From My Sketchbook

The messy, wonderful journey behind the finished artwork.

Chapter 1

You Look Happier

It all began with a blank sketchbook.

There's something magical about opening a brand new sketchbook. Every page feels full of possibility.

This year, I finally decided to stop waiting for the "right time" and simply begin. I packed my sketchbook, wandered into the sunshine, admired the flowers around me, and drew a hummingbird beneath a cherry blossom tree.

Looking back at this video, I realize something, I really do look happier. Maybe that's what happens when you spend more time creating than worrying.

Chapter 2

The Parent Conversation

"This looks nice... but why not get a real job?"

If you're an artist, you've probably heard this at least once.

Thankfully, my family has always supported my creative side, but this audio made me laugh because it's such a familiar joke in the art world.

Behind every finished sketch are countless hours that don't always look like "work" to everyone else.

For me, they're some of the happiest hours of my day.

Chapter 3

My Garden Is My Biggest Muse

Sometimes inspiration blooms outside my window.

This hibiscus has been in our garden for years.

One morning a little bulbul landed beside it, and I knew I wanted to remember that moment forever.

That's one of my favourite things about drawing, it lets ordinary moments stay with us a little longer.

Chapter 4

Not Every Sketch Works

Sometimes the very first line tells you it's going to be one of those days. 😂

I wish every drawing started perfectly.

It doesn't.

Sometimes the proportions are off.

Sometimes the pen doesn't cooperate.

Sometimes the dolphin ends up looking suspiciously like a shark.

And that's okay.

Every page teaches me something.

Chapter 5

Things I'm Still Learning

Limbs are harder than they look.

One thing I've learned from drawing is that no artist ever truly "arrives."

There are always new things to improve.

Animal limbs.

Human hands.

Perspective.

Fur.

Feathers.

I'm still figuring it all out, and honestly, that's part of the fun.

🤍

Chapter 6

Why I Started

Mridula, Artist

January 9, 2026.

I have been drawing ever since I was a little girl.

Sketchbooks have followed me through different stages of life, quietly collecting pieces of who I was at the time.

On January 9th, 2026, I finally gathered the courage to share my work with the world.

I didn't know where it would lead.

I just knew I didn't want my drawings to stay hidden anymore.

My dream is simple.

I want someone to hang one of my illustrations in your home and hope you smile every time you walk past it.

I want to turn years of sketchbooks into books that can be shared with you.

I want to preserve these little stories before they're forgotten.

Maybe that's what legacy means, not being famous, but leaving behind something that made another person feel at home.

If you've published an illustrated book, or have advice on where to begin, I'd genuinely love to hear from you.

Chapter 7

Which One Is Your Favourite?

A lighter post.

Every artwork has a different story.

I'd love to know which one found a place in your heart.

Chapter 8

Keep Going

The perfect ending.

If you're reading this because you've been wanting to start something, drawing, painting, writing, anything really, this is your sign.

Your first sketch won't be perfect.

Neither will your tenth.

Mine certainly aren't.

But every page you fill is one more than yesterday.

So...

Just keep going. 🤍