UPDATE: Dad Photoshops Kids’ Drawings Into Reality and the Results are Unreal

In 2018, we introduced you to Tom Curtis’s wonderful and occasionally unsettling world of “Things I Have Drawn,” where this talented dad brings kids’ drawings to life using Photoshop. In 2018, Tom’s art (inspired by his two artistic sons, Al and Dom) took off, accumulating over 120,000 followers on Instagram. Just two years later, Tom’s art is more far-reaching than ever – with nearly 800,000 Instagram followers, Tom has experienced a level of success he never imagined. But most importantly, he continues to inspire the creativity of kids around the world.
Originally, Tom had used art drawn by his two sons to create his masterpieces. Now, the Things I Have Drawn universe has expanded, thanks to Tom opening his heart and DMs to user submissions.
Tom told The Dad, “We get loads of drawings DMed to us on Instagram. Far more than I can possibly hope to ‘make real’ given they take so long to do. That said, if anyone fancies sending their children’s drawings, and won’t be disappointed if their kids’ picture isn’t chosen (sorry in advance if that’s the case) I’m interested in doing a sad polar bear, as well as an acoustic guitar, because Al is learning to play at the moment.”
After seeing Tom’s art, it’s immediately evident why companies are clamoring for his attention, and why one fan even got a tattoo of a Tom Original. His art is not only impressive, but it’s endearing. It showcases the incredible imaginations children have, and inspires creativity in kids and adults alike. Though some people who reach this level of success may try to turn the spotlight on themselves, Tom has never had that inclination.
“The main thing about Things I Have Drawn is that I love doing our funny little pictures, so I keep on doing them, and keep on sharing them,” he explained. “I’m very passionate about kids’ creativity and am worried about it being threatened by all sorts of things – from art education not being prioritised in UK schools, to a lack of funding in the arts in general in the UK, as well as the lack of opportunities for young people to enter into the creative industries.”
To ensure his page remains a place of inspiration, Tom makes sure kids run the show when it comes to Things I Have Drawn. Sure, he’s the wizard that brings imagination to life, but kids are the brains behind the operation.
“One day I want to use the platform I have to find a way to make a more meaningful statement about how we can encourage children to be more creative, and give them opportunities they might not otherwise have.”
Though he hopes to do more in the future, Tom is already doing a pretty stellar job of invigorating the creativity of anyone who stumbles upon his art. Don’t believe us? See for yourself.
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