Danny’s Essays are like getting a letter from a good friend who is not only wise but also funny. They always seem to be just what I need to keep me going creatively. — Linda P

Danny’s essays banish that Bad Monkey of guilt and fear of judgment.  No failure, just opportunities to advance your artistic experience. — Daria G

We all know what we need (practice) to draw well — but it helps to read Danny’s gentle words reminding me that I can extend kindness to creative endeavors and the day. Mr Gregory has taught me to breathe and enjoy the process as much as he’s taught me to draw. — Amy J.

I’m definitely looking forward to your book, I’ll be sure to give a few as gifts! I’m a big fan of your essays, it’s usually just what I needed to hear…just at the right time! Love your work, man — Vicki D

Danny's Essays help remind me that I'm not the only one who goes through the doubt and the fear, and something about the way he writes helps me look at my setbacks as part of the process. Thank you, Danny, for your down-to-earth wisdom. — The Heron Now

I am deeply grateful to Danny for sharing his personal creative journey in this collection of essays. His honest and inspiring exploration of drawing, especially his reflections on the value of keeping sketchbooks and of self-compassionate self-critique, has not only helped me find my own artistic voice but has also better equipped me to guide my students in discovering their own. This book is a true gift for anyone seeking authentic fulfillment and self-expression through art. — Dan W.

I've been a subscriber since the beginning of Danny's Essays. These motivational essays give me pause, make me laugh and make me feel like Danny is speaking directly to me. — Monica M.

I just wanted you to know what a lifesaver your essays and videos have been to me.  I sit here at my husband’s bedside as he goes thru his last few days of life.  You gave me permission to finally begin “playing” freely with my numerous blank sketchbooks.  I no longer feel they have to be perfect. I can sketch anywhere. I don't need hours dedicated to it.  It is ok to just sketch my foot, a salt shaker, etc. You freed me and my creativity which then brought me JOY in this darkest hour. Thank you so much. —Kathy G.

Danny’s essays are a compilation of an extraordinary life, an art-filled business, common sense, and self-denigrating humor. Overall, I read him because he is just a hoot! — Carollee F.

Your essays and your books give us permission to be the creative people our hearts are yearning to be. You have taught me personally that filling sketchbooks is like writing a love letter to myself, telling me that this part of my soul needs to be nurtured and loved. I have always been an artist, but you have helped me to approach my creative process with my whole heart and not just part of it, and to be true to ourselves. — Janis M.

The most important thing that Danny's Essays taught me is this: that a filled sketchbook is an end in and of itself. A filled sketchbook is both a portable art gallery and a snapshot of who I was at the time. That's the biggest influence on my art, and it will continue to do so. — Garrett

I enjoy the weekly essays very much! I read every little (or big 😁) word hearing your voice in my mind, recreating every inflection and picturing your smile. You look and sound like a super cool uncle, the one that encourages you to try and be as cool as him 😎 i swear that i wait every friday to see your name in my inbox 😇 Thank you for being my exquisite and captivating virtual uncle - who's a hell of an artist 😉❤️🌻 — Claudio G.

I can never resist Danny's weekly essay, even when I'm rushed off my feet. They hide so many pearls of wisdom and never fail to make me smile and laugh. I've even cried and raged, sharing Danny's highs and lows. Thank you, Danny for being so open; thank you for never failing to make me react. Thank you for the weekly inspiration, for the way you poke my thoughts and make me reach for my sketchbook. Thank you. — Lisa S.

Danny’s perspective on drawing and encouragement to continue no matter what it looks like, see it through ‘til the end, has opened my eyes and heart to the beauty of creativity at any level. I am a proud mediocre artist who sometimes is shocked by a piece I have made that I may have never completed without his piece on perfectionism. Thanks, Danny — Kathy Y.

The first Danny’s Essay I read stated that if you make art, you are an artist. I am a poet who, of course, has self-doubt. His essay encouraged me to believe that if I write poems, I’m a poet. Now I write every day, knowing I have that freedom. — Christine Y.

