so you can pay rent, have a car, provide for a family. Beyond working to pay bills and for possessions and vacations. I think most people may not hate their job, but they’re not loving it either.
What I’m talking about is the stuff of dreams. That place where your very being comes alive, and intersects with your talents. That place where you are fully alive.
I’ve been on the journey towards that place for a long time. There were pit stops and false destinations along the way. But it kept calling.
What’s my dream? To create art that engages people; that connects with their hearts and moves them. Art that is helpful. I want to give myself to this pursuit fully, while being able to “make a living” from it. It’s a dream that is filled with creating in multiple formats utilizing all my talents and abilities. And the more I press into this, the clearer it becomes.
Do you know what I’m talking about? Having a dream and passion so consuming that you don’t have a choice but to lean into it?
Most of us turn back in fear at some point, or hear the “voices” of reason, responsibility, etc. They tell you you can’t do it. And too often so many of us believe them.
For me, as the passion grew, and the dream beaconed louder, all I could do was take the right next step. One after the other.
And now, it feels like my biggest step of all. I’m pursuing my dream. All in. What does that mean?
....I’m going full time into my own art business.
Sometimes it takes an event to interrupt your routine. Mine was my previous employer eliminating a few positions (mine included) due to financial difficulties.
I’ve been pondering my next steps for a while now, and it feels a bit like God has pushed me out of the nest. I’ve been doing my own art in the margins, but it feels like God has orchestrated recent events for me to seize this opportunity. To lean in to where He is calling me.
I will be looking to build up my “ARTrepreneurial” business in what has been referred to as the “Portfolio Life”. Think of it as a wheel with spokes (see drawing below). Each spoke represents a different facet of what I will offer.
My desire is to use my art to touch people’s hearts, to provide a help or needed service. And I want to share my own journey and learnings with others, specifically artists, who may be struggling in their own creativity. Some of these areas have already been in the works, while others will be built over time. I’m sure things will look different down the road, but this is where i’m starting.
So, why am I telling you all this?
Because you have journeyed with me. You view my daily art that I post. YOU are part of MY story. The truth is, I’m chasing a DREAM. And I can’t do it alone. So I’m inviting you to PARTNER with me.
What am I asking?
Thank you for taking the time to read this, and journey with me. You have been an encourager of my art over the past few years, and I deeply value that. I am excited, nervous, thrilled, scared all the the same time for what comes next. My family and I are placing our complete trust in God, His leading and provision as we set out on this new adventure.
To infinity and beyond...
Around the early 1960’s my mom had a receptionist job for a large bank in NYC. She recalled a time she had the opportunity to buy art from an awkward artist who shuffled into the bank with art tucked under his arm. He laid out several prints and original art that raised a few eyebrows. He had come to see the president of the bank, who my mom worked directly for. As he left, the bank workers commented on this odd fellow, but I don’t believe that anyone was really interested in his art. It seemed too strange.
Can you relate to that experience of buying art? You don’t know if the risk is worth it. You're not sure this will be a good investment. And some Artists sure can be… Odd. Why encourage that behavior right?
It turns out that the awkward artist who was trying to sell his work that day was… Andy Warhol. When my mom told me this, I gasped. WHAT???!!! We could have owned a Warhol??? He was a major influence in my work in art school. Her response was that no one really knew who he was at that point, and had no idea what the value of his art would be.
And that’s just it, right? No one knows. What artist might become really popular, and who might never make it out of the small town they grew up in?
Art is an investment. It’s an investment in the art work that is created, as well as the artist themselves. Buy art that speaks to you. That moves you. Art that is valuable to you regardless of monetary gain.
So I’ll ask again- are you investing in any emerging Artists? You may or may not be investing in an individual, or collection of pieces that increase in value, but you will certainly be investing in beauty, a point of view or a unique style and voice. You will be investing in Art (Capital “A”). What if you were one of the few taking the chance, believing in the artist, ready to be that catalyst that could make all the difference?
Invest in art. Invest in the artist. Is my writing about this a bit self serving? Sure, I have work available for purchase and would love some collectors. If you're interested you can view some of my paintings here. But even if it’s not my art, go invest in something today. It just might make all the different for you and the artist. Who knows, you both might get your 15 minutes of fame too! :)
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”
— Vincent Van Gogh
The thought of doing a 365 day daily art project can seems daunting. What will I do for that long? What if I get bored or run out of things to draw? What if I quit after a week, like that diet I tried last year? I had such good intentions and high hopes, but at the end of the day, it amounted to nothing, except a reminder that either i’m a failure, a quitter, or I just seem to be missing something in my DNA to enable me to complete the task at hand.
