Paulie's Sketch Blog

PERSONAL USE ONLY

Get organised and motivated with this Daily Goals page designed around a cute fox called Dhilly!

ABOUT THE PRODUCT

This file is an INSTANT DOWNLOAD and will give you a large PDF that is compatible with the GoodNotes App which lets you personalise your planner pages digitally and then write on them via your phone or with an Apple Pencil on the iPad.

You can also print out these pages to stick to your fridge if it helps you stay organised.

Please be aware that this file is designed to be a full A4 page that has been made at 600dpi to ensure the BEST quality.

If you want to print your pages, please make sure to set your printer to a borderless setting for the best likeness and quality.

ADDITIONAL INFO

Colours may vary slightly due to your screen monitor settings such as your screen brightness and your printers settings, including ink and paper quality.

Watermarks are only on product images and will not be included on the downloaded file. This being said, please note that all artwork is protected by copyright and may not be copied, altered or otherwise used commercially - even in parts, without my express permission. All rights reserved.

PERSONAL USE ONLY

Get organised with a weekly planner page designed around a cute fox called Dhilly!

ABOUT THE PRODUCT

This file is an INSTANT DOWNLOAD and will give you a large PDF that is compatible with the GoodNotes App which lets you personalise your planner pages digitally and then write on them via your phone or with an Apple Pencil on the iPad.

You can also print out these pages to stick to your fridge if it helps you stay organised.

Please be aware that this file is designed to be a full A4 page that has been made at 600dpi to ensure the BEST quality.

If you want to print your pages, please make sure to set your printer to a borderless setting for the best likeness and quality.

ADDITIONAL INFO

Colours may vary slightly due to your screen monitor settings such as your screen brightness and your printers settings, including ink and paper quality.

Watermarks are only on product images and will not be included on the downloaded file. This being said, please note that all artwork is protected by copyright and may not be copied, altered or otherwise used commercially - even in parts, without my express permission. All rights reserved.

A set of brushes for Procreate designed to help you plan content or storyboard animations.

You get:

1x 16:9 Horizontal Stamp Brush

1x 16:9 Vertical Stamp Brush

Hope you find them useful!

Please watch the video to see how the brushes work! <3

You can import them into Procreate by dragging and dropping the file into the program.

ADDITIONAL INFO

It’s time for the round up of week three of the #MarchoftheFairies challenge! We’re almost finished with this one! Patrons for example, just have one fairy left to see until it’s the end of the challenge! I’ve had quite a few medical appointments as well as new medications added this time around, so it’s made the process a bit slower. Saying this, I will definitely finish, so despite there being naughty brain fluid and autonomic nervous system complications, there is at least that. Have to be proud of myself for at least completing things, despite so many medical complications that make life a lot harder, you know? As a reminder, this challenge was created by the lovely, Casey Robin, who right now is working on MerMay herself, so you should definitely check out what she’s up to!

I hope to have the update for week 4 to you soon too, I just have to make reels etc first and I’m only one person! There’s always something to do hahaha! Anyway, here’s week three!

There’s a rich history of symbolism in folklore stories surrounding fairy rings. Some cultures believe that they are portals to another world, while others say that the mushrooms are simply used as dinner tables for fairies. There is also the belief that they bring good luck and improve fertility; and that they are a sign of a fairy village underground.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (E380, WG01, E050, E120, E130, GY5, GY8, G470) - https://amzn.to/4d6sDpf

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (sepia) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Usually symbolic representation of obstacles, challenges, and potential entrapment, Thorny thicket can symbolise the difficulties encountered in spiritual growth, romantic relationships, or the path to liberation. In a biblical context, it can also represent the curse and consequences of sin, or the distractions that hinder spiritual fruitfulness. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (CGII00, CG020, CG2, NG09, G330, GY43, PB5) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (black) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

