💎 [New art] I forgot how to draw

Portrait Gem #44

Jan 29, 2025

Bonjour my little demon,

You’re now one of 21,040 souls collecting my gems. Whether you just joined or have been here from the beginning, thank you so much for reading 🖤

*Today, I’m introducing the redraw of Terra, a portrait I worked on last week. It’s my first portrait of 2025, and I hope you’ll love it!*

If you haven’t already, you can:

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TODAY’S GEM

In this missive, I shared my plan to redraw one of my signature portraits from 2023. Last week, I finally made time for it… But nothing went as planned.

Picture this: me in my atelier, buzzing with excitement—I finally had time to draw. I was ready. I knew exactly what I wanted to create. I knew this character inside out—I had brought her to life two years ago.

And yet... I couldn't start.

You probably know this feeling—the one where it seems like you forgot how to draw overnight.

It typically happens when life gets too busy.

For me, I had been deep into creating my new masterclass Portrait for Meaning and preparing the New Year Launch. Even though I kept up some portrait studies, this blank page felt different—too much noise in my head.

To break through the block, I told myself: why not make this drawing process a fun and safe place?

Instead of starting from a blank page, I switched to making multiple drafts, building confidence through the design process. And to make it even more fun, why not try digital drafts this time?

It gave me freedom. A way to play, to reconnect, to find Terra again. Who is she? How should I portray her? The moment I let go of my usual process, the pressure disappeared.

With a solid draft in hand, I finally moved back to graphite—no blank page, no hesitation. I felt confident, reconnected to my art. Four hours later (yes, I’m slow), the portrait was complete.

And today, let me introduce you to the New Terra:

**Terranae**, the embodiment of earth, radiates stability and balance. Their calm presence reflects unshakable strength and deeply rooted values. Kind yet resilient, they restore harmony in the face of conflict, always seeking to rally allies—even among humans—for a peaceful resolution. As the de facto leader, Terranae believes in humanity’s potential and strives to protect nature without unnecessary destruction.

Looking at this redraw, I realize my biggest growth this year wasn’t just about improving skills—it was about finding a style that truly feels like mine.

👉 Which version speaks to you more, and why? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’m reading every one!

🔥Tribe Spotlight🔥

Just like me with Terra, I invited my Portrait Gems students to redraw one of my Elementary Demons in their own style—and the results are incredible!

Check out some of the amazing entries!