A peek into an artists’ sketchbook is like a peek into their soul and the framework of their creative process. You can catch a glimpse of creative directions not taken, lines that lead to artistic dead ends and how one shape informs another. Sketchbooks allow creatives to work without the specter of perfectionism. They are a sandbox where the imagination of the artist can play.

That’s why we wanted to celebrate May 20 — Notebook Day — by inviting Queen City creatives to share some snapshots of their notebooks and sketchpads. A diverse array of artists answered the call, and we’re fascinated. Below are some of the submissions we received … and a few favorites we added.

Naji Alali

See More of Naji’s Work

IG: @najiarts 
WEB: lmnbck.com

Bad Genius

See More of Bad Genius’ Work

IG: @BadGenius
ETSY: etsy.com/shop/BadGenius

Matthew Clayburn

See More of Matthew Clayburn’s Work

IG: @matthewclayburn
WEB: matthewclayburn.com

Dink IIII

See More of Dink’s Work

IG: @dink3rd 

Nada Esmaeel

See More of Nada’s Work

IG: @nadasink 
ETSY: etsy.com/shop/nadasink

Dustin Harbin

See More of Dustin’s Work

IG: @dharbin 
WEB: dharbin.com

Corrie Liotta

See More of Corrie’s Work

IG: @corrieliotta 
ETSY: etsy.com/shop/CorrieLiotta

Emily Little

See More of Emily’s Work

IG: @onlyfromem
ETSY: etsy.com/shop/OnlyFromEm

M.G. Napier

See More of M.G.’s Work

IG: @mgnapierart
BIG CARTEL: hmgnapierart.bigcartel.com

Monica Rief

See More of Monica’s Work

IG: @monicariefstudio 

Craig Stevens

See More of Craig’s Work

IG: @artguycraig 
WEB: artguycraig.com