The Accidental Masterpiece That Took Over the Internet
The internet has a fascinating way of uplifting art from the most unexpected places. One day, it’s a Renaissance painting; the next, it’s a child’s simple sketch that captures the world’s attention. If you have spent any time on TikTok lately, you may have come across the viral Hyperpigmentation Drawing—a ten-minute portrait drawn by a young girl in 2019 that has since been reimagined in every form, from cookies to tattoos. But beyond its internet fame, this drawing holds a deeper lesson about the beauty of embracing imperfection.
The Hyperpigmentation Drawing—a simple sketch drawn by a young child—became an internet sensation in 2019 but has recently resurfaced on TikTok. Sierra, the artist, initially saw it as a mistake. She was hesitant, unsure of herself. But her mom saw the beauty in it; she saw the creativity, the love, the joy behind it. And the internet? Well, the internet saw it and embraced it, transforming it into a meme, a trend, and even inspiring tattoos, food art, and countless creative interpretations, turning it into something far more meaningful and lasting than anyone could have expected. Not because the drawing is perfect but because it is real and raw. Its creation was a moment of self-expression that resonated with people so much because the artist did not try to hide her flaws but embraced them instead.
We often fall into the trap of believing that if something is not flawless, it is not worth sharing. Whether it is art, a business idea, or an expression of ourselves, we chase perfection and forget to appreciate what makes our creations unique. But the truth is, it is our quirks, flaws, and moments of vulnerability that really matter—they are what people connect with. And honestly, who wants to live in a world full of perfectly polished, cookie-cutter ideas that feel distant, detached, and lacking in personality?
So stop waiting for everything to be perfect before you share it. Stop holding back because you think it’s not “good enough.” The world doesn’t need perfection; it needs authenticity. It needs your real self—messy, raw, unpolished, and all. Take up space. You don’t have to be perfect to be fantastic. You just have to be willing to show up and share your truth, exactly as it is. After all, your unique perspective and your willingness to be perceived as imperfect are what can truly open up spaces for connection and community in the most unexpected places.
Strike out,
Strike St. Louis
Written by: Ashton Burgess
Edited by: Jordan Siegel and Kyra Sorkin