Dear Journal,

I'd like to start by saying this is the first time I make an online journal, and I thought it would be nice to be able to track my progress in this fantasmagorical world of art. I have only lately been known by a few friends and my parents as an aspiring artist, so I'd say I haven't gotten much awareness yet. Which I'm alright with, seeing as I'm still learning, and have only a few pieces worth showing to anyone.

I am currently 16 years old, and I am in grade 11. I'm taking art lessons at this nice little place near a pond and forested area, and have been to about 3 lessons so far. I've learned very basic watercolour techniques (I just basically got to experiment with the watercolour paint, painting a cup and a wood block as an exercise) and otherwise I am self-taught. I have been developing a passion for art, and want to learn as much about it as I can.

At school, I am finishing exams, and about to start a new semester. I will be taking Digital Photography and Visual Art, which I am excited about! (I also have English, which is cool, but I'm not so excited about Math...)

Other big things in my life... I'm beginning a sort of punk band with a couple friends, but that's mostly for fun and so that we can hang out... My group of friends has been shifting and redesigning itself, so I am not so sure who is where in those terms, but I do have one best friend, and she is very special to me. She is on vacation in the Bahamas though, so I kind of miss her right now...

Otherwise, things are cool, I am feeling pretty mellow/neutral, and am still developing my art skills (if you can even call them that yet )

Oh, almost forgot, I painted "Manic Depressive" today, my first official watercolour piece and it took me about 3 hours... yikes! I hope to improve my speed with more practice.