Artist First

The first half of 2025 is almost over, let me share a few of my learnings these past few months. 🙏

Get Back on Track

Healthy consistency is something I need to improve on. I thrive in having something to look forward to. If I have 3 or 4 illustrations planned for a “series”, I normally anticipate completing it. I think that’s one of the things that help me make more, build more, and draw more. But sometimes I pressure myself into being consistent, like wanting to post something every week so that I feel like I have accomplished something. Sometimes I get pressured to finish an artwork immediately so I could share to a friend. 😂

For about a week or two, I did not spend time doing art-related activities to focus on other things. My breaks were mostly playing mobile games and binge-watching animè series. I need to balance my time and energy between my interests to keep things healthy and so I don't get burned out.

Here some of the things that helped me get back on track:

• Remembering to be an artist first. This removes all kinds of pressure to make things "right" for my posts. For example, instead of taking pictures/videos of each step of the avocado sticker building, I took notes of which parts I should get a footage of. In this way, I can enjoy the build more, but it also allows me to enjoy the video editing as a separate creative activity. If something hinders me from enjoying and immersing into what I'm doing, then I should get rid of it.
• I feel like I should post in a certain schedule. Consistency does not mean I need to share what I'm doing all the time. What matters is that I am working on something regardless if anybody sees it.
• Some things just take time. I can't do what other artists do when they paint a beautiful scene in under an hour. It takes me days. I redo if something does not feel right. Again, there is no schedule for creativity. I'm not bound by a client contract.
• Move forward. I don't need to redo all posts I've written because I have a new style. I will set down the parameters instead for new things moving forward.
• Retrospectives. Yes, I applied this thing in my mini studio life, and it was worth it. I became more aware and more grateful about my progress. 🌳

Investing in Tools and Platforms

I enjoy making videos although right now I have storage issues and my setup is fairly limited. 🤣 I am at the mercy of the sun for my lighting. 🌞

Procreate Dreams

I bought Procreate Dreams. I have not fully utilized the app. So far I have only used it to paint simple, animated drawings and overlays on top of videos.

Epidemic Sound

Got an annual subscription to Epidemic Sound. I like not having to think of possible copyright issues when using music. They also offer an easy way to make looping music out of preferred sections of a song. 🎶 Very convenient!

Disclaimer: The Epidemic Sound link is a referral link. For every new paying user I bring in, I'll get one month free subscription if under my plan.

Finding the Right People

Sometimes people are not as invested in what you want to do, or there will be setbacks in your original plans. Don't expect that much. Find the right people. I let go of anything that does not help me grow, but bring in something new that will take me a step forward into reaching my goals.

Stationery Stash Refresh

So now let me share my last haul this June. ☺️

Additions to my sticker stash! Visited KKV's Mall of Asia branch. They carry stickers, building bricks sets, kawaii figures, and more. ♥️

• Kirakoko sticker (with gold foil edges)
• Cardlover masking tape M-D2877G
• Maltese "Greeting Puppy" fridge magnet
• Cardlover Caramel Melody stickers (thin and paper-like)
• KKV banana cartoon fruit fridge magnet
• Mr. Paper Cat's Planet sticker tape

I was checking out the Le Petit Prince rose brick set and the Rolife sets. I'll get them next time! hehe Also, KKV has bigger branches in other places like in SM Southmall. Worth a visit to see more stuff to buy 🤣

I also got the following from online stationery shops in Lazada. Most of these came from overseas (China) so they took two weeks to be delivered. I was not in a hurry though.

• Meow Star Attack Series clear stamps
• Golden-foiled washi tapes set (36 rolls)
• Walking in the Sunshine Series Muguang washi tape
• Let's Color premium pigment inkpads
• Telado Cute Girl Going to School craft tape

I wishhheed I had the Telado tape while studying for my certification!! But I can always backdate my stickers 😂 Also I need continuing education credits so yes I will still be able to use them 🧸

And that was my art journey so far. God is good. 🙏 On to more illustrations and puzzles for the rest of the year. 💪