There are so many different mediums for artistic expression, it's hard not to dabble in each one to see what works best for me. Hands down, pen and ink will always be the champ. But I've also ventured into colored pencil, acrylic paints, cake decorating (long history of that with mom), sculpting and, as most know, a little tattooing.
Recently I interviewed "Red" Hughes, a local tat artist. Red is as talented and amiable as he is big and, well, red (beard and muttonchops for days, y'all). Like me, once Red starts talking about his art, his craft, he gets on a roll.
I think that's a common trait among artists. Even the quiet ones. Probably true of anyone with a passion for something.
I find myself easily becoming a friend of Red, his shop and its denizens.
But it's surreal for me at the same time. I've always felt pretty alone in my art. I dive in and get lost in an ocean of ink and thoughts. To be around other artists is both a perfect fit and new, unsure ground.
For now I'll just enjoy the fellowship and laughter.