As an urban sketch artist, my goal when visiting a new location is to extract all the memories, stories, and history that I can and let them flow through my pen as I draw them. The world around us is constantly changing and expands whenever we take the initiative to make meaningful decisions. Most of what we see was created by either the hands or mind of a fellow human, and takes on a different form when inspected for it's value beyond simply being an object. The evolution of architecture, societies and beliefs, are present in all we see but it's up to us to unlock them and adapt them to our own desires of leaving something behind. My work is made under these foundations and as I approach locations to paint or draw, I keep in mind that these are reflections of the time they were a part of. Just as easily as an earthquake can shatter apart a village, the passage of time can alter surroundings. I connect myself with the present, past and future by choosing to be an urban sketch artist.
While these all seem like intense thoughts to think about prior to working, It helps me establish a firm purpose. Having a strong purpose to your art is as important as making it, as you can lose track of why you even make art to begin with. While a pretty picture is what I am to accomplish at the end of a session, I think about how my purpose interacts with the process. This is something I learned by following the influences in my presentation. They too strive to make beautiful art, but recognize that this is nothing new. Being present matters for these artists as much as it matters to me. Regardless of the end result, it is similar to the graffiti artist's idea of "tagging"; letting others know that you were here and left a mark that showcases who you are.
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