Can You Quit Drawing for Good? Embracing Your Passion Through Comic Strips

Many of us hold at least one cherished hobby that we feel passionately about. For some, drawing is that special something, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading us to consider giving it up for a more career-focused path. In this article, we explore how you can take a different path to fulfillment by embracing your drawing passion through comic strips. Whether you've already tried to quit drawing or are currently struggling with the decision, this piece aims to inspire you to keep your creative spark alive.

Why Quitting Drawing Can Be a Mistake

The idea of quitting a beloved hobby like drawing can be daunting. Drawing, or any art form, can be a crucial outlet for self-expression and stress relief. By quitting, you risk losing a part of your identity that has likely brought you joy and fulfillment. So, why stifle something you're passionate about? Perhaps you are meant to be in graphic design or explore other artistic avenues further. Drawing, and specifically comic strips, have much more to offer than just the physical act of creating.

Exploring the World of Comic Strips

Comic strips are a unique form of storytelling that combines art and narrative in a concise and engaging way. They can be your platform to express yourself, share your experiences, or even fictional stories. You don't need to be a professional writer or artist to start creating your own comic strip. Here are a few tips and ideas to get you started:

Create a Personal Comic Strip: You can base your comic strip on your own life, your experiences, or even your challenges. This can be a great way to express your thoughts and feelings in a visual format. Explore Autobiographical Elements: Your comic strip can be a mix of autobiography and fiction, allowing you to combine personal stories with creative narrative. Find Inspiration in Daily Life: Drawing comics doesn't always need to be about heroes or adventures. Everyday situations and simple characters can make for compelling stories too.

Personal Experience: From Comic Books to Comic Strips

Over the years, I've gone through several phases with drawing. I used to draw comic books, even felt burned out from it at one point. I would draw constantly, sometimes until I ran out of ideas. Then, I shifted my focus to figure and still-life drawing classes but eventually got tired of that too.

One fateful day, I decided to take a different approach and started drawing my own comic strip. With just a pencil, a pen brush, and a bottle of India ink, I began creating on white tag paper. It required a lot of erasing, but the process was incredibly rewarding. Over time, my comic strip evolved into a form of therapy and self-expression.

The Balance Between Career and Creative Expression

As I delved deeper into my comic strip, I realized that it wasn't just about the art; it was about the storytelling too. Writing and illustrating comic strips demanded a great deal of time and effort, but the storytelling aspect was the core of what I loved about it. A good story can bring characters and scenes to life, making the entire project more engaging and meaningful.

In fact, after two years of creating my comic strip, I consider it my 'Plan B.' While I don't see myself quitting it, it serves as a valuable part of my creative journey. My 'Plan A' is my day job, but I always make time for my comic strip. If I can enjoy something and continue to develop it without putting too much pressure on myself, it’s a win-win situation.

Starting Over or Taking a Break

But what if the actual elements you dislike in your current drawing are the comic strips? In that case, it might be time to start over, either by reimagining your existing comic strip or creating an entirely new one. This can be liberating and allow you to explore new ideas and themes. Alternatively, if you've had enough of the drawing process for a while, consider taking a break from it to focus on your career. Remember, creativity can be challenging, and it’s okay to take breaks when needed.

In conclusion, while quitting your only hobby might seem like an easy solution, it can often lead to a loss of identity and fulfillment. Instead, consider embracing your passion for drawing through the medium of comic strips. Whether you keep your comic strip as a side project or focus on it more intensely, it can be a powerful tool for self-expression and creative satisfaction. So, don't worry about quitting drawing for good—just take a different path and see where it leads you.