"You don’t just become good" @serving.up.burns

Dear Diary, 

I go by Burns online, I’m 19, and originally from New York (though I’ll keep my current location a mystery for now, lol).

I’ve always been fascinated by art for some reason. Maybe it’s because of animation, or maybe it’s because I felt like there would be more opportunities for me. Don’t get me wrong, I still love traditional art — it’s my roots, and I’ll always revisit it. But digital art, even though it took some time to pick up on, felt very natural to me.

Social media hasn’t changed my art much, though I guess it’s made me a bit more consistent. In 2023, I was going through some things, and earlier that year, I had an art teacher who made me feel less than my work. So, I stopped for about a year. In 2024, I decided I’d draw at least once a day — it didn’t have to be pretty, perfect, or complete, just done. Social media kind of keeps me on my toes with that. If it’s not a post, then it’s a story.

Credit: Burns (Instagram @serving.up.burns)

Social media numbers did mess with my mind in the beginning. I was so worried about whether I was good enough — if my art was even worth showing to other people. Then I took a step back and focused on my journey instead. People and likes will come with time. Sure, anyone would like them, but I’ve realized that it’ll all come when it’s meant to.

Music has been a huge inspiration for my artwork lately. I even use it for my warm-ups, where I draw whatever the song inspires in me; if I want to make it more challenging, I try to finish it within the song’s duration. It’s really helped improve my speed. I also draw from life, as any artist does. I currently have two original stories in the works, both dealing with things I’ve experienced and the messages I feel are important to share.

My advice? You don’t just become good — it happens over time. You have to do the uncomfortable things you don’t yet know in order to get better. You have to give yourself grace for how far you’ve come, because trust me, you’ve come a long way. And most importantly, have fun. Art carries messages and meaning, but it should bring you joy too.

Until then!

Burns