“Intuition in art is actually the result of prolonged tuition.”
~Ben Shahn, painter
I remember as a young artist and student taking meticulous notes in my sketchbook every time I mixed a paint color I liked: I documented the recipe and proportions for future reference. I tell my students that story today when they ask for my assistance in mixing paint. Now, mixing paint is intuitive and even more enjoyable – not to mention much faster! But it really is a result of prolonged tuition: years of study and practice.
I’ve spent most of my life in school…mostly as a student (23 years to be exact!) and most recently as a teacher for 10+ years. Still, I long to try new techniques and materials – from glass blowing and fusing, bead-making, metals, book-arts, knitting, dancing – these are all classes I’ve taken after graduating with my Masters degree. And I am planning to take more! Already, I am looking at my days off with the upcoming holidays in December and planning what new class to take. I love being in the role of the student again, putting myself in the position my students are in everyday. It helps me to empathize with them, and it’s also a real treat for me!
What is the next new skill you want to learn?
Mary
~Ben Shahn, painter
I remember as a young artist and student taking meticulous notes in my sketchbook every time I mixed a paint color I liked: I documented the recipe and proportions for future reference. I tell my students that story today when they ask for my assistance in mixing paint. Now, mixing paint is intuitive and even more enjoyable – not to mention much faster! But it really is a result of prolonged tuition: years of study and practice.
I’ve spent most of my life in school…mostly as a student (23 years to be exact!) and most recently as a teacher for 10+ years. Still, I long to try new techniques and materials – from glass blowing and fusing, bead-making, metals, book-arts, knitting, dancing – these are all classes I’ve taken after graduating with my Masters degree. And I am planning to take more! Already, I am looking at my days off with the upcoming holidays in December and planning what new class to take. I love being in the role of the student again, putting myself in the position my students are in everyday. It helps me to empathize with them, and it’s also a real treat for me!
What is the next new skill you want to learn?
Mary
