Hey Sharpie, Meet Michael Davenport

Michael Davenport is an artist that lost both his arms. He holds his pens in his mouth, and the work he does is amazing. I couldn't do even a fraction of what he does with both my hands.

I bought this drawing from him three years ago.

The first time I saw Michael Davenport, I was going into the Olive Garden in Athens on Atlanta Highway. I had never seen or heard of him before, so I had no idea why he was drawing a picture holding the pens in his mouth.

When we came back out, the picture was done, and it was amazing. I couldn't have drawn that with my hands no matter how many times I tried. It looked like he had traced it, but I know it wasn't because we watched him draw as he started another one.

I hadn’t even been at UGA a full month when I got the drawing, and I'm pretty sure it was the first paraphernalia I had ever gotten.

On Michael’s website, it says that he lost his arms when he was thirteen years old due to an electrical accident. He sells his drawings, and that’s how he makes his living.  But it truly is astonishing to me that not many people outside of Athens and Atlanta don't know about him. His talent is incredible and he has overcome so much adversity. He should be an inspiration to everyone, not just the small area of Athens and Atlanta.

His story reminded me of a Sharpie commercial I saw once. It was this guy who drew on cups and sold them.

I write this because a few weeks ago, someone stole all of Mr. Davenport’s supplies. I don't know what kind of person would steal his things, but it warms my heart to hear about all the support the people of Athens have been giving him.

His story just makes me think about all the people out there making making money from their talents (or not talents, cough cough, Kardashians), and I feel like Michael Davenport should be one of those people. He does such a amazing job and has such a cool story. I think everyone should know about him.

So Sharpie. If I were you, I'd take note and give this guy some attention. Not only does he deserve it, it would be a really great story to run with. Wink, wink, Sharpie. I'm giving you some free advice here. I suggest you take it.

So that's my pitch to Sharpie. Take it or leave it. But please, please, please take it!

XOXO Ness