I have all of Dannys books, and when I found out he was writing another one, I knew I wanted it! All of his books are so full of inspiration and his knowledge and experience with art. The illustrations are always so colorful and lovely to look at, and his books are really fun to read. I am a subscriber to Danny's Essays, and it is something I look forward to every Friday. I feel inspired to keep practicing my art because of Danny! I subscribe to a handful of artist/creatives emails, and his is by far my favorite! Give it a try... you won't be disappointed! — Diana P.

As a long-time subscriber to Danny Gregory’s essays, I benefit from his thoughtful perspective on creativity, art making, and the human experience. His personal narratives encourage me to self-reflect on my own practice and embrace my artistic journey, both as a visual artist and writer. Through the essays, I feel connected to a community of like-minded creators while benefitting from seeking beauty in everyday life. — Cindy M.

Danny's Essays bring me a little good cheer every week. It's a good-natured share from a sensible, likeable neighbour. Call it 'achievable inspiration', if you like, but it's kindly, unfussy and gentle - who wouldn't enjoy that kind of encouragement? — Patti G.

I can see myself in so many of Danny’s experiences. His essays describe the roadblocks I face as an older person & newer artist and also introduce me to ideas that get me thinking and creating in new ways. His essay about how he draws self-portraits gave me the courage to just keep drawing faces even though I’m not good at that…yet, and the realization that my drawings don’t have to be pretty to be meaningful. — Debbie A

When I was deciding on a career path, everyone continued to tell me that I couldn't paint and study science at the same time. 'Why not bring your many interests and talents together to create one sparkling diamond?' was a new way of thinking that stopped me from giving up on my passions! I'll be forever thankful to Danny for his essays, which help keep me going! — Mosarrat Z.

Danny shares raw honesty…and I feel that I am less alone when I read his essays. I like his empathetic approach to new ideas, confusion, and even personal difficulties like when he is struggling to write an essay. He once put a call out for his readers to join him live while he composed an essay. Again, honest in his vulnerability.  — Jeanie B.

Danny’s Essays keep me buoyant when my creative juices are drying up. I have a particularly vociferous British critic in my head, and it helps to hear ways of ignoring it and making some art. Thank you for the regularity of your essays and your positivity. — Sue JDanny’s Essays are like getting a letter from a good friend who is not only wise but also funny. They always seem to be just what I need to keep me going creatively. — Linda P

Danny’s essays banish that Bad Monkey of guilt and fear of judgment.  No failure, just opportunities to advance your artistic experience. — Daria G

We all know what we need (practice) to draw well — but it helps to read Danny’s gentle words reminding me that I can extend kindness to creative endeavors and the day. Mr Gregory has taught me to breathe and enjoy the process as much as he’s taught me to draw. — Amy J.

I’m definitely looking forward to your book, I’ll be sure to give a few as gifts! I’m a big fan of your essays, it’s usually just what I needed to hear…just at the right time! Love your work, man — Vicki D

Danny's Essays help remind me that I'm not the only one who goes through the doubt and the fear, and something about the way he writes helps me look at my setbacks as part of the process. Thank you, Danny, for your down-to-earth wisdom. — The Heron Now

I am deeply grateful to Danny for sharing his personal creative journey in this collection of essays. His honest and inspiring exploration of drawing, especially his reflections on the value of keeping sketchbooks and of self-compassionate self-critique, has not only helped me find my own artistic voice but has also better equipped me to guide my students in discovering their own. This book is a true gift for anyone seeking authentic fulfillment and self-expression through art. — Dan W.

I've been a subscriber since the beginning of Danny's Essays. These motivational essays give me pause, make me laugh and make me feel like Danny is speaking directly to me. — Monica M.

I just wanted you to know what a lifesaver your essays and videos have been to me.  I sit here at my husband’s bedside as he goes thru his last few days of life.  You gave me permission to finally begin “playing” freely with my numerous blank sketchbooks.  I no longer feel they have to be perfect. I can sketch anywhere. I don't need hours dedicated to it.  It is ok to just sketch my foot, a salt shaker, etc. You freed me and my creativity which then brought me JOY in this darkest hour. Thank you so much. —Kathy G.

Danny’s essays are a compilation of an extraordinary life, an art-filled business, common sense, and self-denigrating humor. Overall, I read him because he is just a hoot! — Carollee F.

