Why I Believe Every Artist Should Start With Drawing

I’ve always believed that every artist, no matter their preferred medium or style, benefits from learning the fundamentals of drawing. Abstract artists might disagree — and that’s perfectly fine — but for generations, a solid artistic foundation began with pencil or charcoal in hand. There’s something about drawing that teaches you to truly see: to understand light and shadow, form, texture, and the subtle transitions that give an object life on a flat surface.

That’s exactly how my own journey began more than ten years ago, when I finally decided to pursue my long-held dream of becoming an artist. At the time, I was captivated by the precision and beauty of hyperrealistic pencil drawings. The idea that a simple graphite pencil could create something so refined, so detailed, so alive absolutely fascinated me. Naturally, I wanted to learn how to do the same.

So I practiced — obsessively at times — pushing myself to capture every highlight, every shadow, every delicate nuance. And eventually, all that focus and determination led me to a piece that still means more to me than almost anything I’ve created since.

In 2017, I completed Alter Ego, a graphite pencil drawing measuring 24” x 32”. It represents not just the technical skills I had worked so hard to develop, but also the personal transformation I was undergoing as I stepped into the identity of “artist.” The piece went on to win several awards, which was both validating and deeply humbling. But despite its success, it has never left my home. It still hangs on my wall, a reminder of where I started and how far I’ve come.

Will I ever sell it? Probably not. And honestly, that’s all right. Some artworks are meant to be shared with the world, and some are meant to stay close — to remind us of our roots, our growth, and the moments that made us believe in ourselves.

For me, Alter Ego will always be that piece.