Today we’d like to introduce you to Anika Butler
Hi Anika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been drawing ever since I could pick up a pencil. My mom was particularly enthusiastic about my art ever since then – she even framed some of my art from back then, when most would just keep it on the fridge, which I think kept me interested as I got older.
I continued to draw as a hobby throughout my junior high and high school experience, but I didn’t think it was anything I could do seriously.
It wasn’t until spring of 2022 that I felt called to return to my art practice more seriously. Since then, I switched my major at UVU to illustration and have been studying and getting better ever since.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not. The biggest struggle I experience time and time again is doubt. What if I can’t make it? What if I give up? What if I’m not good enough? That, coupled with the experience of trying new things which also leads to new failures, sometimes make me step back and ask myself, “do I really want this?” “Can I really do this?”
The answer every time has been the same.
You want it. So you’re going to do whatever it takes to do it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, the thing that sets me apart from others is my transparency about how much I still don’t know and how much I’m learning. I’m gaining skills and experience in illustration deliberately paying attention to how I can blossom into my authentic, whole, creative self. I’m giving myself space to learn new mediums still, to experiment, to grow and find my true artistic calling instead of settling for something that feels comfortable or that others tell me is ‘successful’. While I’d say my traditional drawing skills are my strength currently, I’m actively learning more about digital art practice, animation, video and visual effects.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Two things:
1. Trust your gut.
2. Be patient with the process.
The biggest thing with starting is committing – deciding if you’re actually going to go for it, or if it’s going to stay a dream. Your gut will tell you what you really want to do.
After that, it’s not an overnight transformation! You’re going to have doubts, it’s probably going to be a longer process than you thought. Be patient. Lasting success doesn’t come without time and effort.
Pricing:
- Reach out for pricing questions.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @anika.artista
- Twitter: @anikabethart
Image Credits
Brooke Conder Photography
