When we play we discover. This is why a child's healthy development pivots upon a proper childhood full of playtime. Similarly, this is how a painter discovers their individuality. Most people who decide they want to paint think they have to take classes to learn, this is only partially correct. A few well-taught lessons can teach a lot about technique but nothing about spirit and identity. The art spirit is uncovered through playful abandon, alone, in your corner with your materials, doodling, losing yourself in experimental self indulgence. If we do not play we will never be a painter, it's that simple. How long should we play? The longer the better, at least an hour but best if all day, then reward yourself with a cup o' joe and a cigarette and ponder your day's discoveries. Apply those discoveries the following day. A year of that, or one hundred paintings later, and you're permitted to call yourself a painter.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Play.
When we play we discover. This is why a child's healthy development pivots upon a proper childhood full of playtime. Similarly, this is how a painter discovers their individuality. Most people who decide they want to paint think they have to take classes to learn, this is only partially correct. A few well-taught lessons can teach a lot about technique but nothing about spirit and identity. The art spirit is uncovered through playful abandon, alone, in your corner with your materials, doodling, losing yourself in experimental self indulgence. If we do not play we will never be a painter, it's that simple. How long should we play? The longer the better, at least an hour but best if all day, then reward yourself with a cup o' joe and a cigarette and ponder your day's discoveries. Apply those discoveries the following day. A year of that, or one hundred paintings later, and you're permitted to call yourself a painter.
