Hello, and welcome back!
With the onset of Fall, the mornings are getting colder (at least in the U.K.), the leaves are changing color, and October is almost upon us, which can only mean one thing: #Inktober!
#1: What is it?
For those of you who may not be aware, Inktober is the yearly challenge to produce one ink drawing each day for the month of October, using the prompts provided by the organizers of this event (ie, ‘dragon’, ‘sour’ or ‘teeth’).
#2: How do I get involved?
Using the relevant hashtags, you can upload your drawing to social media. If you’re trying to grow your online presence/draw attention to your art, this is a great way to gain new followers and discover other talented artists to follow.
#3: Is this for professional artists only?
If you’re like me, and the find idea of ink-based drawings a little scary, don’t worry! All skill levels are welcome here. Part of the fun is sharing your work on Instagram, for example; however, if this isn’t something that you’re comfortable with, Inktober still makes for an excellent personal study.
#4: I make a lot of mistakes! Do I have to use ink only?
As someone who is constantly revising my drawings, I was initially nervous to take this on, until I learned that it’s okay to do an undersketch in pencil. What a gamechanger!
#5: I’m not able to complete 1 sketch per day. Is there another way to participate?
If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with the daily prompts once life gets in the way – first of all, hello and welcome to the club! – secondly, Inktober also runs a yearly challenge called Inktober 52. So instead of 1 drawing per day, you’re only asked to complete one inked piece per week!
Whichever form you prefer, I’d love to see what you come up with. Happy Inktober!