Hi friends, it’s me, Sibu TP, and happy happy happy Thanksgiving week! It’s the holidays, and that means different things for different people. For some, it’s a time of warmth and reflection spent with loved ones, full tables, and a heap of traditions. For others, the season is a bit lonelier, a bit quieter, and many of the traditions we may take for granted are experienced from the outside looking in.
So first note, if you can, please consider those who are unable to enjoy this time, and take a moment to appreciate all you have. If you’re able, please also donate to those who may have a bit less on their table through local food banks, drives, pantries, etc. I included some links below to start, but definitely try contributing locally where you can. And finally, again if you can, maybe send a text to someone you haven’t spoken to for a while who may need a bit of human connection this time of year.
The holidays usually make me reflect a lot, I get a bit sad, I really feel the time passing on and I start thinking about old friends and family. But of course it’s fun too. Time off, traditions, turkey. My wife and I visit both our families so we’re lucky in that way. I try not to lose sight of that.
But let’s talk about art.
What do the holidays really mean in the context of art making? For me it’s guilt, haha. First off, we’re nearing the end of the year and I’m always thinking I could have done more and asking if what I did this year was enough. I always try to squeeze in some more work before the year ends, whether that be a new portfolio piece or an update to the manuscript I was working on.
But the thing that’s at odds with that thinking is that living is one of the most important things you can do to help you make art.
You absolutely have to experience life without the encumbrance of commodifying those experiences by crystalizing it in the amber of a new piece of art. The best thing you can do for your mind and heart is to get rest and to open the metaphorical shutters. Clear out the cobwebs, let in some light and fresh air. Recirculate, refill. If you’re thinking of skipping out on the family gathering or friendsgiving because you feel bad about being away from your work desk, I really wholeheartedly suggest reconsidering.
I mean, please make your deadlines. Let me reiterate, I’m definitely not telling you to miss your deadlines! But if you’re on deadline, try to make both. You may even find the break a nice source of clarity that helps you get through the finish line quicker.
Be kind to yourself. This work is alienating at times and you’re often the only person who truly believes in what you’re making. Don’t add to those feelings by thinking you don’t deserve a break. Clear your mind, eat, be present in spaces with people you love, or with people you’re meeting for the first time. Take time to reflect on your year and on all the wonderful things you are blessed with. Then, for the love of God, please make your deadlines. :)
This is my last post as a guest blogger. It’s been really fun to talk these ideas out and share them with you all. Have a wonderful holiday and New Year. I’ll be at the SCBWI Winter Conference, maybe I’ll see you there? Until then, happy art-making, friends!
https://www.feedingamerica.org/
https://foodforthepoor.org/help-now/
If this post interested you, please reach out and let me know!
You can find me as @sibutp on all the things, mainly Instagram.
I'm a storyteller. I make cultural and societal picture books that are rich, colorful, and touch on universal stories. I work through the belief that we're all connected by those small moments in life that I try to capture in my illustrations.
Born and raised in New York, I am a first-generation child of immigrants from Kerala, India. I spent a great deal of my childhood years scribbling and sketching, dreaming and imagining. I studied English Literature at Stony Brook University and received my MFA in Illustration at the Hartford Art School.
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