First piece of 2023 is in the bag! I was inspired by an artist in my studio to do a portrait study. This was a charcoal drawing of Willem Dafoe, with a few digital tweaks to improve the likeness.

It's been frustrating and wonderful returning to traditional media. The more I see of AI art and other so-called-innovations, the more I crave the physical relationship to my art. Paint fumes, charcoal stained nails, creative clutter—it just feels right.

As I look forward into this year, there's a new excitement I feel, not in taking on bigger projects, but in delving into simplicity and exploration. To focus on the process, rather than the products of my practice. I'm thankful for this better way the Lord is helping me discover. Here's to a new, great year!