I learned early on that I needed SMALL projects. I can’t think in 365 day chunks. But I can do 30 days. Or even 100 days. So after a little bit, I started to identify a topic that I wanted to tackle for 30 days. 30 days of self portraits, 30 days of pets, 20 days of toes, 30 days of faces... you get the idea. I started to incorporate Instagram and social media. I would sketch people’s photos who would show up in my feed. I would then tag them so they could join in the fun too. It was a great way to be held accountable because I was posting publicly, as well as meet new friends. I started to sketch celebrity photos they posted on Instagram, and tagged them too. Some of them even liked and shared (and occasionally commented to my delight as well) I mean, who wouldn’t like to be included in being sketched by an artist, right? Most people consider it an honor.
I also joined in a 100 Day Project that was being hosted by another artist I was following on Instagram, Elle Luna. She threw out the challenge to join in with creating or making anything for 100 days straight. We would all start and end together, posting and hash tagging so we could all follow along and encourage each other. I did this project twice. The first time, I sketched a black line drawing based on the photos of others, using only my iPhone and a stylus. The second time I did the same, only this time, adding in color to the background and key parts of the drawing. Every day was a new adventure. I would look for inspiration, and others would follow along wondering what I would post next. And some, hoped that they might make it into my project. (In the spirit of full disclosure, I did attempt another 100 day project recently, but I got behind and the subject matter wasn’t engaging me enough, so I only made it to day 60 or so. You've got to choose carefully, or you won't follow through when things get tough.)
It was always a thrill at the end of the 100 days, to create a photo montage of all the images. One giant image to chronicle the past 100 days.
I talk about the importance of this process and gaining momentum in an art making practice, more in depth in my video course “Your Artists’ Journey”.
Check it out if this sounds like something that would be of interest.
What bite-sized tips have you discovered along the way that helps in your art making practice?
Create and release.
It sounds simple enough right?
Just put your head down, work hard, release your art. Don't care about what people think. Don't listen to that internal critical voice. Don't care results. Don't care about sales, opportunity, being understood as an artist or having your art valued.
Oh.
Yeah, it's not so simple. But the alternative might be worse. Trying to manipulate outcomes or predict events can lead to a high level of frustration. It can cause you to quit too early. It can make us feel like we're not in control. And the hard truth is, we're not.
So what do we do?
Create for today, serve people with your art. And for me, it involves my faith, trusting God is bigger than it all. Trust that when I'm creating art from an authentic place, it will find it's way to those who need it most. Trust that if nothing monetarily comes from a certain piece of art, perhaps it yields an invisible dividend of being an encouragement or help to someone who really needs it.
If we learn to create and release, we just might learn to create from a place of freedom. I suspect it takes practice. So, here's to practicing something that's worth it.
“I practice martial arts not to win over other people but to win over my own heart. ”
If you've been following me for any length of time, you know that I practice a daily art habit. I create at least one piece of art a day, and post it to social media. As of late I have also been incorporating public images I find through my social media streams, namely Instagram.
Some people have wondered why I would choose to pick a random stranger and use their post for inspiration to create a daily digital drawing. Aside from looking for ideas and inspiration, I have found that when I create a piece of art centered around someone else, it brings surprise and delight to that person (expect only once, where the person was a little apprehensive).
There has been so much noise on social media with everyone airing their opinions on current events and politics. So much hate and division. Rather than add fuel to the fire or checking out completely, I'd rather start another conversation - using social media to spread JOY and KINDNESS.
Below are two recent examples of recipients of my daily art from their posts to Instagram, along with their reactions. This is why I do it. To make people smile. To make them feel noticed and loved, even if for a moment in their day. You never know what someone else may be going through. And as an Artist, you have the power to use your art to benefit someone else's life. I mean, it's blessed you in the act of creating it right? Why not share that blessing?
One of the many Yoga inspired digital drawings I've done as of late. @flyandreleaseyoga
This drawing was following a recent Walker Stalker event, where I was part of the Artist Alley. So many fans of The Walking Dead were excited to meet their favorite stars. I just had to capture this moment from @ProducerJamieNYC with #NormanReedus @BigBaldHead
My corner booth set up at the Heroes and Villains Fan Fest, NJ.
