My Journey into Digital Art

Like many people, my journey began with a simple love for doodling and colouring. It wasn’t about perfection or making something to sell (and it’s still not!)—it was about escape and self-expression.

I started with colouring and eventually moved on to drawing as a way to manage my stress—because working part-time and being a mother to three small kids is often challenging—letting the rhythmic motion of colouring soothe my thoughts. Over time, what began as a personal retreat grew into something far more meaningful—a way to bring joy to others, especially my children, and later, a way to honour the people I love.

Drawing as Therapy: A Quiet Comfort

Engaging my creative mind has always grounded me. When life felt overwhelming (which it too often did), I would lose myself in a project—crocheting a blanket, doing diamond art, macramé, refinishing a desk or bookcase, playing an instrument—finding a sense of peace in the act of creating. It didn’t matter what I was doing, as long as I was engaged.

As someone with autism and ADHD, I find that keeping my hands busy helps me process and cope with the world around me. Many of those hobbies, however, can become expensive if pursued constantly—which is where drawing came to my rescue. With drawing, I could spend endless hours with just paper and pen or an iPad and stylus, tapping into that creative energy without the high cost!

There’s something deeply comforting about art when there’s no pressure to perform or expectations to meet. It was my personal refuge—a space where I could breathe. It was something just for me; I never showed anyone my work, especially when I felt it wasn’t good enough. I carried an inner narrative that I wasn’t the “artist” of the family—I would often joke that all I could draw were stick figures, doubting my creative abilities. But as time passed, my relationship with art evolved.

A Mother’s Creativity: Drawing to Delight My Children

As my children grew, so did their interests. I found myself wanting to bring their favourite characters to life. Instead of colouring merely for my own relaxation, I started creating things for them—posters of their most beloved heroes, murals of scenes from their favourite films, portraits of their favourite musical artists. Their excitement became my motivation. Seeing their faces light up at something I had drawn reminded me of the magic that art can bring. It wasn’t just about stress relief anymore; it was about storytelling, connection, and sharing something special with the people I cared about most.

Capturing Love on Canvas: Learning to Draw People

With time, my confidence grew, and I began attempting something I had always found intimidating—drawing people. Not just any people, but the ones I loved dearly. At first, it was daunting. Faces are complex; emotions, even more so. But I was determined to capture the essence of those who meant the most to me.

I started with a portrait of my husband and me, recreating a photograph from our wedding in a semi-realistic illustration, which I gave him for our anniversary. At the time, I thought it was just a simple, inexpensive gift—since we were a bit strapped for cash—but he saw it as something entirely different: a meaningful, touching gift from the heart (which it truly was!), and that experience reframed how I viewed my art. I then moved on to another much-beloved man in my life, drawing a photograph of my grandfather and me from my childhood in a vector-style portrait. Soon after, a friend asked for a portrait of her and her husband, and another requested one featuring her, her husband, and their two small children.

Every portrait became more than just a drawing; it was a way of preserving memories, of holding onto the little details that make someone unique—the curve of a smile, the softness in their eyes, the way laughter lines tell a thousand stories. It was in these moments that I realised art had become more than a personal escape—it had become a way to honour, celebrate, and cherish the people in my life.

Where I Am Now: Turning Passion into Purpose

What started as a means of relaxation has turned into a passion and a business. Now, I create digital portraits not just for myself but for others who want to celebrate their loved ones through art. Each commission I take on carries a story, and I pour my heart into every line and brushstroke.

I never set out to be a traditional artist—in fact, I still don’t really consider myself one; I’m more a freely creative spirit who loves to try everything. Art gives me not just a creative outlet but also connection, purpose, and the joy of bringing smiles to others.

If you’ve ever felt drawn to creativity but doubted your skills or felt like art wasn’t “for you,” I encourage you to just start. Draw for yourself. Draw for your children. Draw for the people you love. You never know where it might lead.

What’s Your Art Journey?

Have you ever used drawing as a form of stress relief or a way to connect with loved ones? I’d love to hear your story! Share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media—I’d love to see what you create.

And if you’re looking for a custom portrait to celebrate someone special in your life, I’d be honoured to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a cherished memory, a beloved family member, or a piece of art to brighten your space, I’d love to help create something meaningful with you.

From my first scribbles to the portraits that now fill my heart, thank you for being part of this creative adventure. May your days be colourful, your lines be bold, and your imagination always run wild.

With love (and probably a few unfinished sketches lying around),

Megan x