Your essays and your books give us permission to be the creative people our hearts are yearning to be. You have taught me personally that filling sketchbooks is like writing a love letter to myself, telling me that this part of my soul needs to be nurtured and loved. I have always been an artist, but you have helped me to approach my creative process with my whole heart and not just part of it, and to be true to ourselves. — Janis M.

The most important thing that Danny's Essays taught me is this: that a filled sketchbook is an end in and of itself. A filled sketchbook is both a portable art gallery and a snapshot of who I was at the time. That's the biggest influence on my art, and it will continue to do so. — Garrett

I enjoy the weekly essays very much! I read every little (or big 😁) word hearing your voice in my mind, recreating every inflection and picturing your smile. You look and sound like a super cool uncle, the one that encourages you to try and be as cool as him 😎 i swear that i wait every friday to see your name in my inbox 😇 Thank you for being my exquisite and captivating virtual uncle - who's a hell of an artist 😉❤️🌻 — Claudio G.

I can never resist Danny's weekly essay, even when I'm rushed off my feet. They hide so many pearls of wisdom and never fail to make me smile and laugh. I've even cried and raged, sharing Danny's highs and lows. Thank you, Danny for being so open; thank you for never failing to make me react. Thank you for the weekly inspiration, for the way you poke my thoughts and make me reach for my sketchbook. Thank you. — Lisa S.

Danny’s perspective on drawing and encouragement to continue no matter what it looks like, see it through ‘til the end, has opened my eyes and heart to the beauty of creativity at any level. I am a proud mediocre artist who sometimes is shocked by a piece I have made that I may have never completed without his piece on perfectionism. Thanks, Danny — Kathy Y.

The first Danny’s Essay I read stated that if you make art, you are an artist. I am a poet who, of course, has self-doubt. His essay encouraged me to believe that if I write poems, I’m a poet. Now I write every day, knowing I have that freedom. — Christine Y.

I have all of Dannys books, and when I found out he was writing another one, I knew I wanted it! All of his books are so full of inspiration and his knowledge and experience with art. The illustrations are always so colorful and lovely to look at, and his books are really fun to read. I am a subscriber to Danny's Essays, and it is something I look forward to every Friday. I feel inspired to keep practicing my art because of Danny! I subscribe to a handful of artist/creatives emails, and his is by far my favorite! Give it a try... you won't be disappointed! — Diana P.

As a long-time subscriber to Danny Gregory’s essays, I benefit from his thoughtful perspective on creativity, art making, and the human experience. His personal narratives encourage me to self-reflect on my own practice and embrace my artistic journey, both as a visual artist and writer. Through the essays, I feel connected to a community of like-minded creators while benefitting from seeking beauty in everyday life. — Cindy M.

Danny's Essays bring me a little good cheer every week. It's a good-natured share from a sensible, likeable neighbour. Call it 'achievable inspiration', if you like, but it's kindly, unfussy and gentle - who wouldn't enjoy that kind of encouragement? — Patti G.

I can see myself in so many of Danny’s experiences. His essays describe the roadblocks I face as an older person & newer artist and also introduce me to ideas that get me thinking and creating in new ways. His essay about how he draws self-portraits gave me the courage to just keep drawing faces even though I’m not good at that…yet, and the realization that my drawings don’t have to be pretty to be meaningful. — Debbie A

When I was deciding on a career path, everyone continued to tell me that I couldn't paint and study science at the same time. 'Why not bring your many interests and talents together to create one sparkling diamond?' was a new way of thinking that stopped me from giving up on my passions! I'll be forever thankful to Danny for his essays, which help keep me going! — Mosarrat Z.

Danny shares raw honesty…and I feel that I am less alone when I read his essays. I like his empathetic approach to new ideas, confusion, and even personal difficulties like when he is struggling to write an essay. He once put a call out for his readers to join him live while he composed an essay. Again, honest in his vulnerability.  — Jeanie B.

