the beginner's class

Last Sunday, I had an amazing time teaching a Community Art Class, sponsored by the Golden Library. 

A group of beginners tried out acrylic painting for the first time and it was glorious!  I might sound over-exuberant, but here's the thing: it's an incredible gift to introduce beginners to the discovery that they can, indeed, paint!

When I was a child, people would often tell me, "Oh, you're so talented!" and this was kind of them since it was them expressing that they

appreciated the fact that I could draw or paint, even from a young age.  But this idea that is prevalent in our culture (about born talent), can do some damage. 

There's a "have or have not" mentality that doesn't take into account the fact that everyone can develop a skill like painting, and "birth talent" isn't a requirement.

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The truth is, some children develop more of an interest in art at a younger age and so they begin practicing and trying out their creativity with a pencil or with paint.  Because practicing enables them to have a bit more ease with creating art, they get an honorary distinction of having a something above and beyond: "talent".  And sometimes, there are other kids, who watch these "talented ones" and wish they had this talent, too,

never knowing, that at any time, they also can jump into these same waters and begin to develop their own creativity.  Their own "so-called" talent. 

I'm so proud of my beginning painters, in this class, and in private instruction, who decide to develop a new skill like painting.  How defiant and brave they are, in their willingness to try.  It has nothing to do with unearned "talent" and

everything to do with courage and a revolutionary determination to risk as they set out exploring their own creativity. 

We should never critique beginners harshly, even if the beginner is one's own self.  Instead, we remember the risk involved and the courage that it takes to try something new.  And we respect the art, for that sake alone, if necessary.

But this new group of beginners all did amazing.  Just look at their beautiful winter chickadees! It's never too late to begin to develop your art skill.  Jump into those waters, and give it a try!  Next class is February 9th.  Call the library to learn more.