2019 is almost over, and I think a lot of us are ready to say good riddance.
But while this year brought a lot of struggles, it’s also been one of the most productive and successful of my recent years, and brought me into a new phase of my career. It’s in my nature to find the positive in every situation. I’m certainly optimistic about the future, despite knowing that there are some really big challenges ahead.
I always feel nostalgic this time of year. I like to look back at what I did and didn’t do throughout the year and make plans for the future. I was able to achieve many of my goals, as well as things I didn’t even realize I wanted! That’s always a bonus right?
I want to elaborate on that last point, because it’s something huge, something really important that will carry into 2020 (and beyond).
Many of you know about Tree Girl, and that it was my first attempt at writing and illustrating a children’s book. I didn’t set out on this artistic journey. When I began the year I had full intentions to focus 100% on my fine art, and heavily pursue gallery representation.
However, that word “illustration” seemed to sneak it’s way into my vocabulary more and more during 2019. I had a few commissions that were very much along the lines of visual storytelling. I began to change the way I saw my artwork. It was less about one final image and more about an overarching story. I began a few series that had threads of story involved, and of course, Tree Girl.
Going through the process of illustrating a book really opened my eyes to a new world. I of course knew this world existed but I never imagined myself being part of it. I kind of thought “this is what I do” and “that’s what they do.”
But apparently I do it too! And WOW did I love it. I mean I was hooked from the start.
Now that I’m able to sit back and reflect on the entire process, I see how fulfilling it was. From the first spark of creativity that floods my brain when I read the words, to the last swipe of the brush in finishing the final illustration, I was in my element. So naturally, I want to continue that course.
I have already starting writing and illustrating my next book (“Santa Doesn’t Come to Our House”) and once again, that pure sense of joy has returned. You know what? There might be something addicting about getting lost in a story, and remembering how simply life was when we were kids. For a short time, I get to let go of my adult anxieties and just live in my imagination. I get to use my creativity and problem solving to come up with ways to visually tell the story. I get to tap into a place in my mind that is usually pushed aside by day to day struggles.
I think that is something precious. But what makes it all even better - the cherry on top - is when a kid reads the story, gets swept away in the visuals, and enjoys themselves. Especially when the message is more meaningful. That is so fulfilling! I am really looking forward to continuing this in 2020. I’m going to apply to some illustration agencies after the holidays settle down, so I’ll keep you posted!
Anyways…I hope you are all ready to celebrate New Years Eve. Many blessings!
