your sketchbook doesn't have to be pretty: realistic sketchbook session

the title is true. make "ugly" sketchbooks!

in this video, I chat a bit about how social media (specifically sketchbook tours and art content on Youtube and Instagram) warp our perspective on what our sketchbooks should look like and how we should fill our sketchbooks, whether it be with a certain supply or certain subject matter. we have the freedom to use sketchbooks however we want, finished artwork, quick scribbles, thumbnailing and all. I personally use my sketchbook to learn, experiment, and explore new ideas, and I want to invite you to consider to do the same!

furthermore I feature a realistic sketchbook session of me attempting to draw some cats, and practice some digital coloring in my digital sketchbook.(feel free to draw with me!) it definitely did not turn out as "pretty" as I wanted it to be, but I learned so much through the process and gave myself the permission to leave things unfinished (and also reminded me that references are very important! lol). the learning process is not always aesthetic and uniform as social media may make it out to be, and our expectations to get something right the first try is warped due to that trend. therefore I wanted to show my fails, my multiple attempts, my unfinished work to make you feel less alone.

I hope this video serves as a reminder that not everything in your sketchbook has to be pretty and perfect. let things be unfinished, explore as many new ideas as possible, make multiple attempts at drawing something, but above all else, make sure you're aligning with your own values as an artist and a person. your artistic voice is way to precious to lose to social media or impossible expectations.

keep drawing.

much love,

shay



About Me:
Hi! I'm Shay, an artist and illustrator based in Central Florida. I make goofy drawings, digital art, and traditional paintings of my favorite characters, along with my own personal series of characters and universes. My art practice is fueled by my passion to create, entertain, and my crippling caffeine addiction.

Socials:
Koji: https://koji.to/@shannonnicholsart
Website: https://shannonnichols.artstation.com/
Instagram: Instagram: sketches.of.shay
Studio: Instagram: studio.of.shay
Business Inquiries: [email protected]

Support My Art:
Kofi: https://ko-fi.com/sketchesofshay

Equipment/Supplies:
Camera: iPhone 13 Pro
Camera Stand: Viozon Extendable Selfie Stand
Display Tablet: Huion Kamvas Pro 16
Software: Clip Studio Paint Pro
Sketchbook: Talens Art Creation Sketchbook (color: coral)
Colored Pencils: Prismacolor Colored Pencils

Music:
Music track: Creamy by Aylex
Source: https://freetouse.com/music/
Vlog Music for Videos (Free Download)
massobeats - honey jam:  massobeats - honey jam (royalty free ...