Fat Pencil Powered

Imperfect art and words by Val Cline.

I loved being a kid in the ’70s. I was mostly left to my own devices and had plenty of adventures. I liked school because that’s where my friends, picture books, and arts and crafts were. At some point, though, I discovered I struggled with things my peers didn’t. For instance, one of my first memories is of handwriting. I was the only kid in my class still using “the FAT pencil,” while others had already moved on to fancy ballpoint pens.

Why?

Because my handwriting strayed off the lines, collapsing the spindles of letters onto themselves, wandering wayward—up, up, up and diagonally—away from the start, often making no sense.

I felt some shame back then. I’m still embarrassed when I have to fill out forms or show others my handwriting. I only print, and after 50 years of practice, I’ve learned I can print decently with a marker or thick felt-tipped pen. I think the “tooth” grounds my wobbly, errant hand and clumsy fine motor tuning.

Teachers dismissed me as lazy or careless when I couldn’t finish exams on time, my books went unread, and my homework was unfinished or illegible. I worked hard, but my grades never matched my efforts. I felt dumb, but at the same time, I knew I wasn’t.

Anyone with learning disabilities will relate to what I’ve said here.

I was fortunate and assessed for learning disabilities at 21 while at university, and the information I received at that time unlocked a lifelong journey of self-acceptance.

I enjoy writing simple, unbound poetry and short ramblings and thoughts - as it frees my brain from some of the strain and time it takes to organize a thought on paper.

My Art

I paint abstract art, landscapes, and various creatures—mostly birds these days, but I’ve been exploring watercolour, too. I love working with colour, texture, and the magic of layers. I use various materials—oil, acrylics, pastels, ink, pencils, wax—whatever piques my curiosity.

For me, creating is soul work. It’s a way to connect with the human experience on this earth and the preciousness of life. I also write on Substack, where I’d love to connect with you if you’re interested.

I love all creatures. HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) INFJ. Introvert.