I recently sold one of my hand drawn designs “Mailbox” and each time I see it I remember the day I drew it.
The open mailbox drawing was done freehand with a pen and colored pencils. I’m not sure where the actual mailbox inspiration came from, but I remember where I was. My state of mind was not good, and I think I was looking for some peace.
Selling the Mailbox
When I drew this picture, I had not begun working for Zazzle, or maybe I had just started. I know it was very early on because I drew this in 2007 or 2008. I had a lot to learn about getting art uploaded and ready to sell. Of course, like all art and designs that are put up for sale, there is no way to know if anyone will ever want to buy it.
In general, this is how I like to draw. I don’t put a lot of thought and planning into it, I just begin with a thought in my head. If it works out, great. If it seems like something someone would buy, I will list it for sale.
Eventually I opened a Zazzle shop called Claras Desk where I posted some of my hand drawn artwork for sale. It is a shop in progress.
Mailbox postcard and other mailbox art products with this design in my Claras Desk shop.
I took my paper, pens and pencils outside to the grassy lawn. I was renting a house just outside of Concord, New Hampshire. I was no longer a homeowner with a stable life. I was suddenly alone, my marriage was over, and lots of uncertainty was on the horizon.
My kids and my daughter’s boyfriend were down by the pond on the property. I set up my chair in the grass to watch them play by the water and began to draw. Never did I expect the image to turn out well. I just needed to draw something. I still don’t see it as anything special, and it conjures these old memories of being lost.
The mailbox is drawn by hand and I guess these days that is special. It symbolizes something that means home. For me it symbolizes stability and a place of belonging.
Imagining Peace and Contentment
Image that the mailman has come (my grandfather was a mailman) and you’ve got letters – from friends? A blue flowering vine has climbed up the post and is spreading over the mailbox. After collecting the exciting letters (no bills allowed here) you walk inside and sit to read them. Peace, happiness, and contentment.
How Has Drawing Affected You in a Positive Way?
I honestly do not draw much these days. I’m not sure why that is but maybe I am simply not inspired. The more likely reason is that I am busy with work and other hobbies.