So you’re thinking about doing an art show? Awesome! I say go for it, but be sure to think things through and be ready to keep adapting. Here’s three pieces of advice i’d share with anyone even thinking about doing art show:
Don’t wait until you're “ready” because you never will be. Do your research. Plan as wisely as you can. Read articles and posts from others you can learn from. I highly suggest you check out The Ultimate Guide to Profitable Art Shows by Owen Garratt. I have purchased this course myself and there's a wealth of info) But at a certain point, you have to jump. You don't need a lot of product. As a matter of fact, from my experience the simpler you keep things the clearer it is for your potential customers. And you’ll spend less time trying to reign things back in after the fact. Expect that you will learn most by doing. Experience is your best teacher.
It's pretty much a given that you will need to experiment to see what works best for you - what shows, what time of the year, what sells… And there are a lot of variables. Bad weather? You might get low attendance. Did the show promoter do something to anger people in their planning (or lack thereof)? People might not be in a buying mood. Is the show around a holiday? You might clean up with people looking for gifts. My point is - do as many shows as you can in as close of a time span as you can manage, so that you’re learning is accelerated. Fail often and fail forward, as they say.
You need to be committed not only to your craft, but also the business of your craft, and treat it like such. Expect to sacrifice time, money, and energy. It’s not a get rich quick game. You will need money upfront to invest in your art and product (as well as display racks, signage, etc). Investigate your costs so your pricing is right. Hopefully in all of this sacrifice, it pays off by you selling your art and products, making connections and being presented with more opportunities. It all comes down to relationship - connecting with people who have an interest in your art.
Even after my 6th event and 2 years into this, i’m getting ready to try a new systems and change up my marketing again. I keep a note pad with me at every show and con I vendor at so I can make notes of what I need to change or do more of.
It’s not or the faint of heart, but selling your art at shows can be rewarding. You get to talk with people who appreciate your art. You get to meet other artists and vendors and learn from them. Although most people enjoy shopping online these days, there is no substitute to in person opportunities. It's not "either/or" but "and/both".
What upcoming art show can you sign up for today? Take a step forward!
“...Most of my songs were about believing in yourself, standing up for yourself and fighting for what you believe in. ”
Sometimes you find a voice speaking into your journey in the strangest of places. Even places where you're not looking for it.
The other night I watched a documentary on the band Twisted Sister on Netflix called “We Are Twisted F***ing Sister!” I was 14 years old when “Stay Hungry” was released including the hits “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock”. I vividly remember their videos being played on MTV (back when it really was MUSIC television). I haven’t thought about this band aside from the occasional 80’s station playing a song, and “meeting” lead singer Dee Snider at a stop light when I lived on Long Island (But that’s another story for another day…).
I flipped on the documentary because I was curious, perhaps a bit nostalgic and let’s face it, Netflix’s library can be seriously lacking at times. I have to admit though, I was pleasantly surprised. (I know, right?)
There were two ideas that really stood out to me through the telling of their story:
First, they didn't let the music system they were in block them from attaining their goals. Instead, they created a new system. When they couldn't get their music on the radio airwaves or get signed to a record deal, they bought advertising space where they played their own music. As a result, when people heard the snippets of their songs over and over again, they thought that they were hearing Twisted Sister being played on the radio. And It seemed that they were everywhere. It created a buzz.
Second. They didn't give up. The band was tenacious. They just kept going no matter how many closed doors they met with. All the failed attempts (and near misses) at getting signed. All the shows they played tirelessly and endlessly. They just kept going. And when they had exhausted all their resources and avenues, there was one last opportunity. Even though it seemed small and like one last ditch effort, they went for broke. It was a 25 minute spot on the British television show called The Tube. And they made the most that they could out of it to win over the audience. It was as a result of this appearance that they were eventually signed. Their dream they had became reality.
As it turns out, when the path you're on seems twisted, you just might receive some much needed insights from unexpected places. You just need to be listening.
What’s some insight you’ve received from an unconventional source?
Leave me a comment. I’d love to hear about it!
Last night, I posted a drawing to social media like I do every day. But this time, my offering was for the victims who lost their lives in the mass shooting in Orlando, and their friends and families.
