Last year I went to adjudication for a prestigious and very competitive summer program for visual arts. They had us bring artwork to be judged and do two drawing exercises in person. I then realized the harsh reality that my drawing abilities had plummeted. I was so focused on creating big impressive pieces that the most basic skills of creativity and sketching had plummeted. I was so angry with myself and frustrated that I decided to start in January 2018 I would fill one sketchbook a month. Specifically, a 40 page 5x8" sketchbook. I can confidently say, that was the best decision for my creativity, stress, skills, organization, and my mental health. To have one location to vomit and release your thoughts. I safe space to screw up, to cry, to make a mess, and to explore and capture a memory, thought or feeling. There is this misconception that keeping up a monthly drawing practice means that you create beautiful Instagram worthy pieces every day and you have to be a specific kind of artist to be able to do that. I believe that is all a lie. Everyone is capable of keeping a sketchbook a month, everyone can do it, and it will not be pretty but I believe that is the beauty of it.

I  am a high school student who has been creating and studying art for 16 years. I am a mixed media artist who truly tried everything I can get my hands on. I am in AP Art and I am the Vice President of my schools National Art Honors Society. Since middle school, I have gotten into my high schools Art Show which is a very big and competitive feat. Last year I shared a booth as a sophomore and was one of the only sophomores there. In addition, I can confidently state that people remembered my artwork and my booth.

More info - https://skl.sh/2TorAYj