In essence, the frog pond effect underscores the subjective nature of self-perception and the powerful influence of social comparison on our sense of self. The "frog pond" effect, also known as the "big fish in a small pond" effect, describes the phenomenon where individuals tend to evaluate themselves more favorably when they are in a group where they are high-performing, even if they are not truly superior, compared to when they are in a group where they are low-performing, despite being equally capable.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (Y120, E470, YR250, Y3, Y140, FY020, YR3, G050, G060, GY5, G7, 120) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (green) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Lacewings are often seen as symbols of protection, beneficial influence, and natural balance. Their delicate, lace-like wings and beneficial role in controlling pests make them a positive symbol, particularly in gardening and nature contexts. They are also associated with the idea of seeking refuge and finding beauty in the natural world. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (G020, GY7, R20, R12, R7, R340, 120) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (dark green) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Luna moths symbolise transformation, rebirth, and new beginnings, often associated with the cycle of life and the ability to reinvent oneself. They are also seen as a symbol of magic and intuition, potentially marking the start of a new mystical or spiritual phase. In some cultures, they represent the soul or a connection to the mystical realm. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (Y010, G110, G120, GY4, GY8, Y070, R19, R21, E060, E310, CG2, CG5, P5, P1) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (orange) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Finished and Unfinished iPad Animations - A Procreate Compilation

https://youtu.be/lD60bJW7O74

As part of a group of 12 illustrators, I was lucky enough to be chosen to make art for a children’s book that was released in 2024 by writer, Aaron Ashmore. One thousand copies were donated to local Primary Schools, and just recently, another cool little thing happened!

I took the opportunity the other day to go and see the installation in person and it’s a pretty cool feeling to have your work up on a wall… But it’s an even better feeling that even if the reason people may see it may not be the best one (I’m not sure many people enjoy having to be in a hospital), it may potentially at least make some very poorly people smile while they aren’t feeling their best.

"Step into the history of Coventry in 'Made In Coventry'; a book in local author Aaron Ashmore's series of books celebrating the stories and people of the city. In this book, uncover some of the products and attractions produced in the city of Coventry over the years through the lens of Aaron and 12 talented illustrators who each have a special connection to our beloved city. The release of Made In Coventry will see a further 1,000 copies donated to Coventry primary schools taking the total amount to 10,000 books given to schools at no cost to the schools. 'Made in Coventry' showcases the artwork of 12 amazing illustrators who are: - Ana Jesus - Mark Andrews - Jess Roberts - Emma O Brien - Jessica Hartshorn - Paulette Arochena - Esmae Braithwaite - Ben Barter - Rob Yeo - Eleanor Loseby - Lauren Rebbeck - Dawn Bevins"  -- etchandpin.co.uk

We’re into April and although I’m half way through working on week three of #MarchoftheFairies, here’s the round up of the second week because I’m only one person and as much as I’d love to have super powers, sometimes I’m not always able to write these round ups before starting the following week!

As a little reminder, this art challenge was created and hosted by Casey Robin, who has been incredibly kind and encouraging to all the artists taking part.

I will obviously be extending this challenge into the month of April. My lovely brain hasn’t let me do much (for very long) at my desk without a lot of symptoms, so I’m just doing what I can before things get to the intensity I can no longer cope with. It’s incredibly frustrating as body is not cooperating, but… onwards!! Here’s the week two round up!!

The Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) is one of the three main festivals of the city of Kyoto. During the Victorian era, the hollyhock symbolised both ambition and fecundity in the language of flowers.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (RV010, RV260, R200, P1, P2, Y010, Y121, Y030, CG020, Y040, Y070, CG5, GY3, GY5) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Faber Castell Polychromo Pencils (9201-119, 9201-134, 9201-107, 9201-123) -  https://amzn.to/41bOjvP

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (pink) - https://amzn.to/3XJU2ap

Golden Fluid Acrylics (Anthraquinone Blue, Interference Red (Fine) - https://amzn.to/3XJUbKZ

