NATG XIII Day 1: A Ballroom of Emotions

It’s a night under the stars… As I trot into the enormous ballroom, I see many familiar and new faces from the audience, some of whom we’ve been together for years. There are glamorous mares dressed up in a gorgeous gala dress, and stallions wearing suits or tuxedos… But you? You caught my attention. You’re looking fabulous on this big night. You’re the star I’m staring at tonight, every night, forever… Because tonight, you look perfect.

And with Calpain marching onto the front stage in this ever-vivacious ballroom and hosting the opening ceremony of the 13th Newbie Artist Training Grounds in history, our NATG 2023 prom has officially begun. Colorful lights are ignited, directing in every which way and casting every corner of this dance hall. The exquisitely designed crystal ceiling and chandeliers ricochet white lights everywhere and disperse them into a spectrum of colors, radiating each of our millions of unique personalities. While there are certainly familiar faces to meet and chat with tonight, new artists were also invited, and we are more than excited to welcome you aboard and have fun with us in this electric month of drawing ponies. As things got settled, I had a fun chat with numerous artists sitting at the same table as mine, many of who underwent last year’s epic NATG roller coaster ride just like I did. From drawing on notebooks to digital art, and even to sculptures and many other creative things I can’t possibly imagine, you have been a vital part of my memories and I’m so grateful to be back for this gallant marathon tonight. So I left my seat without hesitations, not even a second of thought, and approached the grand stage at the front, ready to pluck up my courage and pick up the silvery microphone. The hall dimmed, and I was struck with a glaring white spotlight. Everypony was staring at me, waiting to hear something lyrical. I was nervous for a moment, but knowing that I have done similar things before, I was not even fearful of showing my artistic talents, be it music or drawing ponies. To make this night extra special and memorable for everyone, I came up with the perfect song choice for tonight, something that resonates with both you and me - “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. Whether you are new or not, whether you have your loyal friends on this journey or not, and perhaps whether you are on the voyage of a lifelong relationship, you are amazing. Seeing you tonight in this NATG ballroom has brought back so many cheerful memories or given us eternal desires to become new friends, and even if you cannot finish all prompts, you will still be proud of what you have gone through. Tonight, I am standing on this stage confidently with my first drawing for NATG XIII, but tomorrow that pony might be you. While there is still time, enjoy the moment, dance however you want, sing however you wish, and draw however you like. Together, we are perfect and forever will be.