Rediscovering Art: A Journey Through Sketching and Growth
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Chapter 1: Embracing My Artistic Journey
After four decades, I've reignited my passion for sketching with charcoal pencils.
This summer, my inspiration comes from a cherry tomato plant I affectionately named "Cyrus the Great." He has truly lived up to his title, yielding over 30 delicious tomatoes, with around 20 more still growing.
Recently, however, he began to wilt, and his leaves turned brown. I felt compelled to honor him and preserve the memory of his splendor before his decline. A simple photograph wouldn’t suffice, as it would likely be lost among countless others. Thus, I resolved to create a sketch of his likeness.
In high school, I faced humiliation from a teacher who showcased my painting as a poor example. This experience instilled in me a lingering sense of anger, resentment, and fear of ridicule, causing me to avoid painting for 40 years. Yet, Cyrus the Great has given me the courage to confront that fear. He has provided a bountiful harvest for my husband and me, and he deserves to be celebrated.
Here are two sketches of him: one before his trimming and one after.
Since the trimming, Cyrus has begun to flourish anew, sprouting fresh growth at the base and ripening tomatoes above.
Cyrus the Great resides indoors, perched on a windowsill with a view of the Freedom Tower in lower Manhattan. He is our sole plant and has strengthened the bond between my husband and me as we nurture him together.
I will continue to document the journey of Cyrus’ life and eventual passing, and I invite you to share in this experience. Please keep him in your thoughts.
Chapter 2: The Impact of Failure on Creativity
In the video "Storytime: I FAILED art class in Highschool," the creator reflects on their own struggles with art in school, highlighting the challenges and setbacks that often accompany the creative journey.
The second video, "My Art School Experience, and why I failed so Badly," provides further insight into the author's artistic challenges, emphasizing how these experiences shaped their perception of creativity.