ABOUT — 40daysofdrawing

40 days of drawing is a project that invites everyone
to collectively commit to a continuous practice over 40 days of daily drawing.
Drawing as an intuitive practice, as a tool to be in the moment, to drop perfectionism,
and to let go of control. The focus goes on the process.
The practice unlocks practice.

The project welcomes everyone to embrace and explore
their personal drawing practice, or start one. Aiming to promote,
inspire and remind that everyone can draw. Also to explore
drawing as a tool to heal, deepen intuition and explore the relationship with oneself.

HOW DID IT START

BACK IN 2021

In 2021, I had a burnout and during my recovery months I drew a lot. I wanted to be off screens and use my hands, connect with my creativity and let go of perfectionism. Slowly but surely, the practice shown me to be an amazing tool to go into difficult emotional and mental places. I realised that, with the right intention, I could use it as a tool to express what i could not otherwise.

With that in mind and inspired by the 40 days of practice promoted by Father Bronques via the mystery school, I decided to start the year of 2022 with 40 days of drawing. It consisted in drawing 3 (A5) pages first thing in the morning for 40 days. Committing to continuity felt like a good exercise to test if something would actually change in my practice and mindset.

WHAT I LEARNED

4 min. READ

About The creative industry burnout culture,
and the importance of continuous artistic practice to stay sane.

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR

ANA RITA SOUSA

Ana Rita Sousa, started 40 Days of Drawing in 2021 while recovering from burnout. Drawing became essential for this healing proccess, helping her visualize and express stuck emotions and creativity.

After having had lots of interest and curiosity by friends and followers who accompany her proccess on IG, she decided to start a platform to connect others with the practice of 40 days of drawing in 2023.

Ana Rita is a Senior Art Director and Creative Lead based in Amsterdam, currently working at adidas. With over 12 years of experience, she helps brands refine their cultural and artistic relevance, focusing on crafting narratives that
foster authentic and inclusive connections, particularly with women and female-identifying audiences. She believes in creating selfless environments and collaborations, promoting space where she facilitates and guides others, allowing creative practices to unfold smoothly
and inspiringly.