Learning, and then re-learning

I have been out of University since 2012, and although I now have some experience under my belt I still have not managed to get the illusive 'full time job'. Yes, I have been down about it. But instead of wallowing, and pretending not to understand why I've taken a hard look at what I am doing. And it's simple. I'm not working hard enough, I am not showing anyone what I can do. Simply put, people won't hire you if they don't know you're there.

I realized this a little while ago, panicked and took on so much that I couldn't cope. This meant I constantly let myself down because I didn't complete anything. My confidence shot, I withdrew again and even stopped drawing for a little bit. (Never OK by the way.) 

Without the supportive network of like-minded people I simply stopped. I run on praise and other people's approval, not good. 

Then I did one very important thing. I joined my local Roller Derby Team, Severn Roller Torrent. This crazy, fast, terrifying, exhilarating and, most importantly, supportive sport made something click in me. For the first time (in forever..) I found real self belief. And this wonderful thing has fed back into my work.

I signed up to Magic Box, an online digital art class run by Chris Oatley. (If you're interested in seeing my first assignment go to my pintrest.) I listen to animation podcasts; Skwigly, Guys with Pencils and Paper Wings to name a few. (It's amazing how inspiring listening to these amazing people is.)

I have set myself REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS  that I will complete.

And step by step, I will make myself into the artist I want to be. 

If you have read all of this... thank you. It has taken me a long time to get to this point. 

...now have some @Sketch_Dailies art as a reward.