July 27, 2011

Use It Up

I've been wanting to incorporate some hand drawn type into a piece for a while, so last weekend I spent some time with my sketch book and scanner and this was the result:

use it up

"Use it up, wear it out. Make it do, or do without." I've always loved the slogan, and it's just as relevant (if not more so) now than it was 70 years ago. But lately it's taken on a deeper meaning for me. It serves as a reminder to make the most out of the hand we've drawn and the life we've been given. I want to wring every last drop of beauty and love and passion out of my time on this big, flawed, gorgeous rock. So many people waste their whole lives wallowing in self pity and misery because they feel stuck in their circumstances, desperately wanting to lay the blame for their unhappiness and struggles anywhere but at their own feet. Meanwhile, life passes them by until it's too late. I don't want to leave any room for regret on my deathbed. This life is the only one I'll get, and I'm going to use it up and wear it out.

5 comments:

Holly said...

This slogan is great, but what you've done with it is even better! The hand-drawn lettering is so beautiful and representative of your personality. Are you going to sell it as a print in your shop? I think it'd do well!

Robin Thomas said...

Love, love, love...

AJ Bindel said...

Oh Holly, this is perfect in every way. Your hand drawn lettering is gorgeous, and I agree with this slogan too. Unfortunately, I tend to be the type of person who wallows. Old habits die hard, I guess. But beautiful messages like the one you've created here, and your words remind me that it's much better to pick yourself up and keep living.

JaneA said...

Thank-you so much for this post. This is something I really needed to hear. Sometimes (especially this year, as it is completely crazy) I feel a little 'stuck in circumstances.' But you know what, each day is still pretty darn amazing, and I really need to hold on to that thought. Thanks again! Love your blog.

JDStar said...

I love this! The slogan is just what I've been trying to do lately. And your work is beautiful! I want something with this on it! A brush, a compact, something I can carry in my bag and use all the time! PLEAAAAAAASeee!!! :)