As the years have passed, you’ve begun to form a mental image of yourself, of who you are, who you want to be, and where you want to go. But, all you’ve done all day is study, study and study some more for school. Now that a global pandemic has hit our Earth, you’ve suddenly been given so much more freetime, and believe it’s time to pick up a hobby, something to do to extend yourself and who you are.

But, now you’re faced with a problem: Which hobby is best?

Well, let me tell you, it’s digital art!

Now, you may be wondering, what can digital art offer you? Well, to start it’s a great platform to meet people, an exceptional way to challenge yourself, and is a skill which can open up to many opportunities in the future.

Through digital art, you’ll discover for yourself that there are so many social media platforms where you can meet new people and friends. Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Twitch, and even Tiktok, are just a few of the many places to meet new people who share your interests and passions.

In fact, that’s precisely what I do. For many years now, I’ve loved to draw. I’ve always loved to share my artworks and creations with my peers, family, and friends, and would post my pieces onto small websites such as PaigeeWorld or Deviantart. However, just last year due to covid-19, I had leagues more freetime and finally got around to setting up my Instagram page, which soon led to my Twitter. Ever since then I’ve grown and maintained these accounts of mine, and over the past few months I’ve garnered about 1.3 thousand followers on instagram, and surprisingly enough, 11.9 thousand followers on twitter! All of which have come from simply sharing my artwork and passions to the world.

Of course, it’s not just the number of followers, but the community I’ve encountered through my art which means the most.

Just recently I’ve launched my carrd.co page, where I’ve started to take art commissions. I’ve already received over 15 personalized orders, and have a waitlist set up for others who have an interest in commissioning me. Additionally, although I never had an interest in youtube beforehand, thanks to the support I received on Twitter, I launched my very own channel just last weekend! Although I’ve only uploaded a single, short 5 minute speedpaint on my channel, I’ve already garnered 100 subscribers.

One of my absolute favorite things which have come about through my journey online, are the people I’ve met. There are hundreds of people who have discovered my social pages through my art, and have been inspired by me. I’ve received countless DMs from people all over the world who have shared with me the happiness and inspiration they’ve gained from seeing my artworks online, and such messages have always made me feel so incredibly happy.

Not only is digital art a great way to meet people, but it’s also a hobby which allows you to challenge yourself, learn, and practice; all at your own pace.

Don’t know where to start? There are so many resources online where you can learn and teach yourself. Youtube, tutorial websites, even sites such as twitter or instagram are abundant with artists sharing their story and path to learn.

Personally, I love to study and learn from other artists who I adore. This is a quick look into some of the background research I do for my artworks; Each piece of mine, although may depict only one scene with a singular character, comes with a behind the scenes containing hundreds of references, study boards, and inspirations all collaged together. There’s a great sense of fulfilment you can gain from studying and developing something you truly care about.

Nevertheless, there are some who may look at all of this “work” and claim it is all just studying. Because honestly, if you’re looking for an easy hobby with little time involved, digital art may not be the hobby for you. Afterall what’s the point of a hobby if all you’re doing is studying! Isn’t that just school all over again?

You can see it like that, but I see it differently. There are no due dates, and no pressure in digital art. You can learn, study, and devote yourself at your own pace. It’s not just studying, it’s a passion project. It’s healthy to allow yourself something of your own to study and learn separate from the heavy deadlines of school. Centering yourself and allowing yourself to focus on something else, something completely unattached from school, can prove to be incredibly uplifting.

Digital art sounds pretty great so far doesn’t it? I’m glad to tell you that, it doesn’t stop there. Through digital art, not only will you develop your personal creativity, but you’ll also learn hundreds of new skills along the way which can help you in the future.

WHY is digital art useful in today’s time? 

Like mentioned before, social media is becoming so much more popular and prevalent in today’s time. And one of the best ways to learn to navigate it, can come from sharing yourself through your passion online.

WHY is digital art the most convenient hobby?

All you need is a phone, tablet, laptop, and some time to get started. Heck, there are so many incredible artists who draw directly onto their phone with just their finger! There are people who draw with just a mouse too! Although it can be beneficial to invest in some equipment, such as a drawing tablet (which you can buy for under $100 to start off), digital art is accessible to pretty much anyone who wants to commit. Even better, you can learn and do everything all from within the comfort of your safe space. There’s a pandemic going on right now? Well, you can stay inside, social distance, and draw! 

Why is it important to start NOW?

Everybody starts somewhere, and the sooner you start the sooner your journey will begin. With time, you will be able to improve your skills tremendously. And it’s always so satisfying to flip through old sketchbooks, or files, and see how you’ve progressed throughout the years. Heck, my artstyle from last year is barely recognizable anymore with how it is nowadays! Back then, although it wasn’t bad, my pieces were very simplistic in shading, backgrounds, composition, and general pose. But, just a year later, I’ve come a long way. I’ve learned much more than just people, branching out to draw scenic views and animals, as well as learned to dabble into lighting, composition, and much more complex backgrounds.

In conclusion, Digital art is THE BEST hobby.