How is my relationship with my Muses

The purpose of this early blog is to help you get to know illustrators and artists a little better, in aspects they rarely dare—or wish—to talk about. And now I want to take the opportunity to speak to you about that most intimate moment: when I go to bed. Don’t worry, this isn’t heading where some of you might be thinking…

I’m referring to that instant when I begin entering the REM phase of sleep. That is, the previous phase—known as Stage 1, non-REM phase, or N1. Forgive me for getting all scientific, but I’m fascinated by the fact that this part of sleep is when my mind won’t leave me alone and starts connecting blocks of visual information. And with the same ease with which I devour a handful of cookies, my best illustrations spill out from my mind.

I clearly see colors, compositions, and ways to resolve images I had sketched days—or even months—before in my sketchbook. Or, more surprisingly still, entirely new illustrations, without even needing the notebook. That’s when I have to grab my phone and jot down the idea, or at least make a quick sketch.

Talking about it with other artists—and even with people who don’t consider themselves artists—they tell me their best ideas also tend to come in this phase… or in equally intimate places: the bathroom—whether in the shower or on the toilet. It makes sense: you're relaxed, free from the worries of the day, and naturally slip into a focused state without effort.

As you can see, there are no Muses that show up unannounced and inspire us just as many people think. The trick is recognizing when inspiration comes, analyzing why and when it comes, and from there, seeking out the moment. Maybe that’s why I love sleep so much… because, deep down, I’m never really fully asleep. I’m silently creating.