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Beyond its beauty, the Maidenhair Fern has been interwoven with various cultural practices. In some traditions, it's believed to bring fortune and protection, with uses ranging from healing to rainmaking ceremonies. In Greek, its name means "unwetted," a nod to the plant's ability to repel water, symbolising purity and innocence. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (G440, G170, G140, GY172, GY173, RV260, WG01, WG070, RG120, RG030) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (dark green) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

In some cultures, the mushroom has been used in divinatory ceremonies, charms, and even as a remedy for certain ailments. Despite the foul odour which attracts flies and other carrion insects, this mushroom also has other cultural significances that are perhaps fitting for its Latin name which means: ‘wearing an undergarment’.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (E130, E080, Y210, E440, E090, E210) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Arrtx Acrylic Paint Pens (16, 10, 01) - https://amzn.to/3YeeGzm

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (brown) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Queen Anne’s lace is named after Queen Anne of Denmark, wife to King James I. It is said that some of the queen’s friends challenged her to create lace as beautiful as a flower, and while doing so, she pricked her finger and left a drop of blood in the center of the lace.  Because the flower is sometimes referred to as “bishop's flower,” it symbolises safety, sanctuary, and refuge. Although another interpretation is due to the flower's resemblance to a bird's nest when it goes to seed—it then becomes the perfect symbol of a happy home.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (R18, R080, Y010, G080, CGII00, G130) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Golden Fluid Acrylics (Iridescent Gold Deep (Fine) - https://amzn.to/3XJUbKZ

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (yellow) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

The "Jane" magnolia, a cultivar of the 'Little Girl' group, symbolises purity, nobility, perseverance, and dignity, and is often used in floral arrangements. The strength and endurance of magnolia trees have made them a symbol of everlasting connections, making them a popular choice for wedding bouquets. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (E010, R080, WG01, RV260, RV030, R10, RV080, P2, E120) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (purplish red) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

I post step by step photos of the progress of all these fairies, (which are also early access) on the Patreon. If this is something that interests you and you’d like to support my work, you can sign up here.

As promised, here is a little round up of the first prompt week of the #MarchoftheFairies challenge that was created and hosted by the lovely, Casey Robin.

I want to give a mini disclaimer that I’m not fully following the timings of the challenge because it’s just meant to be a little bit of fun on the side, and whilst I need to very carefully and specifically look after my wellbeing, along with do other work things, I have to pay attention when my illnesses are telling me I need to rest, so that I don’t make things a lot harder and worse for myself.

That being said, here is the first week!!

In many cultures, particularly in East Asia, peach blossoms symbolize love, romance, renewal, and longevity. They are often associated with the start of spring and the Lunar New Year, and are used to decorate homes and places of business during these times. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (Y110, YR220, E030, RV010, R242, RV260, R14, R15, V322, V230, R25) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Holbein Artists’ Pastel Colored Pencils (127, 134, 022, 434, 430) -  https://amzn.to/3FD9vmh

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (purplish red, purple) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

In the Victorian language of flowers, nasturtiums symbolize patriotism, heroism, and conquest, and in modern times, they are also associated with joy, creativity, and a happy theme. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (V030, E010, R080, RV010, R21, Y080, Y070, Y130, YR250, YR3, R170, R180) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Holbein Artists’ Pastel Colored Pencils (127, 028, 430) -  https://amzn.to/3FD9vmh

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (orange) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

The Bleeding Heart flower, is often associated with love, sorrow, and compassion, with its heart-shaped flowers and drooping "tears" symbolising deep emotions and unrequited love. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (R10, RV070, RV100, RP1, P1, RV010, E160, E090, YR260, Y010, Y9, P4, GY4, G130) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Faber Castell Polychromo Pencils (9201-125, 9201-133, 9201-103, 9201-166) -  https://amzn.to/41bOjvP

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (red) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

While not ascribed the same historical depth as the ZZ plant or the hibiscus, the Purple Shamrock's symbolism is nonetheless potent. It's a living emblem of heritage, hope, and the human desire for connection.

