There have been many folks on web sites, blogs, or Facebook pages that display artwork along with personal photos, including myself. I studied art at the University of Kansas, and have used art to progress various business concepts--usually to fuel ideas in marketing for places I've worked, and also in the field of training and development. I enjoy drawing and painting the human figure, landscapes, and fantasy images.

My interests in art and creating art force me to realize that these are fascinating times for a visual artist to be alive. The advent of the Internet is the greatest gift to artists since the invention of printing. Before that moment, an artist's work could only be viewed personally. There was no forum for mass production of a single work. An artist lucky enough to be compensated for their work typically was hired by the wealthy, and their work was viewed by whoever the owner wanted or allowed to see it. The introduction of printing changed all that, allowing art that was once only appreciated by the wealthy to be enjoyed by everyone.

The Internet has had the same effect. Now artwork can be viewed worldwide, limited only be the number of people who visit a particular site. Artwork can be sold online also, allowing creators to benefit financially without having to sell their souls to a printer, publisher, or gallery owner. Now the artist can sell their work her/himself. Never before in history has it been so possible for people to enjoy another person's talent, and it has never been easier for artists to benefit from their notoriety.

Everyone is continually creative in the context of their lives, but those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to creative work experience both unique joys and difficulties. So why do we draw? Is it to be recognized? Is it to share our particular talent with the rest of the world? Who benefits--the artist or the viewer, or both? Is it to express something inside ourselves, or to act as a catharsis? Is it to add value to the world of art through style, form or content? I draw and paint, but do not make a living at it. I use it when I can to augment a project or goal, but I do not make much money through art per se. So, why do I draw?