Late Night Sketches are My Favorite

I love creating sketches in the comfort of my bed, with music playing or a comedy show running in the background. It’s where I feel relaxed, where my mind can wander, and where I can just create.

I usually start with a simple pencil sketch and then layer it with ink. I draw the shapes, imagine what the person or thing might look like, and then I just go for it. There’s not always a plan. Sometimes I just let the drawing take me wherever it wants to go.

When my pictures come out simple, with just a hint of character and feeling, I’m really happy with the results. And when I add lines, spaces, and shapes in places you wouldn’t necessarily expect, something interesting happens. I’m thinking about things while I’m drawing that I probably wouldn’t share with another human being.

No, I’m not crazy. At least I don’t think I am. 😂

But there are definitely times when my imagination just runs away with me—and you can see it in the art I create.

I keep telling myself that I need to find a style. A common thread. A recognizable way of putting a piece of art together. But lately, I’ve started to realize that maybe I don’t need to force that.

My ink drawings, my late-night sketches, and my busy mind might actually be my style.

Maybe that’s exactly who I am and where I’m supposed to be right now.

I can already see a lot of my artwork on massive canvases, filled with color, movement, and lines that keep your eyes traveling across the piece. That’s what I’m working toward right now. I’m still figuring it out, but I can see it.

And sometimes, seeing where you’re going is enough to keep moving.

In life, it’s the little things that make the big things possible. I read something today that really connected with what I’m trying to share:

The compass was invented before the clock.

I love that idea.

It’s a reminder that knowing your direction and your purpose can be more important than worrying about how long it takes to get there.

My goal is simple: I want to excite people with lines, shapes, movement, and emotion.

And even though I don’t always feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be, I know—and I can feel—that I’m getting there.

So I’m not going to rush the process.

I’m going to keep sketching. Keep experimenting. Keep letting my imagination run wild. Keep putting the pieces together until the bigger picture makes sense.

And when I’m ready, I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on.

In the meantime, keep creating, keep exploring, and keep moving in the direction that feels right to you.

Don’t worry so much about the clock. Rely on the compass.

Check out these late-night sketches that are now in the shop for you to enjoy!

The girl with her favorite hot brew, cozied up in her sweater, alone, happy, enjoying the quiet. The guy tuning up his guitar to play through his bad day away, or the woman who is growing from the inside out and starting to love herself again. Which one are you?

Nicol

Nicol: Creative Manager and Master Athlete Thriving in the DMV Area

Meet Nicol Hodges, a versatile professional, serves as a creative manager and excels as a master athlete who calls the DMV area her new home. Her remarkable journey in sports commenced in St. Charles, MO, where she achieved an impressive three-year streak as a top-ranked runner in the 400 meter dash at the state and national level. Continuing her athletic prowess at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Nicol clinched an astounding eight Big 12 Track and Field titles, including a championship victory.

In addition to her athletic abilities, Nicol possesses a rich creative background. Her journey into the world of creative management has been a testament to her passion and dedication, which mirror her athletic achievements. Nicol’s creative endeavors have encompassed innovative projects and campaigns, showcasing her unique blend of talent and expertise for companies like Mattel - Barbie, and Dr. Seuss Enterprises - The Grinch.

Continuing her academic pursuits at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Nicol further solidified her legacy by claiming an astonishing eight Big 12 Track and Field titles, alongside an illustrious championship victory. Her achievements in both the athletic and creative realms exemplify her unwavering commitment to excellence.

Today, Nicol continues to channel her deep-seated love for running, competing in a diverse array of local and national running events. Her dynamic and multifaceted journey as a creative manager and master athlete/runner serves as an inspiring testament to her unrelenting passion and drive.

http://www.nicolhodges.com
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How Running and Art Came Into My Life