Playful Aspirations
Jamesville, NY
When my first-born child turned 18 months old, I was searching for a wholesome activity to do with him. It was around this time that I realized all my entertainment was on a screen. I was a big gamer and consumed too much pop culture. This was not the example I wanted to set for him. So, I bought an adult coloring book to work on while he scribbled in his own book.
As an engineer, who choose band over art in school, I had no experience with art at all. However, I soon learned that I loved transforming a white page into a colorful illustration. I began coloring at moments of peace in an otherwise chaotic life as a new parent.
My journey didn't end there. By the time my firstborn turned 6, and his younger brother was three, my skills had grown. At this time, I completed a coloring page after months of work, and while looking at the result, I thought to myself, "I need to make my own work". The portrait staring back at me was colored excellently. At this point, I started illustrating my own pieces and I made pieces that really spoke to me.
Sometimes, as a parent, I struggle. I sacrifice so much of my time and energy for my kids. I have moved away from skiing and other outdoor adventures to care for them. Often, I miss those adventures. My own art pieces are fantasies of skiing and biking that I yearn for. They allow me to hang on to that part of myself when it is suspended for childcare. Having these scenes illustrated is a reminder of adventures I had and a promise for future adventures that I can have with my boys once they get older.
It has been so rewarding to start an analog hobby with my son, grow in skill, and tie it to my interests. In a digital age, taking the time to step away from the screen and patiently develop a new skill has provided me more happiness than the latest videogames. It has given me confidence and reminded me that I can learn new things.