And so it ends.
365 days ago, I began this project.
My intent was to improve myself and rewire my brain a bit. I
needed to lean hard back into my creative side. Things that I had
overwritten in my biological hard drive had to be restored. Part of me
needed to know I was capable of completing such a daunting task. And I
think I've succeeded.
It wasn't easy. I will never do it again. But I am glad I
did it. I would only recommend it to someone if they plan on taking it
seriously and wearing their medium of choice as a Sheppard would a
wandering lamb.
There were plenty of instances where I didn't think I would make it.
I remember coming down with the flu a mere week into it and
thinking I was already beat. But then I turned obstacle into subject
and made it through the other side.
I remember panicking several days later that I had run out
of ideas. Convinced my environment was too devoid of subject matter and
inspiration. This actually happened several times. But I just altered my
view of my environment and pushed forward.
This was something, to me, that HAD to be done. And I did it.
2.5 jobs, 2 residences, illness, holidays, alcohol haze and
mountains on mountains of self doubt and loathing. They all conspired
to end the whole thing early.
With every image serving as a reminder of how I spent the
last year. Every day that I wandered down roads and changed my view of
some mundane thing in my day-to-day. I finished it. And I do think I've
improved from when I started.
I will pick up another project after a (much needed, well
earned) break. But I doubt whatever I do will be under such a strict
time constraint.
I'm also aware I owe people illustrations. And they will
get them. Illustrating was not quite as prominent as I would have liked
over the last year. But I think as a creative type the drive to draw
just isn't as strong in me as it once was.
Before I sign off for the time being, I'd like to thank two
of my biggest internet supporters: Bryan and Lina. I can't articulate
how helpful it was to me mentally to have consistent admirers of my work
online. Just seeing a little red notification every day was huge for my
inconsistent morale.
So that is all. One incredible year in the books.
Thank you for taking the trip with me.