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (V030, P3, P4, V060, R080, R242, RV010, R110, CGII00, RG030, RG110, CG030, WG4, Y080, CG050, WG090, WG09, 120) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Faber Castell Polychromo Pencils (9201-157, 9201-103, 9201-136, 9201-168, 9201-278, 9201-132, 9201-271, 9201-233) -  https://amzn.to/41bOjvP

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (blue) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Flowering quince, particularly in Asian cultures, symbolizes luck, prosperity, longevity, love, fertility, and renewal, often used in celebrations and art to represent these positive attributes. 

What I used:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (YR3, R070, R3, R180, Y5, R8, YR030, E470, E090, Y3, Y2, YR33, CG020, CG030) - https://amzn.to/3DGrish

Faber Castell Polychromo Pencils (9201-175) -  https://amzn.to/41bOjvP

Ohuhu Colored Fine Line Pens (red) - https://amzn.to/4hEEiwd

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

I do post step by step photos of the progress that are also early access on the Patreon, so if this is something that interests you, you can sign up here.

For those of you who follow my socials, you may have already seen that this project went live on the last day of February, and I can happily say that it was fully funded in 5 1/2 hours!! A record for the Capybaras! It is now in the process of growing further so all backers are able to get the stretch goals, so if you want to definitely be able to get the card deck (because kickstarter is always an all or nothing type of funding), then now is a great time to lock in that backing for yourself too! You can find the Kickstarter here! This is the second time I’ve been part of the Clash of the Capybaras project! The first was with an exclusive run of holographic cards, which are now unfortunately (if you’d like one) sold out! But, for this time, I’ve painted a special tribute to Rees’ beautiful wife who was also a very big part of this project. Yen was a very special person to all those who knew her, but is now sprinkling her stardust and watching over those she loved.

It was extra important to me to make sure to add personal elements into her tribute card, such as the uniquely shaped marital bench and ‘El Gato’ who is a very loved socially adopted kitty who has made the home her own too. The blossom tree is one that is to be planted just in view of the special bench; in her memory. And of course, the capybara self image of her as it was an animal that was very close to the couples heart.

As the coming of spring promises new life, so do the blooming of cherry blossoms bring a sense of vitality and vibrancy. At the same time, their short lifespan is a reminder that life is fleeting, so please, always remember to love your most treasured people in life, just as Rees did (and still does) his ‘wifeybara’.

Japanese people believed cherry blossoms were dwelling places for mountain deities who transformed into the gods of rice paddies. Hence, people would travel to the mountains to worship the trees every spring; farmers would pray, make offerings, and prepare a feast under the cherry blossom trees, believing it would bring an abundant harvest. A fitting tree, as Yen absolutely loved savouring the many flavours of food; and sharing them with her most loved. Apparently, according to my reading, Cherry blossom originated in the Himalayas in China's territory and found their way to Japan in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). ”In memory of those who left us too soon… We remember you in the morning, in the night, when we look at the stars, a song, a place, a smell. You are always with us.”

Here’s a link to all the contributors instagram profiles: @clashofthecapybaras @JoeyMochii @Capytonton @Capybarasatwork @reesytime @parochena @guilhernunes @saracura__ @robdemersart @dafydrobertsillustration @honeysharpart @winstongambro @catersillustration @craighallumsart @_cuddleswithcare_ @pdavis1125 If you’d like to see a little process step with tiny videos I collected and compiled, please watch the video below. I’ll also add the video of the previous card below too for anyone who is curious!

With everything happening in the current space, I’ve taken it upon myself to really re-throw myself back into traditional media AS WELL… just in case, because one of a kind things are… well… one of a kind! Ha! In the midst of all that, I figured I’ll also just be strengthening skills in the process too and I absolutely didn’t do enough traditional things before, because I was mostly trying to save money (decent quality traditional media isn’t the cheapest compared to a practically always available digital canvas). So before I have an existential crisis, it’s better to exhaust all avenues right?

