From Novice to Pro: My Journey in Artwork Creation

These days, gift artwork for newly married couples or any special occasion has become a popular trend. Fueled by this trend, I decided to create an artwork for my sister and Jiju. However, the high price tag of ready-made pieces forced me to think of a do-it-yourself approach. This is how I embarked on my first personal artwork project, a journey that has been both challenging and rewarding.

My First Attempt: A Do-It-Yourself Project

After calculating the cost, I realized that creating a custom piece would not break the bank. Sparks of creativity illuminated my mind, and I decided to give it a shot. The result, though not professional, was the beginning of a beautiful journey. Completing this piece took me 4 hours from start to finish, a testament to how much I have grown both as an artist and a person.

A Personal Touch: My Favourite Artwork - A Renaissance in Woodcut Art

One of my most cherished projects is a woodcut piece I remade in 2021, a 2021 remake of my very first woodcut from 2015 when I was in Year 7. My journey in art started then, and I didn't yet know the nuances of woodcuts. I used a simple image I sketched myself and learned the basics of carving with a woodcut carving knife. The original piece, while an early attempt, lacked precision and detail.

Improvement and Reflection: From Year 7 to Year 13

As I entered my senior year in high school (Year 13), I revisited my first woodcut and felt the urge to recreate it with my current skills and artistic expression. The 2021 remake was a significant improvement over the original. The first woodcut took months and was difficult to create due to limited time and resources. My current piece, however, took only 2-3 days of spare time and was remarkably easier to complete. My improvement in art has been substantial over these years.

Back then, I lacked experience and proficiency in art. The original took between 4-8 weeks to complete, and I was only taking Art once a week. I was slower and less skilled in woodcutting and had to share a printing press with my classmates. The process was time-consuming, and I learned a lot along the way. Now, as I have become more proficient in Woodcuts, I feel more confident and skilled.

Creating artwork on your own can be a transformative experience. It's not just about the finished piece but also about the journey you go through to create it. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, every step of the process can teach you something new. Keep experimenting, make mistakes, and enjoy the journey.