Here are some paintings/ drawings I did between 2009 and 2010 for my Melancholy collection. It was one of my favourite collections; dedicated to a close friend I lost to a car accident 12 years ago. Although I try to create only happy drawings now, sometimes I do missed painting melancholy art as it allows me a space to express and release any sadness.
Trapped (ink)
A Letter For You (ink)
To Where You Are (watercolour)
Waiting Forever (ink)
My Wishes For You (watercolour)
Awaken Love (watercolour)
Waiting For A Call From Heaven (watercolour)
Awaken Love (ink)
A Little Too Late (ink)
I had my first real art lesson when I was about 9. My parents signed me up for weekly art classes at some community centre because they couldn't afford piano lessons (something I'd also love) back then. So that was where I learned to draw/ paint with different mediums - mainly pencils, crayons and watercolour. I stopped at acrylic painting when I was about 13 and got busy with school life. Anyway long story short, years later, I caved in to peer pressure's 'art degree will get you nowhere', 'you can't make a decent living making art' perception and chose fashion design over fine arts course. The big irony? That's exactly what I'm doing now - making a living with my art.
Admittedly I still can't draw human figures in the correct proportions; I can't draw fingers and toes, my perspective and shadowing is terrible. Ha! But that doesn't stop me from drawing. And yes, I still dream to become a picture book illustrator someday.
'The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams'. -Oprah Winfrey
PS: Prints of these paintings/ drawings are available on Etsy, www.etsy.com/shop/dollgift.
Merchandise such as totebags, phone case, pillows etc, are also available on Redbubble, www.redbubble.com/people/dollgiftbyrheea/shop (I'm in the midst of getting the entire collection on Redbubble, do check back soon!
❤ Blessings, Rheea