Here's was my original post:
“Tonight I spent the evening drawing each victim of the Orlando shooting who died, praying for the families. Sometimes any response feels inadequate. But drawing is what I do, so tonight I did it to honor the victims and their family. There is so much pain.
This is not about politics. This is not about laws. There are already too many opinions and spin doctors. This is not a place for any of that. Please keep any comments to yourself that aren’t grace filled.
This is not about anything but real people. People who were victims. And as a follower of Jesus I believe I am called to show His love, and stand with the broken hearted. As feeble of an attempt as this is, I offer it with my thoughts and prayers, to a hurting community...
”
The reaction has been overwhelming. I always hope that I can create art that moves people, and apparently this has. I am truly humbled. Truth be told, I almost didn't create it. I was feeling like it wasn't enough. There's a story in the Bible where a little boy offers his small lunch of fish & loaves to Jesus, so that He might feed the five thousand. And while I'm not delusional enough to think that my feeble offeirng is in any way comparable, I do pray that it brings whatever healing, encouragement, love, light and hope it can.
If you know any of the victims friend or families, i would love it if you could share this with them. To let them know they are not alone. To let them know that, when one hurts, we all hurt.
I felt like I needed to create a post where I could share the drawings larger. To better honor each person. So I've listed them below. If you pray, why not pray as you view the names and drawings. And do something today to spread love.
Stanley Almodovar III
Amanda Alvear
Oscar A Aracena-Montero
Rodolfo Ayala-Ayala
Antonio Davon Brown
Darryl Roman Burt II
Angel L. Candelario-Padro
Juan Chevez-Martinez
Luis Daniel Conde
Cory James Connell
Tevin Eugene Crosby
Deonka Deidra Drayton
Simon Adrian Carrillo Fernandez
Leroy Valentin Fernandez
Mercedez Marisol Flores
Peter O. Gonzalez-Cruz
Juan Ramon Guerrero
Paul Terrell Henry
Frank Hernandez
Miguel Angel Honorato
Javier Jorge-Reyes
Jason Benjamin Josaphat
Eddie Jamoldroy Justice
Anthony Luis Laureanodisla
Christopher Andrew Leinonen
Alejandro Barrios Martinez
Brenda Lee Marquez McCool
Gilberto Ramon Silva Menendez
Kimberly Morris
Akyra Monet Murray
Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo
Geraldo A. Ortiz-Jimenez
Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera
Joel Rayon Paniagua
Jean Carlos Mendez Perez
Enrique L. Rios, Jr.
Jean C. Nives Rodriguez
Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado
Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz
Yilmary Rodriguez Solivan
Edward Sotomayor Jr.
Shane Evan Tomlinson
Martin Benitez Torres
Jonathan Antonio Camuy Vega
Juan P. Rivera Velazquez
Luis S. Vielma
Franky Jimmy Dejesus Velazquez
Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon
Jerald Arthur Wright
On the Left is the original photo and the final digital pet portrait on the right.
If you had told me when I was a kid that I would be capturing people's beloved family member pets using my art, I would have laughed. Or run the other way at least.
When I was around seven years old, a neighborhood friend encouraged me to pet a dog that was loose on our street. She was under the impression that this dog belonged to a fellow neighbor. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a stray, who when feeling threatened, chomped down his teeth on my little seven year old hand. I was terrified. I can still remember the sting of the bite. I had to get several stitches, that resulted in scars still visible today. So, needless to say, I became extremely afraid of dogs.
Thankfully, years later my family adopted a scrappy little Border Collie mixed breed, named Barney. He was insane. He loved to howl while I played guitar, jumped in the air constantly, and wedged himself between me and some girlfriends through the years. He had wiggled his way into my heart. My fears quickly faded away. In its place grew a love for "man’s best friend".
Today, I am the proud owner of two dogs, Biscuit (a Golden mix) and Cooper (a Chihuahua mix). They are forever by my side (Even as I write this).
If you’re anything like me, your camera roll on your phone is filled with photos of your pet. When they make “that” face. When they pose for you almost knowing you’ll be posting their photo to social media immediately. We try to capture their personality and essence. Because we love them, and want others to love them too. We want them to see what we see!
But we never print those photos do we? We post them to social media where they get buried in the stream of activity. We might have intentions to print our pets photo, but even i we do, the likelihood of us actually hanging that photo on display are pretty slim. Can you relate?
