“Let’s Get Wild” is part of a series that I created for an upcoming show. Each piece began with a short phrase written on paper in a somewhat random formation. Then, I dug into the comically large pile of used Sakura Micron Pigma 005 pens on my desk, and I proceeded to surround the words with natural imagery.

I wasn’t overly concerned with precision. I actually like that the used pens bleed more onto the paper, giving this series a bold look that’s reminiscent of woodblock or linoleum prints. The drawings are intentionally playful, primitive, and childish, creating a scattered wonderland for the viewer to explore.

As I’ve continued this process, there has become a common “language” for certain things—trees, leaves, branches, water, wind, clouds, and various creatures of the wilderness. Despite this, each piece has been an individual journey, like hiking on the same trail and noticing something new each time.

Eventually, I needed to add some borders to keep all of this sprawling nature contained. I had a few loose mats sitting around the studio, so I tested out different sizes and decided on 5 x 7 inches for the final piece. After penciling in the borders, there was an internal debate about whether to fill the entire space. I opted to do so, and I am pleased with the final results.

From there, I erased the pencil lines, scanned the piece, and edited the digital version for prints. All around, this piece took several days to finish, but I will confess that I succumbed to many distractions along the way.

Once completed and framed, this piece was displayed in Confluence Gallery’s exhibition "Treespeak” from July 25 - August 29.