Danny’s Essays keep me buoyant when my creative juices are drying up. I have a particularly vociferous British critic in my head, and it helps to hear ways of ignoring it and making some art. Thank you for the regularity of your essays and your positivity. — Sue J

Have you ever felt like an author knew your deep inner thoughts? That is how I feel when I read Danny’s essays. Not only does Danny perfectly express what I am feeling, he also gives me ways to think about how I could change to make myself better. For example, his essay “My Perfect Life,” challenges us to imagine what life could be like if we would just embrace our imperfections and stop worrying about them all the time. How freeing that feeling would be! And his essay “Vincent and the Monkey” beautifully expresses that we cannot know how our work may impact others (or the world) if we let that old "monkey on our back" convince us to stop creating. Those words made me realize that I am worthy of creating art, even though it is imperfect. Maybe even I can impact someone. You will want to read Danny's essays over and over because they are full of practical wisdom and they are so motivating. — Alexis R

These essays are about art. They are also about life. They discuss why to draw more often than what to draw. They describe the reality of being creative even when, as Danny puts it, life puts its muddy boots on the sofa. They describe living life creatively as well as living a creative life. These essays give you permission to find your passion and, as Danny says, make a commitment to who you truly are. *P.S. Did I mention, they’re also fun to read?* — Lesley M

The day I received Danny's essay, **The Power of Weird**, I knew he was a Kindred Spirit. Like him, I moved outside the world of "normal", reading obscure books and teaching myself whatever I wanted to learn. In celebrating the NOT fitting in, Danny not only obliterated my loneliness, but showed me that being ME, weirdness and all, was wonderful. — Lori F

When one of Danny’s Friday Essays really speaks to my muse, I’ll put it in my art journal.

I’m looking at one now that asks “Why?” I do art. He gives a few entertaining examples of motives.

The process of printing out the essay, pasting it in my journal, painting around it, and responding to it helped me understand my motives better.

It brought me a little more understanding, self-acceptance, and freedom. — Marilyn M.

I usually hate newsletters. You get them, usually more or less involuntarily. Danny's newsletters are different. I look forward to them. I read them from cover to cover, usually with a translation aid, so as not to miss anything. They fuel my daily drawing practice. Thank you, Danny! — Mary S.

"The topicsa Danny discusses in his essays always seem to come just when I need them. What he says is authentic, right from the heart, yet practical and thought-provoking, not only for creative types but for anyone. I love his direct, no sense writing style and his sense of humour. My inbox is all the richer for his ’scribblings.’ — Johanne Y.

I think it is easy to say, you are my art guru. I have found value in so many of your “offerings.” Much success to you and your new book! Can’t wait to grab myself a copy! —Amy N.

I discovered Danny's YouTube videos and essays somewhere during the fog after my mom passed earlier this year.  Last summer (before I found the videos), I started drawing pictures of stuff in my backyard in a journal - just for the sake of drawing - an area where I never really thought I was adept.  It turns out that I am decent at it and I enjoy it.   Danny's videos and essays encourage me to keep drawing and improving.  My daily habit of drawing in a sketchbook gives me confidence in my own creativity and helps me along the path of grief and this new season of life. —Julia L

One of the many challenges people face when making art is the inner critic.  In Danny's essay, "How to Turn a Bad Drawing Into a Great Lesson," (April 2020, reposted Jan 20, 2023), I've discovered that the critic can help me ask questions and develop steps to make my drawing better and my skills stronger. Everyone has bad drawings, but if we quit, even for a day, we'll miss an opportunity to get better and feel better, about our next drawing. This inspiring and funny essay is one of my favorites. —Cat B

As an older man but still determined to improve my drawing, your best words to me were about perfection. Your essay made me have a dawn moment. No one is born great at anything! Even the best musicians artists writers athletes …you name it had to start out “ not so great” It then dawned on me that I just need to start practicing daily and its almost impossible not to improve. Improvement fuels a smile on the face. — Mark L

It's difficult to say which essay has been the best one for me because each one seems better than the last! Generally, I enjoy reading and listening to all of them and they've helped me to keep going with my art and to enjoy it so much more. You have a natural ability to inspire and make us believe we can do it. You're so generous and genuine with sharing your life and so there is a great feeling of trust in you. Therefore, I feel relaxed and enthused and the information effortlessly enters my brain and finds a place to stay to benefit my art and maybe my soul too —Suzanne

When I read Danny’s essays, I have an immediate renewed faith in my ability to make art because I can relate to his trials, perils, successes and random sparks of genius. I’ve followed Danny from his first book and he and Sketchbook Skool are the reason I picked my art supplies back up and started making art again. If you need renewed faith in down-to-earth real art talk you will love the essays!  Maybe not every one, but who likes every one of anything except cookies. — Pamela

