With much support from my parents I was able to graduate from the High-school of Art and Design. Looking back this was both a blessing and curse; on one hand I was constantly inspired by my fellow students, and learned much about art theory and principles. On the other hand, my own ego constantly berated my artistic ability/vision and deemed me unworthy of the pencil or pen. This was a recurring theme, which shortly after graduating high-school, led me to quit art.

 

Of course all paths in one's life intertwine and reflect each other, my path away from art led me right back. I realized I couldn't stop doodling or keeping up with a sketchbook if I tried. Though I still attempted to downplay how important my desire for self-expression was, so I pursued a career as a software developer, chased lovers, and adopted an attitude of work hard - play harder. Eventually I became the very proud (still proud) father to my little girl.

 

It took me doing well as a senior software developer, it took me constantly fighting my passion for art, it took me teaching my daughter to pursue her own dreams -  it took me getting chronic migraines; to confront my by then draconic fears and feelings of unworthiness. Then like some valiant knight armed with only faith as both his armor and weapon, I fought to accept who I was, and what I wanted.

 

It was a year of fighting, and in the end I won. I quit my job and gave myself space to create, while showing my daughter - we can achieve our dreams.