To-Do
Reid Doehling
pencil on sticky-notes / 3 x 3 inches / 2019-2020
9.4.20 / Studio 62 (2729 N 62nd St.)
“To-Do” is a series of pencil drawings on sticky-notes presenting a variety of ideas regarding the process of following a new path and self discovery.
I began using sticky-notes to transfer sketches from my mind into physical form so that I could better visualize my ideas. Similar to many others that use sticky-notes for reminders and to-do lists, my original intention was to use these sketches for reference in later projects.
I continued to add to my collection of these little sketches and had difficulty moving on to the next step: the artwork. After a while, I decided to embrace the smaller scale and focus on using the sticky-notes as the final canvas.
The decision to name the series “To-Do” came from the use of the sticky-note sketches as reminders of what to work on next as well as the artwork displaying themes of making the tough decisions of what to do for the future.
Levels
“Levels” was created when I was experimenting with a new drawing style and wasn’t originally intended to be a piece to display. However, it is included in the series because of what it represents: trying new things and focusing on continuing to get to the next level.
Breakthrough
“Breakthrough” was the first piece in the collection that was done with the intention of being displayed in this size and on a sticky-note. For quite some time, I have been struggling to decide which path to pursue. I had always been intrigued by design and geometric forms and my interest in the built environment led me to study architecture. After some time, I felt that I wasn’t heading in the right direction. I thought “Maybe ‘art’ is where my real passion lies.” But I still wanted to be involved in problem solving; so, I decided to go after graphic design.
“Breakthrough” displays a round callout of two crossing paths. The breakthrough is presented where the two forms meet, but also where one path breaks free from the constructs of the circle.
Push and Pull
“Push and Pull” is another drawing portraying the decision to choose a new path. It was very difficult for me to come to terms with changing my direction of study and focusing on pursuing a different career. I decided to quit allowing myself to get pulled back into a situation that wasn’t allowing me to do what I am capable of. I had to push myself out of the depression and put my all into something new.
String
Although “String” came before each “Push and Pull” and “Unraveling,” it is an interesting connection between the other two pieces, bringing the ideas together and forming another work.
Unraveling
“Unraveling” is unique because it is the only drawing in the series that has a concrete subject: a ball of yarn.
This image depicts my emotions throughout the process of deciding to choose a new path. Struggling with depression made it difficult to ‘give up’ on something and led to thoughts of failure. However, at the same time, beginning something new is exciting and may lead to something great in the future.
Layers 1
Both “Layers 1 and 2” are drawings with a focus on perspective. That is because one may look at them and see descending steps into a void, or ascending steps leading to vastness. Both play with the sense of curiosity and wonder, two ideas when acted upon can be beneficial or harmful. However perceived, there may be some risk involved.
Layers 2
Both “Layers 1 and 2” are drawings with a focus on perspective. That is because one may look at them and see descending steps into a void, or ascending steps leading to vastness. Both play with the sense of curiosity and wonder, two ideas when acted upon can be beneficial or harmful. However perceived, there may be some risk involved.
Thirds
“Thirds” is about the unknown in an important situation. Similar to “Layers 1 and 2,” the frame in “Thirds” may lead the viewer to desire to know what is outside their view.
Circles
The drawing “Circles” is representative of the overwhelming feeling of how many smaller things grouped together can become much more daunting than they need to be.
Flowing
The idea for “Flowing” came from the image of water in motion. The flowing paths and variety in line weights are intended to make it difficult for there to be only one focal point.
“Flowing” is a representation of competing ideas and the feelings it provokes. Water can be calming and tranquil or it can lead to anxiety and confusion. I wanted to create an image that portrays the way I think and feel when something is so important but unknown at the same time.
Divergene
“Divergence” is about making adjustments. I have had to make many adjustments over the last year while changing my focus from my desire to become an architect and design the built environment, to promoting creativity and pursuing a future in art and graphic design.
This piece includes an image of a winding path that changes course at one distinct corner. This is representative of following a path but having to make it unique to fit your needs.
Edges
Displaying two competing forces that have a number of similarities but are both unique, “Edges” is another attempt at creating a composition that presents the theme of different paths.
