My Visual Artist Journey: From Childhood Dreams to Living Artist

My Visual Artist Journey: From Childhood Dreams to Living Art

What does it mean when a visual artist realizes they're living the exact dream they painted in their mind as a child?

Last month, I was cleaning out my old art room when I found a crumpled paper from third grade. On it, I'd written: "When I grow up, I want to be an artist and teach people about art." My hands trembled. Because here I am at 31, doing exactly that—but it took me years to even notice.

A Moment of Realization

So, growing up between Florida and Nebraska, I was that kid who drew on everything. Homework assignments, napkins, even my bedroom wall (sorry, Mom). But being a visual artist felt like wanting to be a fairy or something magical, impossible, not a "real job."

However, something shifted when I turned 27. I was sitting in my apartment, surrounded by half-finished pen and ink drawings, when it hit me. I wasn't trying to be an artist or dreaming to be an artist anymore. I already was one.

In fact, I'd been living as a professional artist for years without acknowledging it. Was a rich artist, nope but I did make money here and there with my art. Lived in an artist residency after high school? That happened. The many art festivals and booth setups? Did those too. Sold over 2,000 merchandise with my art from art prints to graphic t-shirts with my artwork online. Yep, I did a lot... but still not enough to be full time as a visual artist

The creative process is always therapeutic. Making artwork is similar to creating music. Whether it is the written part or the beat production, I can see why music itself is a form of art. And, when it comes to visual art, there is no limit to what you can do visually. With tools like Photoshop in the current day and age, your imagination is the only thing that limits you.

The Artist with the Art Over the Years

The Reality of Visual Arts Today

I thought being an artist meant:

• Painting in an art studio
• Gallery openings with your art
• Wearing a beret (seriously, I bought one)
• Creating only when "inspired" - I always created.

But my actual artist inspo comes from:

• Drawing at 2 AM because that's when the house is quiet
• Creating art between client projects.
• Finding artistic inspiration at the local art museum.
• Creating almost any creative thought that comes to mind.

My Portrait Illustration of Rihanna

My Visual Art Stories

From Traditional to Digital Artist

Looking at my visual artist portfolio now versus ten years ago feels like meeting two different people. My early work was all traditional—pencil sketches, charcoal portraits, anything I could create with my hands.

But then digital tools entered my world. Suddenly, as a digital artist, I could manifest visions that lived only in my imagination. Photoshop became my second language. My pen tablet felt like an extension of my arm.

Finding My Voice as an Illustration Artist

So, I merged both worlds. Now I create pen and ink drawings by hand, then enhance them digitally sometimes. Each piece starts with actual ink on paper—no AI, no shortcuts, just me and the drawing.

This combination lets me be both a drawing artist and digital creator. Moreover, it connects me to the ancestral tradition of mark-making while embracing modern possibilities.

The Therapeutic Power of Creating

Sometimes people ask about my creative process, expecting some mystical ritual breakdown.

In reality, making art for me is like breathing—necessary, natural, sometimes challenging,  but always essential. I was born to create; my life purpose is to be an artist.

Why Art Life Transforms You

When I'm creating:

• Time disappears completely
• Anxiety melts into focused flow
• Problems become possibilities
• Silence is a companion in creation
• Connection happens without words

Secondly, there's something about line work that captures pure emotion. Quick strokes hold urgency and passion. Deliberate lines reflect contemplation. Each mark tells part of the story.

The Art Style I Used to Create

The Style I Create Today - Primarily Pen and Ink Drawings

Become an Obsessed Artist (The Good Kind)

There's healthy obsession—the kind that fuels greatness. When you be an artist fully, obsession becomes dedication.

I'm obsessed with:

• Capturing emotion through simple lines
• Celebrating art for black culture because of the lack of major representation
• Making art accessible to everyone
• Creating pieces that start conversations
• Preserving cultural symbols and capturing beauty

This obsession drives me to create daily. Not because I have to, but because not creating feels like holding my breath.

The Business of Being a Portrait Artist

Let's be real—passion doesn't pay rent. But turning art into sustainable income? Absolutely possible. On my website you will find the following, which are ways you can support me as an artist. However, if you are also an artist you can do the same with the following.

• Art prints: Accessible price points, unlimited sales
• Merchandise: Art t-shirts, mugs, sweatshirts with my designs
• Commission digital portraits: Personal connection, premium pricing

Because of the merchandise and art prints I sell, my art reaches people who might never see my work at a local art gallery.

Living Your Artistic Dreams

You might be reading this thinking about your own dreams. Maybe you're already living them without realizing it, like I was.

Signs You're Already There

• You create regularly (even if not daily)
• People know you as "the artist"
• Your work exists beyond your sketchbook
• Someone, somewhere owns your art
• You think in visual terms
• Creating feels necessary, not optional

Therefore, if any of these resonate, congratulations—you're already an artist. The only question is: will you claim it?

Your Journey Starts Now

Living as a visual artist isn't about perfection. It's about persistence, passion, and showing up even when inspiration doesn't.

My childhood self would be amazed. Not because I'm famous or rich, but because I'm doing exactly what I said I would—creating art, sharing stories, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

So here's my challenge: Stop waiting for permission. Stop thinking you need a certain degree, studio, or following. Start creating. Start sharing. Start living your artist life today.

Because truly, the world needs your unique vision. Your perspective matters. Your art matters. You matter.

To Support Me as An Artist