*laughs nervously as I see gov decisions to throw artists to the wolves*…

I’ve never really done many experiments with mixed media either. I used to always focus mostly on one kind of media whenever doing anything, so that’s also pretty new to me. Saying all this, I’ve never really gotten very comfortable using alcohol markers! I’m not sure if it was the bleed that initially put me off, or more than likely, doing things on the wrong kind of paper. Hahaha!

Newbie errors, I’m certain!

Anyway, I really, REALLY want to be able to make things I’m proud of with this medium because it’s really pigmented and maybe somewhere along the way, I’ll also figure out how I can replicate the same sort of paint style that I can do digitally… in traditional, even if it’s needing to use a mix of media (which I’m thinking is probably going to be extremely likely).

Right off the bat, I can absolutely say mixing and blending alcohol markers is something I haven’t gotten comfy with yet.

AT ALL! HAHAHA!

In fact, the reason the above page also has coloured pencils blending things together, is that things were looking really scary at one point and I was just trying to find ways to salvage things. LOL! It’s probably part down to technique and part to do with the fact I don’t think I have shades close enough to each other that they’ll easily transition. In fact, I recently found a hex sheet that shows which colours are needed between other colours in order to make a better transition and which ones will naturally blend well together. - You can find that here because somebody may also find it handy. - Which likely also means it would probably be wise for me to invest in a larger colour palette. Dang you Ohuhu! LOL!

I did also end up using acrylic markers too for a very similar reason as the pencils… I was just trying to save things and make something that looked less scary. Hahaha! The video below will show you the scary moment, so you can get a reference point of what I was dealing with hehe!

In other experiments, I definitely want to limit my palette too, for different developmental reasons, but as you can see above, I used quite a bit, although, I guess not really much when I compare the amount of shades I would have usually used in digital (which has every single colour available to me hahaha - I’m biased toward digital for now and I want to change that - lol).

I wouldn’t say I was really attempting to push myself in terms of facial expressions or poses for this one - I think mostly because I was changing so much and doing a lot of different and unusual for me… in terms of media, that I needed at least one constant; which ended up being your bland and boring, straight facing blank expression. YAY *sarcasm intended* LOL!

If you’re interested in seeing some more step photos etc and generally much earlier posting than anywhere else… I do have the Patreon, which as an artist who is attempting to grow and so on, I feel obligated to share right now. - Yes, this part always makes me feel awkward, please don’t hold it against me and please don’t feel any pressure! It’s just a little extra way to support me if that’s something you’d like to do. <3

Here’s what I used for this one if you happen to be interested:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (Y120, R080, R110, EO50, R120, RV280, RV180, V030, B250) - https://amzn.to/4i1QXu3

Faber Castell Polychromo Pencils (9201-124, 9201-103, 9201-125, 9201-141, 9201-154) - https://amzn.to/41bOjvP

Arrtx Acrylic Markers (99, 23, 41, 48, 16, 01, 32) - https://amzn.to/3CoBvcg

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

*The above links are associate links if you’d like to help me out a little.

Valentine’s Day is a special one for many people, and although I do love to make themed art, I think you definitely don’t need one specific day to tell your loved ones what they mean to you. They should not have the space to even doubt the fact, right?

I think the holiday has pagan origins and became associated with romantic love in the 14th and 15th centuries. Apparently, a Roman priest was secretly marrying couples together and his name was Saint Valentine, so that’s why this day has this name! Scandalous! Hahaha! - We can actually thank the 1840’s for the mass production of cards etc (this is the bit I’m not overly keen on, personally). I think due to the Roman origins and Cupid being the Roman ‘God of Love’, this is why he also became associated with this particular day. Traditions can be fun to look into as sometimes they have very strange reasons behind them, although I guess this one makes sense compared to some of them.

