Now I remember why I hated art class when I was in school. I can't even remember that last class I took whether it was in Jr High or High School. I just remember how inept I felt and knew that art was not an option for me. Science was my thing. I liked it and I was good at it! But I was inspired to try my hand at watercolors by Jane La Fazio. I want to learn what she does - journal sketching. If you want to get inspired too, check out her blog.
Before I share my misery with class #2, I want to show what I did for homework from week #1. We were supposed to practice painting our marbles, spheres, balls - whatever you want to call them. Now I know those that teach art and have learned art the traditional way are tsking about my attitude. I am sorry and I apologize, but ... this may be the reason that so many of us are turned off to drawing and painting when we are kids, and I do understand about learning the fundamentals.
After doing the exercises, I sat on my quaint porch in the lushly
planted courtyard here in Key West and decided to try my hand at some
leaves.
I know they are not the greatest, but they are not bad for someone having taken one class.
But what's the most important thing, is that I actually had FUN.
It was enjoyable and relaxing and the time flew by.
Now to this week's class - a monochromatic view of an apple and a pear. Oy!
One thing that I found very interesting was a warm up that involved painting more marbles.
It's just like when we sit down to quilt and do a little practice sandwich first.
This was not fun for me.
I didn't understand this week's homework assignment. So I think I will try my hand at more leaves, or maybe a Key West house or two.
I took one of Jane's classes last year. It was a hoot and I learned a lot. So...when you take your next class take a deep breath and relax. Taking a painting class is like learning to ride a two wheeler. All of a sudden you'll take off and won't realize someone took the training wheels off. And tell the critic in your head to take a hike and before you know you'll find you're having fun!
ReplyDeleteCheryl, you are far more talented than I, but I can tell you the watercolor class I took a few years ago stressed me out no end. I had gone with a friend looking forward to having a different means of expressing my creativity when I wasn't in the mood to quilt. The night I spent 3 hours painting a cantaloupe did it; I never returned.
ReplyDeleteI like your leaves very much! They have there own style, just like you! While you may not be enjoying your class projects that much, I think you will still learn things that you will apply in your own way to your own projects later on. Hang in there! I can't wait to see what you come up with next!
ReplyDeleteI love every marble you painted! Your work is excellent. I can't believe you did all that with only one lesson.
ReplyDeleteWell, if it's any comfort to ya, I like your leaves (better than your pears)! Give the quaint & charming houses a go, you may find that you already instinctively know how to make them come alive, and you don't have to take any (many?) more lessons! Good luck!!
ReplyDeleteI think they're fantastic!
ReplyDelete