@katrina-fowler The story in this is so great! I also just love the pen/linework; it reminds me a bit of Lee's! The energy in this is also compelling, and the composition is fun and engaging. I think the only thing I'm missing is a bit more specific lighting to help lead the eye.
As for your personal dilemma- let me tell you you should keep making art. Get a full-time job if you have to, but keep making art. Don't be too hard on yourself, do it when you can. But you have a lot of real skill here and I really hope you don't give up.
I lost my salaried job in video games last year and, despite being in NYC ("You can't NOT get a job there!") I have been applying for art-related work for 13 months to no avail. Then my husband lost his job as well. So, now I'm working full-time in retail (pittance pay, no benefits) and part-time at a construction site, and take on the occasional freelance gig here and there. If I get one finished illustration a month done, I consider that an achievement. but I, like you, can't seem to part from my creator ways. At this point, I'm not expecting to catch my "big break" anytime soon, but every small thing I create I make with a purpose. I'm doing my best to get lots of direction from friends and mentors, and hopefully by the end of this year I'll feel comfortable sending out new postcards/mailers with a slightly better portfolio to show off.
Life happens and it will beat you down, and it's important to take care of yourself. You can't make art if you're starving or living out of a car. But when you can, and if you think it will help make your life a little bit better, please make art. We clearly enjoy seeing what you make.
