Friday, August 16, 2013

Life after College

Toto, you’re not in Kansas anymore, that’s for damn sure. I’m going through such a transitional stage in my life right now and my brain is still trying to process all of it. Where do I go from here? Shouldn't I know? Shouldn't I have a big boy job lined up, in a new city, in my own apartment?

Well I don't. It's such a shitty feeling. I was fortunate enough to have parents who paid for all my expenses in college, but now I’m supporting myself. Granted I'm living at home and not paying rent. I was living in this delusional fantasy world and had no real concept of money before this moment.

Needless to say, them cutting me off is a blessing in disguise, because it’s lit a fire under my ass to kick things into high gear. I've been working on a website, doing commissions and working on a series, with the hopes that I'll get shout outs (reposts) from these individuals, which will give me some recognition and more commissions.
Here’s what I’ve accomplished:
The series is titled 'Ordinarily Inspirational' and I drew six portraits of people who have a very large and interactive following on Instagram. Hopefully I can get some promotion and good connections out of this!

 
Rachel Brathen-International Yoga Instructor

 
Brock O'Hurn- Motivational Gym Guru

 
FullyRaw Kristina, Vegan Goddess

 
Todrick Hall, YouTube Extraordinaire

 
Mimi Kirk, 75 year old Hottest Vegan Alive winner

 
Patrick Beach, GORGEOUS Yogi ;)

 
Rachel Brathen contacted me and I shipped my first drawing out to her on Tuesday! All the way to Aruba! AHHHH If you have an Instagram check her out, she's an international yoga superstar and such an uplifting spirit.  

I’m hustling as best as I can here. An alumni student came into my senior portfolio class and his advice to us was, “hustle if you want to make it as an artist.” That stuck with me, probably partially because he was hot. Haha
After I finished that series I drew my sister a portrait for her birthday.

Than I did this baby growth chart commission for my grandma, as a gift to my cousin’s future baby.

 
My most recent commission is this giant 4x5 foot canvas for my friend to hang in her classroom. She won teacher of the year last year and I hope this painting helps her win again this year! And I hope some other teachers, parents, faculty, etc. see my painting and want one for themselves!

 
I have two commissions that I’m about to start and I’m praying that the universe continues to bring me love and success.

Love and Light

Friday, August 9, 2013

College Saved Me

It’s hard to believe almost exactly three years ago, I created this blog. As I sat in my bed signing up for this Blogger account; I had absolutely no idea what to expect, how to properly articulate my thoughts, the amount of guys I was going to connect with or how much help and advice I was going to receive. Needless to say, making this blog is one of the most beneficial things I have done for myself. It's a gift that I gave to myself. The ultimate gift that keeps on giving.

Whether my posts were serious, shallow, funny, sad or just straight up ridiculous...all of them possessed meaning at that moment in time. I remember pouring my heart out into some of these posts, while the tears were pouring down my face. Yet, the unbelievable amount of love and acceptance I receive from you guys lifted my spirits so much, regardless of how silly I felt sharing them.
I look back on college without a single regret. It was the most profound four years of my life. I partied, experienced Greek Life, survived the dorms, met the most amazing people, found my faith, met guys, found my passion for art, sought counseling, discovered yoga, beat depression, went Pescatarian, came out of the closet and learned so much about myself. It's amazing how much someone can mature and grow in a couple of years.
Whether you’ve been following my journey since day one, or just recently stumbled upon my blog; I can’t even express in words, just how thankful I am for all of your love and guidance. The fact that you take the time out of your day to read and  comment on my posts is truly touching and appreciated. 

Thank you.
I’m ready to launch my career as an artist and surround myself with the people and activites that bring me happiness! I can’t wait to see what the future has in store!
Much love guys!