Pride in Art, Art in Pride

Hey! Kanjon here, wishing all of you a happy pride. Whether you’re LGBT+ or an ally, it’s more important than ever to be proud of who you are. It’s not just putting up rainbows for a month of the year, it’s about re-affirming our friendships, introspection, and embracing our identities.

Wait, pride, whaaat? What’s that gotta do with art? Hey, for one, I can talk about other things too and pride is important. But also it has lots to do with art in modern times. It can be a fantastic outlet for our feelings, our desires, our dreams. Art can express things in a way that’s not possible otherwise.

Celebrate who you are! Art is the perfect medium for figuring things out, working through emotions, puzzling through your sexuality or gender identity: it’s where you have the chance to be your absolute truest self. When you express yourself through art either visually, through writing, or any form of creativity, you’re putting that part of you into some physical form. And, should you choose, you can share that with the world.

Out there already? Be proud. And in art, no matter the skill level, there’s nothing better than seeing someone’s ideas come to life, sharing that piece of themselves in a way that no one else can. Even if you think you’re not the artsy type, give drawing a try! And… my whole channel is about learning to draw, hit that Subscribe button and check it out!

Questioning? Afraid? Or just not ready to share that part of yourself with anyone? That’s OK. You’re valid. This is what makes art perfect: it’s your safe space and you get to set the boundaries. You can doodle and sketch your feelings and no one else has to see it. Everyone needs that safe space and to have their own private sketchbook; you don’t have to feel guilty about it. And hey, if you want to try sharing later, this is the internet! You can pick your own artist name and no one has to know who you are. Being able to share your thoughts with others in an online community can help you build up confidence in both art and your identity. Shared stories and feelings can lead to friendships in surprising places.

Consider yourself an ally? Hey, that’s cool too. You are you, and you don’t have to feel left out. That’s how you were born! We’re all born the ways we are, and that’s why it’s important to celebrate that and support each other. Be awesome to yourself and to your friends, that’s all you gotta do.

Have an incredible pride month, or any month, no matter when you see this. Take the time to be your best self. I think it’s amazing to express that in art and hope you’ll give that a try, too – but you do whatever feels right.