Today, I'm going to show you how to draw a crow using just a simple ballpoint pen. But before we dive into the drawing, I want to talk to you about something really important—something that held me back for a long time and might be holding you back too.
When I first started out, I used to spend hours in bookstores, flipping through art books and admiring other artists' work. I was constantly on the lookout for the next art class or workshop, thinking I needed formal training to be considered a real artist. I believed that I needed someone's permission or some kind of official validation to start creating seriously.
But here's the truth: you don't need permission to draw. You don’t need a college degree, an award, or approval from anyone. If you have the urge to create, that’s all the validation you need. You can grab any pen or pencil lying around and a stack of paper from a printer and just start drawing.
It took me a while to realize that the only thing standing between me and my art was me. Instead of spending so much time looking at what others were doing, I needed to spend more time actually drawing. Every minute I spent with a pen in my hand was a minute closer to becoming the artist I wanted to be.
I know a lot of you feel like you aren’t good enough to start. You believe you need an art education or some sort of formal training to be considered an artist. But the truth is, art is for everyone. You don’t need to wait for the perfect moment or the right tools. Your creativity doesn’t require a certificate.
Now, let's talk about the curse of perfection. It's something that plagues so many of us. We’re raised in a culture that values perfection and often ties our worth to our achievements. This mindset can be crippling for artists. The fear of making something that isn’t perfect can stop you from creating anything at all. But here’s the thing—art isn’t about perfection. It’s about expression. It’s about capturing a moment, a feeling, or an idea. Imperfections are what make your art unique and personal.
As we grow older, there's another challenge we face. We’re often taught to prioritize activities that directly relate to making money. It's a strange part of our culture, but it’s deeply ingrained. Spending time on something you love, like drawing, can feel indulgent or unproductive if it isn’t linked to a paycheck. But this mindset is harmful. Creativity and passion are vital parts of who we are. They deserve time and attention, regardless of their financial payoff.
When I finally shifted my focus from seeking approval to just creating, everything changed. I started drawing every day, no matter what. Some days, my sketches were rough and imperfect, but other days, I created something I was truly proud of. And with each drawing, I felt my confidence grow.
So, while I draw this crow, I want you to grab whatever you have at hand and start drawing with me. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be anything at all. Just let your hand move, let your creativity flow, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
Remember, art is about expression, not perfection. You don’t need anyone’s permission to start. The more you draw, the better you’ll get, and the more you’ll realize that the only validation you need comes from within.