Art as a Reflection of Growth: Comparing My Early Work to Now
Over the past seven years, my creative journey has evolved in powerful ways. What started as a return to painting and pyrography has grown into a deeper, more intentional practice. I’ve pushed myself with new tools, techniques, and materials—each change reflecting how far I’ve come. Today, I want to share a few key shifts that have taken my work from beginner to professional, and how they’ve helped me develop both as an artist and a person.
Painting the Sides: A Small Change with Big Impact
One of the simplest but most transformative changes I’ve made is painting the edges of my canvases. I used to leave them raw, but now I see that finishing the sides brings a polished, gallery-ready look. It makes each piece feel complete—like it’s meant to stand on its own without a frame.
Upgrading from thin, entry-level canvases to 1.5" gallery-wrapped panels added to this effect. Painting those deeper sides adds subtle dimensionality and professionalism. It’s a small detail many skip—but when you’re creating work to sell or display, it really matters.
Adding Texture with Modeling Paste
One of my favorite upgrades has been incorporating modeling paste into the prep process. While I’ve always used gesso to smooth the surface, modeling paste brings energy and texture before I even start painting.
For my latest piece, I used over a pound and a half of it, and the result was dynamic and tactile even before the first drop of paint. It helps my work stand out in an increasingly digital world—and reminds people that they’re looking at something handcrafted and physical.
Modeling paste isn’t always easy to control, but that’s part of the magic. It invites spontaneity and surprise. I’m just scratching the surface of what’s possible with this medium, and I’m excited to keep exploring it as a signature part of my process.
Stepping Up with Specialty Paints
Another major upgrade: color experimentation. I’ve been diving into iridescent, neon, and UV-reactive paints to breathe new life into my palette.
These paints offer something extra—shine, shimmer, glow—that changes depending on lighting. Under blacklight, they transform. In daylight, they gleam. They’re trickier to apply and often need more layers, but the results are worth the effort.
I want my paintings to feel alive, interactive—even slightly mystical. These specialty paints help make that happen.
Pushing Pyrography Beyond Basswood
When I first got into woodburning, I mostly used smooth, soft basswood. It was great for learning, but I’ve since taken on harder and more complex wood types like cherry, birch, maple, ash, and padauk (which was unbelievably dense—seriously).
Each wood behaves differently depending on its grain, tone, and texture. That variation forces me to adapt and expand my technique. Recently, I’ve also been burning designs onto kendamas—Japanese wooden skill toys with curved surfaces and tight spaces. They’re challenging, but super satisfying.
Burning on objects instead of flat plaques has unlocked a whole new level of creativity and problem-solving. It’s pushed me to design with purpose and precision.
Challenging Myself & Looking Ahead
Nearly every change I’ve made has added difficulty—but that’s the point. I want to keep growing. I’m experimenting with transparent spray paints, glazes, color washes, and refining my shading in pyrography. I’ve also been watching online courses to level up my technique across mediums.
Looking back at my early work, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. But I’m even more excited about where I’m going. My style is still evolving, and I feel like I’m entering a new creative phase—one where I have the skills, space, and vision to go deeper than ever before.
Final Thoughts
Art has become a mirror of my personal evolution. Every change in my process reflects a mindset shift: more attention to detail, more boldness in experimentation, and more pride in my craft. Whether it’s through painting or pyrography, I’m not just making art—I’m becoming the person I want to be through it.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Whether you’re an artist yourself or just curious about the process, I hope this inspires you to try new things, challenge yourself, and reflect on how far you’ve come too.
Stay curious. Stay creative. And keep growing.
