Equating Art, Fatherhood, and Life

Jan 273 min read

Finding Inspiration Amid the Chaos

"Creativity thrives in the moments we share, the challenges we face, and the growth we embrace. Balance isn’t about perfection it’s about finding joy in the chaos and leveling up every day."

As we inch closer to the possibilities of 2025, I’m finding myself slowly rebuilding, both personally and professionally.

Juggling client projects, working on my own passion projects, and balancing life as a father can be overwhelming, but the little moments make it worthwhile.

One of my favorite escapes is gaming with my daughter. Lately, she’s developed a knack for 2-player co-op games. Our current obsession? Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game, a 4-player beat-’em-up based on Bryan Lee O'Malley's beloved graphic novel.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the world: the game — Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game

It’s become more than just a game; it’s our shared adventure and an unexpected source of inspiration.

The Deep Dive

What’s fascinating is that my daughter isn’t just hooked on the game. She’s captivated by the Scott Pilgrim universe the Netflix anime, the movie, and especially the bold, energetic art style that ties it all together.

It’s clear that the right mix of storytelling and visuals can resonate even with young audiences.

This got me thinking about how graphic novels and stylized animations especially those aimed at younger audiences are thriving in today’s market. They’re not just entertainment; they’re a bridge between generations, a way to connect creativity with relatability.

As an artist, I’ve always believed in the power of stories, but seeing it through my daughter’s eyes reminded me of the importance of creating work that inspires, connects, and brings joy.

But then there’s the funny part: every time a “fat” character or enemy appears on-screen, my daughter yells, “Looks like Daddy!” She laughs, punches my tummy, and mimics the game’s exaggerated blocking animations.

While it’s all in good fun, it was a bit of a wake-up call. A close friend jokingly pointed out that it might be time to prioritize my health.

As much as I’d like to say, “I don’t have time,” the truth is, I need to make time not just for me, but for her.

As a busy father, artist, and gamer, finding time to work on physical health is no easy feat. But just like leveling up in a video game, it’s a challenge worth taking on.

Turning Challenges into Action:

This experience has taught me a few valuable lessons, which I want to share with fellow artists, parents, or anyone balancing creative work and life:

Inspiration Is Everywhere: Whether it’s a video game, a graphic novel, or a spontaneous moment with your child, pay attention to the sparks of creativity around you. Let them fuel your work.
Connect Through Shared Experiences: Spending time with loved ones doing something you both enjoy is priceless. Whether it’s gaming, reading, or simply laughing together, these moments create memories that feed the soul.
Balance Is Key: It’s easy to get lost in work or parenting, but taking care of yourself is just as important. Whether it’s committing to regular exercise, eating better, or carving out “me time,” remember that your well-being is vital for the people you care about and for your creativity.
Be Open to Growth: Sometimes, the hardest challenges are the ones that make you better. Whether it’s tackling a tough project, learning a new skill, or yes shedding a few pounds, view obstacles as opportunities to level up.

As artists, parents, and individuals, we all have our own set of challenges. But like any good co-op game, it’s all about teamwork, perseverance, and finding joy in the journey.

2025 is my next level, and I’m determined to make it count both on the screen and off. Whether it’s creating art that resonates, spending quality time with my daughter, or prioritizing my health, I’m ready to take on the next challenge.

Here’s to leveling up one step (and one game) at a time.

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