Meet the poetic sketcher Sheila Darcey
Sheila Darcey believes that art healed her soul, and everything she does to share the powerful tool of self-care with the world. Her unique drawing style is intuitive, abstract and organic, and covers the page with flourishes and flush of details in a way that evokes surrealistic automatic drawing. It is made in a flow mode as part of a daily practice similar to Morning Pages, except visually, and with compelling results that hold their place on any gallery wall, bespoke object or recently, NFT auction. (She also hosts Arts & Healing, one of the only truly safe spaces on Clubhouse.) Her new book Sketch for Sketch guides readers to create a daily drawing practice that moves a stressed consciousness to a place of calm, expressiveness and truth; and her new crypto project Heal Coin pay tribute to creators, collaborators and collectors who are passionate about holistic well-being.
Sheila Darcey: Art in Motion | The magic of creation
LA WEEKLY: When did you first know you were an artist?
SHEILA DARCEY: As a small child, I intuitively embraced my artist self. However, I did not claim the title as an artist until the 40s. When I first let go of society’s expectations and definitions, being an artist felt more like wearing a comfortable sweater than a pair of glasses of slippers.
What is your short answer to people asking what your job is about?
Through art, I can sketch myself through complex emotions and process both my conscious, unconscious and unconscious thoughts. The benefit of this practice is evident in my mental and emotional well-being. It is a therapeutic tool that helps me process anxiety and trauma. It has become my mission to share this practice with the world and help others find their own path.
Sheila Darcey: Unleash the dragon
Did you go to art school? Why / why not?
I switched my major from computer science to graphic design during my sophomore year of college. It was the first time I ever followed my heart. It was a life-defining decision that would eventually lead to my journey as SketchPoetical.
What would you do if you were not an artist?
I do the same today. After completing a BFA, I neglected my artist self for almost two decades. Instead, I pursued a career in the digital agency space as a consultant and facilitator. Today, I use my business skills to build a bridge between technology, art and healing.
What’s your next project?
My upcoming book Sketch by sketch: A creative path to emotional healing and transformation released by Macmillan and Hay House UK is scheduled to be released on December 28th. I plan to do that 28 days with Giveaways from 1 – 28 December up to the launch.
Which living or dead artist would you most like to show or work with?
It’s a battle between Frida Kahlo and Georgia O’Keeffe, two strong, talented and dynamic people. I admire Frida for turning her pain into art. The presence of her suffering is always present in many of her works. I connect deeply with the emotional quality of her style and process. I admire Georgia in her masterful handling of watercolor and soulful connection to Mother Earth. Many of my ethereal watercolor and ink pieces are reminiscent of her work.
Do you listen to music while working? If so, what?
I tend to draw with ambient noise as music can evoke emotions that can affect or distract from what it is I am really feeling. But I love doing with musicians and have recently done so with False and Terra Naomi.
Socials, thank you!
IG @sketchy poetic
Twitter @sheiladarcey
Sheila Darcey: Emotional expression
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