Danny’s essays range from the inspiring and motivating to the amusing and thought-provoking; my own favorites are the deeply personal, honest and vulnerable explorations of himself as an artist, as a man with a complicated history, and as a flawed human doing his best in a crazy world. — Amy A

In our daily life, we may struggle to make time for art and tend to think that we need the right moment, supplies and a lot of time to do it, but, actually we don't! Moreover, we compare our work with other's works - which always seem to be much better than ours. That way, we leave art behind instead of embracing the art experience and the happy moments. I used to do that. Later, I found some inspiration and words from experience in these essays that made me realize that I should focus on myself, learn and go on on my creative journey. — Carla R

Danny’s Essays have inspired me to get into a regular routine of sketching.  A routine that doesn’t stress you out to be perfect but just happy that you made something. His essays at times are humorous, heart tugging and educational.  He teaches you to enjoy the ride of creativity in any form that life puts in your path. — Pamela B.

I always look forward to reading Danny's essays. I know I'm going to be getting something witty and heartfelt. I especially appreciate the reminders to keep trying and how small things grow with time. Thanks for being an encouraging voice in my head. — Arika L.

You've helped me overcome my fear of sketching and inspired me to pick up a pencil and get drawing. although I'm not that good right now, but I'm definitely better than yesterday. — Neha P

Danny’s thoughts on daily life bring me back to the simple, quiet, inner world of my own thoughts and feelings. He makes me feel good about being a human. —Annie M

If I were still teaching English classes, I'd be bringing printed copies of Danny's essays to class. They pop and sizzle with snappy word choices and unexpected examples. And sometimes they are snort-your-coffee funny. ... — Kim B

Danny, you are a gift to all of us wannabes. You encourage, support, recognize our fears and praise our efforts. I’ve been a fan of Sketchbook Skool since the beginning, and learn something new every time I watch you…and you have searched out and shared so many artists from all over the world. I feel like I have a whole new circle of friends. Thank you. —Nancy V.

My perspective was changed after listening to so many of your essays because you express your innermost feelings and dare to share them with us every week. Hearing that I don’t have to be perfect or have a particular “style” has led me to enjoy sketching even more than before. Daring to try different mediums and learning the processes of other artists only helps me grow my confidence and have fun. —Diane DB.

Danny and I have many things in common; our age, our history with grief and moving around a lot, and finding out how much fun art is once we stopped trying to make it a commercial success. I love reading Danny's newsletter, and my favorite part is the links to interesting and fascinating subjects and websites. I'm happy and honored to consider myself one of Danny's Pals. — Marjorie S.

Reading Danny's essays has helped me remember that I am not alone in the everyday struggles we artists have with our particular creative journeys. Reading his letters is like having an artist friend with whom you can have coffee and discuss creativity with. ~Y. Mendez

It sometimes gets a little testy, here in the tomb of the unknown creative, thanks to the inner critic and monkey mind. Your weekly mind reading trick, coupled with the ability to always hit the nail on the head, delivers A wise old uncle’s sage advice wrapped in the reassuring comfort of a parent’s soothing tone. Makes me wish I had access to this when I was young… But I probably wouldn’t have listened. — rob

Danny's essays are not just for artists but for everyone who's looking to add some joy, wonder, and peace to their lives. His radical suggestion that you commit to your art for the next two years has reignited my writing practice. Such a simple idea but so full of potential. If you had to read just one book to find meaning, joy or purpose, make it this one." —Ratika D

Danny’s Essays have taught me the importance, the beauty and complexity (or simplicity) of sketchbook art. mYour sketchbook is a valuable friend.  As Danny says, “My sketchbook is a forgiving companion’… ‘It always welcomes me back with open pages, and I am grateful for its friendship’. ,It’s the personal trials and tribulations of committing to the practise of art, daily, and in a sketchbook that is the most important element of the Essays. The incentives and positive reinforcement are wonderful, Danny tells us, ‘Drawing depends on muscles’.  So, you’ve just got to get on with it! Always, a wonderful part of my week/day - to read the Essays.  Can’t wait for the book. — Jane G

“Art makes people feel we’re not alone” . (2/6/26. “I want to be honest”) This phrase inspired me sooo much. I was in a creativity black hole and your essay reminded  me how much I still have to offer with my paintings. — Rossy F

Danny's insights have become mine. My drawing is now (and finally!) a habit, and it feels I started a new life. I now see art and the beauty of the world everywhere. Thank you! —Erik B

Danny's essays? Glorious Morse code! Danny Gregory has given his creativity a focus and continues to cultivate that spirit every day. For people who share this philosophy: Life Art Letters! —Ditta L.

Danny’s essays are like a note from a dear friend who, by honestly sharing his own frustrations and successes, makes you feel better about yourself and encourages you to feel less stressed about your own struggles. So glad he is there for me! —Carrie S

I love to tell people about your essays. The thing I most picture in my head when I fail to do what I really like to do, drawing, is a big ugly baboon! Danny put this image in my head, being a ‘monkey in your head’. Brilliant, because now I can chase it away if i make myself crazy with all those negative thoughts the monkey makes! —Alice B

I'd like to drop a line to express my appreciation of your weekly inspiration. I hope I can give back a little of what you have given me through your thoughts and love of art. I look forward to further encouragement and inspiration on this channel and wish you every success with your new book. —Christoph L

I genuinely have a freedom with making art because of reading and listening to Danny’s essays.  “How to win by Losing” is a relatable essay about being true to oneself.  To continue pursuing your dreams and ambitions despite the fear of failure and by doing so have your own success. — Laura M

Once a week, something strange happens at my place. All of a sudden, things go quiet. Slow down. A voice of reason, a celebration of common sense, showcasing the little highlights life sends our way. Lowlights, too. Heartfelt insights in a casual wrap. Between ‚Hi Thomas‘ and ‚Your pal Danny‘, Fridays come with a few precious moments of inspiration and enjoyment. TGIF. — Thomas R.

Danny's essays are a wonderful balance between playful creativity and supportive tough-love, vulnerable and charming. They are gifts of the heart. — Ellen S.

can’t wait to pick up a copy of Danny’s new collection of essays!  I’ve always enjoyed his voice, his willingness to poke fun at himself, and his uncanny way of knowing just what I need to read.  His essay “How to Draw Like a Dog” reminds me that I can always come back to my truest self and practice the “trick” I’ve learned, how to draw, but mostly how to live. —Stacy W.

Reading an essay from Danny is like reading a message from an artist pal because that is exactly who he is: an artist who talks to his fellow artists about what it really takes to develop an art practice. He brings to us the kinds of conversations we need to support each other on the art journey. — Nancy B.

How my sketchbook helped me heal" is one of the best essays that Danny has ever wrote that everyone should be eagerly to read that healed me too. It doesn't matter whether you're young, old, rich or poor but at one moment, you'll have to face problems. And I don't know how these terrible moments have traumatized not only me but also my little brothers and sisters.

Wondering how I healed? Well, when I read this powerful essay, I was challenged and I kept on wondering how sketching everyday could make me forget problems. I then gave it a try and each time I picked a pen and a sketchbook, I found myself not thinking about the past nor things I was doing in the few minutes ago. In fact, I felt I was in the 'NOW' and I can't tell what caused that. And each time am lonely, frustrated or weak, I start drawing because I discovered the "Hidden Peace" — Nakunda W.

Dannys Essays are the highlight of my week, especially the “P.S.’s”.    From them, I’ve learned to order dessert first when dining at restaurants, that Danny has seen Alice Cooper in his "natural habitat", and that you can turn fun into broccoli.    (I've always wondered about Alice Cooper's habitat.)    Danny reminds me that making art is about quieting your mind, creating something and enjoying the process, whether the art you produce gets recycled with the broccoli, decorates the broccoli seed packet, or hangs in the museum next to works by Giuseppe Arcimboldo.  I've also learned that Danny doesn't eat enough vegetables; maybe he can try some broccoli and turn it into fun, I've read his essay that says the opposite is possible. — Linda Z

One of Danny's essays spoke to me at a time when I was feeling down. The message - 'Make art to express your feelings.' And I did. —Colleen N.