As I mentioned earlier, I do like to create specifically themed art depending on what events are coming up. I think this is just a way for me to motivate myself to actually create something, and it’s fairly easy to find the genre of the specific theme. A little like the monthly social media events that provide prompts to help you decide what it is you are actually going to create, having some personal constrictions can help you against any possible art block that you may experience for whatever reason. Not everyone feels they’re able to take on 30+ day challenges as they may not feel like they have enough time, or maybe they’re not interested in the subject matter, or they’ve previously just finished one… or already done that one, and so it feels somewhat repetitive etc etc. - With upcoming days, such as Valentine’s, it just opens up a little extra choice and variety to the mix; without opening pandoras box of an empty page to stare at with ALL the possible options that can exist for you to create something hahaha! - I think this is what actually creates the art block for some… choice paralysis!

That being said, I decided I wanted to focus on hugging polar bears for a spread within my sketchbook. I mean, they’re so cute!! And at least between each other, show love towards one another (vs eating… which is maybe how they would see you if you wandered upon them whilst they were particularly hungry). I guess there’s also good reason for the origins of the ‘bear hug’. Hehehe!

If you’re interested in adding some polar bears of your own into your sketchbook, here’s what I used for my hugging polar bears:

Ohuhu Honolulu Alcohol Markers (E280, WG050, CG050 - and the 0 colourless blender!) - https://amzn.to/4i1QXu3

Faber Castell Ecco Pigment Fineliner (in 0.1) - https://amzn.to/4aN7oYL

Arrtx Acrylic Markers (White 01 & Red 27) - https://amzn.to/3CoBvcg

Sakura Gelly Roll - https://amzn.to/3EmX8tY

Winsor & Newton Indian Ink (Deep Red) - https://amzn.to/4hH54Vl *the above are affiliate links that help me out if you happen to want anything I’ve used here.

I also made a little short video of some of the process of creating these little babies. I wanted to test some of the Ohuhu alcohol markers a little more - you can find my initial thoughts on those below, but overall, I do like using them.

That’s all from me for today! I hope you all have a wonderful day of love.

Take care,

It’s almost Lunar New Year and I wanted to have something ready for this kind of time as I tend to like coming up with ideas for the Lunar Zodiac! - Mostly because it’s full of animals! - Apparently this year, it starts on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

It tends to be a nice little challenge to try to incorporate some of the cultural elements into each of the pieces I’ve attempted; be that aspects of the particular year - for example… a wooden dragon - or simply what I at least understand is a little more common to stumble upon during that time of year in the cultures that celebrate Lunar New Year.

Now, granted, I am not from these cultures myself, so they are purely from places of research because I’ve been curious, or admired how pretty or beautiful the celebrations are! I’m not trying to appropriate; just admire and be inspired, so I hope it doesn’t come across negatively. - I do always try not to offend anybody when learning about new cultures, but please point anything out if you see something that is meant to celebrate that particular event and instead, offends!! I’m always open to be educated. Especially it is absolutely NOT the intention to hurt anybody.

I initially tried to do a couple years the last 12 year cycle so the bunny on the very right of the set underneath has all sorts of issues (for example that umbrella haha!!), but I hope this 12 year cycle (from the tiger onwards) at least shows a little more understanding for objects hahaha! I think it would be really cool if I can complete all the animals at one point but some years have been better/harder than others and we’re trying this personal challenge again! 4 down, 8 to go! HA! - 2022 to 2033 as I think the next year of the tiger (when I started again) starts in 2034? Is that right?

Below I’ve also added in the related shorts/reels I uploaded around socials just to keep everything somewhat together.

I want to get into the habit of actually updating this blog when I paint/draw new things so it’s actually clear when I’ve updated this website! - Right now, I can add stuff to the gallery and because there’s quite a little bit there, it’s not always obvious that I’ve added something new. Granted, it’s not intended to be a portfolio so much right now, but rather just a big compilation of things I’ve done, as I want to take the time to really develop a much larger personal project to have a portfolio I can be really proud of. - Then I’ll just add a page for that I think…

In terms of updates, overall, I have added a whole bunch of stuff that I haven’t put on here for awhile and tinkered with SEO things and such. - There’s still a few more things to add but I’m getting there slowly. For those of you who require accessible alt text, I’m working on adding this everywhere too, it’s just a lot of images to explain and I’m just a sole person that just needs to get into better habits so things don’t become overwhelming like they are now hahaha! - Little by little, this site will also have everything as fully described as possible in the alt text. - The character limit is not my friend!! I have uploaded the whole timelapse of this painting - as I usually do - to my Patreon for anybody interested. <3

I completely fell in love with this little character the first time I saw him and I think he’s been a little more in the media recently due to being an optional choice on the ‘Marvel Rivals’ game.

