I've been away from DA for quite some time now.  I experienced some major changes in my life since my last journal that helped me to gain some insight on myself and what I want to do with my art.  Looking back, I think some distance was necessary after leaving the world of academia-based fine arts.

I got accepted to the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET), and I've been living and working in Japan for two months now in a mid-sized city in the Tohoku region (north of Tokyo on the main island).  I team-teach English to middle-school students along with a Japanese Teacher of English.  As my first "real" job, it's been great!  I can use my art in handouts and other things, and I get to practice Japanese every day.  I've had so many interesting experiences already, whether with miscommunication with my students, matsuri shenanigans, traveling and sightseeing, or trying to figure out which darned meal on the menu doesn't have meat in it (if there is one).  I'd recommend the JET Programme to anyone looking for a fun, rewarding, truly immersive cultural experience.

Luckily this job pays well enough I can build up some savings in case of future economic woes

Wish me luck in Japan, and take care everyone!

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Also, just a reminder that you can buy my comics, "To Destiny" and "Oline and Oleander," for only $5.00 Canadian each! Just send me a note if you'd like one.

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My Friends:

              
                                

Very talented and unique artists who you should totally check out: