Inktober -- It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint

/     Thirty-one days, 31 unique inked drawings. Without some planning, things can quickly go awry. This year, even with planning, there were some late nights and a few pieces that I wish had turned out better. Even so, it is always an enjoyable learning experience.

     One thing I learned is that feedback from my friends and family was essential. Just like the bands, cheerleaders, and characters lining a race route, the support and comments, likes and hearts, carried me over the finish line. Creating in a vacuum may be good for some artists, but not me. I thrive on the reaction -- good or bad -- of the observers. They give me the push to try harder or the joy of making others happy. 

     Another thing I learned is that I LOVE color! Using only black, white, and gray is a real challenge for me. Without Inktober, I doubt I would choose to work in monochrome. Inktober has pushed me outside my comfort zone and I am SO glad it did. I'm learning to push the value/contrast, which in turn adds depth to my pieces. 

     I also learned that I will continue to participate in Inktober. Something that tests my ability and resolve this much has to be good for me. I hope you choose to join me again next year, either with your own works of art or following along with participating artists. In the meantime, here are a few of my favorite pieces from this year: