All week I’ve been working on this drawing and considering how I would announce it. The line ‘In the Pink’ kept popping into my head. But I kept rejecting it because it felt somehow off. Until finally I asked myself: What does that line actually mean?
Then of course my mind spun off about other phrases we say without thinking. Maybe it sounds silly, but tell me, why exactly does the mustard need to be cut? The skin of my teeth, am I supposed to moisturize? And what exactly is inside that sack we all like to hit?
In the pink. The allusion was one I wasn’t sure I wanted to make. And so I did what I imagine any of us would do: I asked the internet, and got this: In the pink is an expression that describes a state of good health, well-being, or a positive financial position. In the pink signifies that there is a reason to be optimistic.
Cool.
And yet... The world is clearly a messed up place. For more reasons than my brain can deal with. But you know what? F*ck it. I’m not going to let it get me down. I like being optimistic. Because when you let something get you down, it’s won—whatever the it is. And I don’t feel like being beaten. And you shouldn’t either.
So here it is then. A new Sutro drawing from 23rd Street in San Francisco. I’m calling it In the Pink. And if you know the reference, then for-absolutely-sure you should not be beaten. You should be the opposite of beaten. You should be victorious. Be proud, be free, and f*ck em if they try to keep you down.
The original of this image has sold, but you can own a print. Available here.
Rock on
– Paul
Note to anyone who received this in their email: I made a typo in the email version. I'd written: You should be the opposite of not beaten. When I meant to say: The opposite of beaten. I assume everyone knew my intent, but wanted to note it. It's fixed on the archived version
Love this - thank you!