That’s why I love creating pet portraits. It’s making a decision to value your pet with art. Art that you proudly display in your home or office. Art that capture that certain something about your pet - that thing you love. That thing you always talk about with others.
I get it. I’m one of you- a pet lover. Whether it’s creating art for a current pet or one that has passed on, I love to partner with owners like you to create a special work of art that you can be proud to display and share with others.
So can I ask you a question? Have you considered having a pet portrait created? Do you know where you would proudly display it? Maybe today is the day to push past intentions (like printing those camera roll photos), and finally make the decision to have a one-of-a-kind pet portrait created.
If you’re interested, I’d love to talk to you about how I can help. I apply not only my many years as an artist, but also my love for animals, these pets that become family. It would be my privilege! Just fill out this form at the bottom of the page and let’s start our conversation today!
What do you do when you feel like you're doing everything you possibly can to advance in your art and yet there seems to be a lack of opportunity? Typically, you have two choices...
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There are two things you can do right now, where ever & whoever you are, to put your creative skills to work and advance as an artist.
1. Create for YOU.
When was the last time you created something "just because"? Something that you just felt inspired to do that had nothing to do with work, or getting paid. Something born of passion. There might be a million reasons you can come up with why you shouldn't or can't. But tell them to stuff it, and get to creating. It just might be the best thing you've done in a long while. Even if no one else ever sees it.
2. Create for THEM.
You have this amazing ability. And you have it for a reason - to share it! Once you get past the objections of why you can't create for someone else (It's not good enough, i can't afford it, i need to get paid for it...) you can experience the joy of giving. You never know what impact sharing your art with others might have. And while I'm not saying to give away all your art and do it for free- I am saying that sometimes you do need to give it away. Because it's about more than money. It's about creating something uniquely, beautifully you and having your creation impact someone else's life for good.
What are you going to create today? Who needs to experience your art?
I recently saw a minimal line drawing that I really liked from illustrator Greg Betza's on Instagram. When I asked him what the secret was to creating engaging and intriguing minimal line drawings his response was incredible.
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I was recently listening to a Burning questions video by designer and art thought leader, James Victore. Something that he talks about on a regular basis is the importance of “saying something”. Having an opinion that matters.
One of the things about having an opinion, and saying something through work that matters, is that you need to know yourself, before you can really share yourself. It sounds elementary but it's true.
And how do you get to know yourself? Time. Effort. Miles. You have to keep showing up. Process. Think. Discover. There are no quick routes. The goal isn't in the destination but in the road traveled. And on this journey you not only discover more of who you are, what your passions and abilities are, you'll also discover that maybe, just maybe, the things you thought you wanted (the things you pleaded and prayed and begged for) weren't the things you really wanted after all. Sometimes not getting what you want is actually the best thing. Because over time you realize that there's something better. More true to who you are. And you didn't settle for Good when Best was just ahead on your journey.
That word, Journey. That's a word that I've been thinking about a lot lately. My journey as an artist. Where I’ve been. What I’ve seen and experienced. What I have to share.
I saw this quote on Instagram the other day from Leonardo Da Vinci (I'm pretty sure it wasn't his account...): "The First step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are."
“The First step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”
At this point in my journey, do I want to keep striving to create great art? Yes, but it's bigger than that. Bigger than Pet Portraits. Bigger than Pop Culture Art. Bigger than Graphic Design. Bigger than 100 Day Projects and 365 daily art making practices. Bigger. Bigger. Bigger.
What is it then? What's bigger than all of that? It’s ME. My life, insights, the way I see the world - my Journey. It's seeking to be a help and an inspiration to others. And currently, learning to embrace writing so that I might blog, or speak, or maybe even write a book about my journey and experiences (the thought of that sounds crazy to me, but maybe that's proof that I sound be leaning into it). So I'm doing my best to push my fears aside. I'm keeping my eyes and ears open for opportunities. Part of that is starting to blog again.
So here’s your invitation: to walk alongside me. As we travel together, I’ll let you in on what I’ve learned and what I’m thinking about. And hope it encourages you. And maybe, in turn, you will share with someone else.
Meet me here on Wednesdays!
Is there something about my journey as an artist you would like to know?
You're at a wedding. Or family party. Suddenly that sound starts. Everyone on the dance floor. Now. Because Kool and the Gang knows how to celebrate.
The other day I was talking with a fellow artist friend saying how hard it is to remember to celebrate. I paused for a moment wondering why that is.
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