I decided that due to everything happening with current GenAi trends, it was time I push myself to sketch a little more in my traditional sketchbook rather than just the doodles I like to do on my iPad in Procreate or Clip Studio Paint. Mainly because there will always be a hard copy original and the choice to choose that (if everything blows up for digital artists), will be there as an option too. For a long time, I was mostly focused on digital painting just due to the fact it was a lot cheaper for me to fail and practice and fail some more, as I learn and develop, without the imminent cost skyrocketing. - Art supplies are not the cheapest, let’s be honest!

Anyway, in terms of development, it definitely doesn’t hurt to re-brush-up (hehe) on the skills that are currently more rusty. - And maybe one day, I can more comfortably make a similar quality painting in traditional media AS WELL as digital. For versatility and all… At the end of the day, the skills needed to go from traditional to digital media and back are similar at least when you look at aspects such as composition, colour and light etc. The brain and eyeballs have at least already been trained in that sense. The rest is more to do with how each particular media behaves in my opinion. And as with everything else… practice makes progress - always.

So, while a lot of the art community are understandably angry about losing their jobs to prompting, their time not being valued, and losing creative identities as well as the obvious annoyance of so much just not being REAL anymore… All that, is not in my control. What is however, in my control, is my ability to attempt to level up and increase versatility; and remember that a lot of job roles & opportunities are more about problem solving than they are totally about artistic skill. Levelling up and creating one of a kinds; original pieces that may be able to be copied, but not with the same value, may at least be appreciated in a world of fakes and replicas. Maybe… - A lot of photography isn’t even distinguishable anymore which is pretty sad when you think about it. What’s real? What isn’t? However, there’s no point in me stressing about what isn’t in my control. You can fight against it, don’t get me wrong… but stress will only usually detriment health to the point where you can’t create anyway. Then who wins? If I’ve learned anything during my time on this little planet, it’s that health is one of the most important things and it is often taken for granted. There’s just no point in inviting things that will make you ill when you can lose your health in an instant. It may not be a way that will eventually be most used, but it will at least develop skills and heart communication that will essentially be missing from prompt creation at least.

If anyone is interested, like I’ve said in the video, the supplies I used were: - Prismacolor Col-Erase in Violet - https://amzn.to/4jtUzWX

- Copic Ciao Alcohol Markers - https://amzn.to/3WuWdOa

- Letraset Alcohol Promarkers (now bought by Winsor & Newton, but my set are olllllld LOL) - https://amzn.to/42ordmN

- Faber Castell Polychromo Coloured Pencils - https://amzn.to/3E3L4h4

- Faber Castell Ecco Pigment Fineliner - https://amzn.to/40xRlJE

- Arrtx Acrylic Markers - https://amzn.to/4jtdpNS *Please be aware that the above include affiliate links if anybody wants these products anyway, and also want a mini way to help me out financially a little too. Artists have to eat and pay bills too so I appreciate anything hahaha!

If you haven’t guessed, I’ve decided to start a blog, mostly so I can chatter and have updates on my own site because relying on tech autocrats feels a bit risky right now! ;D

Thank you for reading!

A set of brushes for Procreate designed to help you plan content or storyboard animations.

You get:

1x 16:9 Horizontal Stamp Brush

1x 16:9 Vertical Stamp Brush

Hope you find them useful!

Please watch the video to see how the brushes work! <3

You can import them into Procreate by dragging and dropping the file into the program.

No thoughts, just pink. 🤣 I’m seeing far too much Barbie stuff in my feeds to not get influenced. 🤣