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Unveiling the Magic: My Enthusiastic Journey of Seeing My Recent Artwork in Print

Writer's picture: Jessica DawnJessica Dawn

As I gaze upon my first artwork print for the year of my recent artwork, I am truly captivated by its vibrant colours and intricate details. This moment marks a significant milestone in my artistic journey, and I owe it all to the printing process for bringing my vision to life in such a stunning way.


I titled this piece "A View from My Balcony 1" because I initially aimed to explore the harmony of a landscape consumed by a dramatic sky as a series. This theme draws inspiration from the Sublime movement, which I have previously explored in my blogs. The "1" indicates my original intention to create a larger series of at least 4 Limited Edition artworks. Yet, by the time I completed this artwork, I felt thoroughly exhausted. It seemed that more time had passed than I had expected, prompting me to consider moving on to a new project and labeling this piece as a standalone work instead.


However, as I hold the first print in my hands as a quality test, I find myself profoundly inspired by how this piece translates into the physical world. In fact, I've started to reconsider the possibility of creating a series after all.



Artist Jessica Dawn quality inspecting her first edition print.
Here I am quality inspecting the first edition artwork print.


The Process of Creating Artwork


Creating this art piece was an intense journey. Drawing directly on my iPad came with its distinct challenges and advantages. I often found myself zooming in so much that it felt like I was working in a different realm altogether. This focus on the tiniest colour changes and intricate details is essential, particularly since I envision these artworks being as large as A1 (23.4 x 33.1 inches), while my iPad screen is only 12.9 inches.


One aspect of digital art that I sometimes miss compared to traditional canvas work is the ability to step back and see the entire piece instantly. With digital art, I have learned to embrace the uncertainty of viewing small sections at a time. Trusting the process has become vital, proving that the effort I put into this work ultimately shines through.


The Excitement of Printing


Having experience in printing, I knew the quality and accuracy of colour and detail would be professional. As I finalized my piece, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. There’s something extraordinary about sending off my work for its first print. I meticulously double-check every inch, ensuring I feel confident enough to let it go.


And then comes the wait. While it is not unbearably long, thanks to modern production speeds, the anticipation builds. When the moment finally arrives, and I unwrap the parcel, that’s when the true magic unfolds.



Closeup of artwork print showing the quality of colours and detail in the printing.
I am blown away by the final colours the printing process has translated onto paper.

Moment of Revelation


As I peel back the layers of packaging, the first glimpse of my artwork in print is exhilarating. The colours leap off the paper in ways I hadn’t comprehended. There’s a vibrancy to my work that digital screens simply can’t capture. The intricate details I painstakingly crafted digitally now come alive, overwhelming me with emotion.


Seeing my artwork printed allows me to appreciate my efforts in an entirely new light, validating every ounce of labour I invested. I could hardly contain my excitement as I examined the subtle nuances in colour transitions and minute details that I worked diligently to achieve.


Reconsidering My Next Steps


Now, standing before my first print, I contemplate my next steps. Should I stick to my initial plan of creating a series, or focus on standalone pieces? The enlightening experience of seeing my work in print has reignited a flame within me, reminding me that art is a living entity capable of evoking emotions and thoughts each time it’s viewed.


Although I felt fatigued after completing "A View from My Balcony 1," I am now brimming with fresh ideas and visions. I am excited to explore skies and landscapes in more depth. The possibilities for my series are thrilling!


Trusting the Journey


The transition from creating on a digital canvas to holding a printed version may seem seamless, but it involves a journey of trust and discovery. The digital process is intimate and detailed, while the printed version elevates that intimacy.


Each stroke on the screen translates into a vibrant mark in the physical world. This transformation feels sacred, highlighting that every detail I labour over is worth every moment.



After quality inspecting the first print, I can now feel confident that all editions will be of the highest quality.
After quality inspecting the first print, I can now feel confident that all editions will be of the highest quality.

Looking Ahead


Seeing my recent artwork printed was a revelation. It transformed my fatigue into renewed inspiration, reigniting my creative spark and allowing me to reflect on the delightful art-making process.


As I think about the future of “A View from My Balcony” and whether to expand it into a series, one truth stands out: the magic of seeing my artwork in print is just the beginning of an exciting journey. I look forward to new projects, exploring landscapes, and perhaps diving back into the thrilling realm of the sublime.


So, here’s to the power of art—its ability to surprise, inspire, and lead us down new paths we never knew existed!

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