My 2TB backup drive, which housed three years of my artwork, suffered corruption. Panic surged through me as I frantically searched for my files. I combed through client emails, Google Drive, Dropbox, and various flash drives, hoping to salvage completed artworks or works in progress.

Fortunately, while examining another backup of the corrupted drive, I rediscovered some early pieces. Relief washed over me. I opened Adobe Bridge on my PC to review them, carefully transferring them to my current desktop backup drive for editing and eventual upload to Shutterstock.

As I browsed, I stumbled upon a drawing of a classic Chinese takeout box adorned with an old Chinese tower and ‘thank you’ text. This image triggered memories of the iconic ‘thank you’ grocery bag trend and ‘Arigato’ t-shirts I had seen online. By the way, I recently started relearning Japanese! So, maybe it was fate? :)

I imported the image into Photoshop and began designing. The process was spontaneous, flowing effortlessly like a stream. There was no hesitation or overthinking; I simply let my hand guide the mouse. That’s it. This is how the design came to life.

Have you ever experienced something similar? I’ve heard tales of musicians composing songs on the street, in bed, or even in the bathroom, but I never expected it to happen to me.

It was a truly enjoyable and effortless creative moment, devoid of agonizing deliberation. While I know not every creative session will be like this, I’m confident it will happen again. I just need to keep studying, exploring, and deepening my craft.

Mar. 22, 2025 7:25 PM