We moved to Chicago three and a half years ago. Like many Chicagoans, we frequently use the Lakeshore Drive and pass through the Lincoln Park Zoo often. The Ulysses S. Grant Memorial stands right by the drive, looking at the lake.
I have been looking at it for three and a half years, thinking of drawing it. I thought it would be hard as I am not good with animal drawings. I was not sure what material to use. There was not enough time. I had many excuses.
A few weeks ago, a friend + career coach mentioned her friend's "post one illustration a day for a year" challenge, when I was complaining about my not finding enough time for the things I love. I thought about it for a while. I thought the 365 days would be too much for me, but 30 days seemed not enough. I settled on 100 days, which seems to be popular (I did not know!).
I started a tumblr page to keep all my illustrations in one place and keep myself accountable for a daily entry. It is here. It has been so rewarding. The time I spent drawing is almost meditative. I sometimes wake up early in the morning to work on my illustration of the day. Even the coffee tastes better with it.
I finally worked on the Ulysses S. Grant. It was the first take. I did not think it was very successful but at least I tried.
I am curious about where this challenge will take me.
Comments