Welcome to the club, fellow creative. Make yourself comfortable.
This is not only a place for me to occasionally vent and keep those interested in my art updated, but a space for you, navigating this unpredictable—and sometimes maddening—journey of being an artist.
Here, we share about the highs and lows, the breakthroughs and the blocks, the passion and the burnout. And why it’s fundamental to not be creative all the time.
Who’s Writing This?
My name is Karen. I’m a 26-year-old Mexican illustrator with a degree in psychology. I’ve never offered a single therapy session since graduating during the pandemic. But hey, I have great potential as a patient.
I decided to try art full-time back then, and somehow ended up represented by an agency, working with big publishers like HarperCollins and Scholastic illustrating covers, graphic novels and chapter books. And, guess what? I’m not always creative. And I deal with self-doubt, burnout and the existencial dread of freelancing from time to time.
Maybe you’re wondering why I chose art over psychology. Not just because I cry every time people share their traumas with me (though, fair), but because I’m more drawn to my emotional side than my analytical one (evidently). And that’s exactly why I’m so drawn to the beauty of illustration.
That said, I’m realizing I might be entering a new phase where I can finally merge both passions of mine and share what I’ve been learning with you.
I got to say, I have no idea what I’m doing just like everybody, but I love talking about mental health and creativity—how they clash, intertwine, and shape us as artists. I believe we can fall in and out of love with what we do as we grow and change.
A huge lesson that recently impacted me is that taking breaks is essential. Lifting our heads from the sketchbook, looking around, taking care of ourselves, and exploring different versions of who we are. Slowing down. Looking within. And simply being a not-always-creative human.
It’s a fact that soon enough, you’ll reach for the pencil again with a stronger grip, because stepping away from creativity for a while can actually fuel us to create better.
What You’ll Find Here:
This newsletter is a mix of insights, deep dives into creative struggles and the process behind my work talking from my experience on illustration, sequential art, and publishing.
My goal is to bring honesty and awareness to the messy lifestyle we chose as creatives. This is a space for every art lover—whether you create regularly or sometimes just can’t.
Being an artist can be lonely and tough. Social media isn’t a reliable place anymore. I know we all crave real, honest conversations and to see our struggles reflected in other fellow creatives. And hopefully find compassion for ourselves and inspiration in the process. I hope this becomes one of those spaces that reminds you that you are not alone.
As a free subscriber you’ll get:
Insights on wellness, creativity and mental health for artists.
Behind-the-scenes look of my art process and figuring out the freelance craft
Updates on my projects, sketches, comics and upcoming events & courses.
Occasional tech tips for comics and illustration.
Recommendations, quotes, sarcasm and more related to art.
Once you join the club, you’ll receive one or two monthly letters from me straight to your inbox. No algorithms, no distractions, just a dose of art and honesty.
So, grab a seat and your favorite hot beverage. Stay as long as you need, take what resonates, and let’s figure out this creative chaos together.
Thank you for stopping by!
My website/portfolio: karendelavegart.com
All my links: linktr.ee/karendelavegart
