Word.A.Day
365-day project
This year-long project challenged me to create a new 6x9" pen and ink illustration every day, using the word of the day to inspire the content. It was an exercise to free the imagination to create authentic art.
Deliverables:
350 pen & ink full spread, half page and spot illustrations
Outcome:
Improved drawing skills, developed discipline for my craft, rejuvenated imagination, and even had a solo exhibition of the illustrations.
STRATEGY + APPROACH
It started with the word a day from dictionary.com, and then I had an app that pulled the daily word from 5 different sources. With a new word every day, I would create a 6x9 inch pen and ink illustration, using the first ideas and concepts that came to front of mind with the word and definition. There was no time to discard or dismiss ideas, so this became an exercise for my mind to make spontaneous connections.
I typically completed an illustration, first sketching it out, inking the outlines, and then refining it with ink wash and brush, within an hour.
To facilitate the process, I prepped the bristol ahead of time, cutting the paper to size and taping the edges in advance. I kept all my tools in a pouch for quick access and ease of travel.
WHAT HAPPENED?
I not only improved my drawing skills through this daily exercise, but my social media platform grew throughout this project, I was invited to have a solo art show, and more than half of the 365 illustrations sold.
THE OUTCOME?
I ended up with over 365 pen and ink illustrations, many of which became the impetus for my paintings and still do today.