Golf Digest: First Look At The Masters
“Dear Diary” An eight page feature with illustrations and story for Golf Digest about my experience at The Masters. Since the tournament is always at the same venue, Golf Digest likes to send a new artist each year for a fresh perspective. It was a rare and exciting opportunity to illustrate and write on location. James’ feature was awarded 2nd place for the Best Feature by the Golf Writers Association of America.
Company Conde Nast
Client Golf Digest
Art Director: Ken Delago
Editor in Chief: Jerry Talde
URL: April Masters Preview Issue 2019
Dear Diary, A guide to hanging out at your first Masters. Written and illustrated by James Yang
If you live in New York City you will have a meeting. Editors and art directors will ask you to come to the office. It has a beautiful view of the city. You will see various writers ignoring the view and swinging clubs from their cubicles. It’s okay to be judgmental.
They will explain what you can and cannot do at Augusta National. If you cross a line, you will be banished. I was not concerned until they mentioned, “No phones on the course.” That thing is surgically attached to my hand. It’s OK to be freaked out.
Visited the clubhouse where only members, players, guests and media are allowed. Gary Player chats me up to make me feel welcome, and it’s routine to see the famous next to you.
The first day: You arrive and will be overwhelmed with getting credentials, figuring out the lay of the land, and soaking in everything that is Augusta National.
It’s OK after finding your desk to burst into tears from overstimulus, but first excuse yourself to the restroom and hide in a stall. Make sure to cry quietly,
Spent the morning at the practice range next to a security guard while watching Tiger. The guard occasionally shoos patrons away because it’s a restricted area.
My last day, ideas for art start forming, and I have purpose. I’m fitting in at the media center by writing, editing photos and sketching ideas.
Take one last look, then burst into tears. Before catching my flight, I say goodbye to all the writers and photographers, then go down to the course for one last look
