Summative Statement

I've always strived to be a 'versatile' illustrator with a wide skill set, and a portfolio of work that is adaptable to many different contexts; however I've certainly found that having large ambitions can be extremely overwhelming.

Planning ahead and getting started on projects are the two things that I've struggled with the most in my whole degree, due to the way that my brain is wired to do things in a literal sense with an overdose of perfectionism, and not forgetting my huge lack of confidence. It's taken a while, but I think that I've finally learnt to tame this beast and trust my instincts, eradicating most of the negative traps associated with creative practice that I have fallen into. As a result, I believe that I have really found my feet working in a mixed media layered format with gestural and expressive  line work, that portrays a documentary and emotive tone of voice.
I've arrived at this point through investing time into the enjoyment of areas that are of interest to me, which in particular has been people and places. 

Although I feel like I've been running on empty and dragging myself through numerous creative blocks this year, I've produced some work that I am actually really proud of. Looking back at my progression and development, I feel that this year I have made a positive step forward out of my closed and confined art school sketchbook into the professional realm that is the creative industry. This time three years ago I never would have envisioned winning a competition and having a mural that I designed printed in a hotel reception and being published in a magazine and a colouring book! 
I aspire to continue engaging with public art projects and local organisations that allow me to produce illustrations that can help and inspire people for good causes, as well as continue developing and expanding my personal interests through illustration. 

I remember my first day at college, when Fred told us all that "we will take your life away from you, and give you back a better one in three years", and now I can finally say that I agree with that and see myself as an illustrator, not just someone who loves drawing.