Old art

There's something incredibly special about digging through old sketchbooks and finding pieces you created 'on this day' or around a specific date, like December 19, 2023. It’s like opening a time capsule of your own creative journey! I recently did just that, and it really sparked some new ideas for my current projects. When I look at my 'past art,' I don't just see finished drawings; I see the moments, the techniques I was exploring, and even the emotions I was feeling at that time. It's truly fascinating to witness the evolution of my style and skills. Sometimes, I find a piece that might not have been perfect, but it contained a germ of an idea or a unique perspective that I can now refine with my current abilities. For anyone feeling a creative block, I highly recommend this exercise. Here's why revisiting your old art can be a game-changer and how you can make the most of it: 1. Track Your Progress: It's easy to feel like you're not improving, but looking at older pieces provides undeniable proof of your growth. You'll notice subtle changes in line quality, composition, color choices, or how you tackle challenging subjects like perspective. This can be a huge confidence booster! 2. Find Hidden Gems: Sometimes, a quick sketch or an unfinished idea from years ago can suddenly click. That 'past art' that didn't feel right at the time might now be the perfect starting point for a new, exciting piece. Maybe it's a character design, a landscape concept, or an abstract pattern you'd forgotten about. 3. Revisit Forgotten Techniques: We all go through phases with our art. You might have experimented with a particular medium or technique years ago that you've since abandoned. Looking back might remind you of a fun way to draw or paint that you could reincorporate into your current workflow, or even try with a fresh approach. 4. Gain New Perspective (Literally!): Just like I mentioned about wanting to do 'another perspective like this one,' old drawings can inspire new ways of seeing. Perhaps you drew a scene from a certain angle, and now you can imagine it from above, below, or from a character's point of view. It challenges you to push boundaries. 5. Connect with Your Artistic Past: It’s a wonderful way to understand where you came from as an artist. What were your inspirations? What challenges were you facing? This self-reflection can be incredibly grounding and motivate you to keep exploring. So, next time you're feeling uninspired, don't just stare at a blank page. Go back through your old sketchbooks, digital files, or even old school assignments. You might be surprised by the wealth of inspiration waiting for you in your very own 'past art' collection. It's a journey of rediscovery that truly fuels creativity!