When folks ask “what is your favorite illustration you've ever made?” I say, “the one I’m working on right now.” which is an answer that, frankly, no one likes, but is really true! /1

Usually while I am making a drawing, I’m totally smitten with its potential. I work hard to make the drawing/idea live up to that imagined possibility. Now, don’t get me wrong- I often dislike my work in the end, (or at least, I easily obsess over its shortcomings). /2

But, I think many healthy artists practice this kind of 'suspension-of-disbelief' with every new drawing. You kindle a thought in your head that: “This could be great!” /3

Chasing that belief is part of art making. I don't see how you start a new drawing (over and over) if you can't shut out all the bad drawings that came before. This isn't ego, but a necessity to push through the struggles that come with realizing an idea. /4

This practice is vital, ESPECIALLY when things go wrong. When the final art is not what you imagined, it is in *that moment* you need a hope that next time it could be great, or perhaps the best thing you've ever made. /5

I find this balance of reckless optimism, held in tension w/ seeing your work for what it is to be vital. But, it takes practice and cultivation. It is why I think school is still so vital to a young artist's development. We need others to help us see our work clearly. /6