They listen to my ideas and instructions, then take it to the next level, dreaming up new ways to use what they've learned.
In my one-day workshop yesterday at McMurray Art League, we played musical chairs. The students moved from one table to the next, with only one minute at each station to draw a designated art supply. When it came time to paint their drawings, I gave them only two minutes per sketch.
It was amazing what they accomplished in such a short time, proving my point, that you don't need huge chunks of time to sketch. A minute or two here and there can result in a great page.
I shared some ideas for page layouts to use when sketching summer flowers...
and they took it from there! Here's a pretty pink composite page...
Even with all my talking, we had plenty of time during the six-hour class for everyone to finish three sketchbook pages.
Next week, we have a day trip planned to Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh to sketch the summer flower show. I think they're ready!
My eight-week Sketchbook Journaling 101 class here at Summerhill is in its fifth week now, and the student artists have come a long way since week one.
They're making a habit of sketching, looking for things that might catch their eye during the day, to record on the pages of their sketchbooks.
I love seeing what they bring to class each week...
but one of the best parts of the class is the support they give to each other...
I always urge my students to encourage themselves about their own work as much as they encourage each other in class. I hope they take that to heart, because they each have an artistic voice and view of the world that is unique to them. I love helping them discover it.
What fun, Leslie! If I ever see your 101 class offered again, I may consider making the four-hour drive each week to attend. I'm floundering with watercolors in my sketchbook. The online class I'm taking now is short on technique, and I can't find a local in-person class. Looks like your group is having a great time. Thank you for sharing their inspiring work!
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DeleteHi Susan,
DeleteThe multi-week format I'm doing now is good because the students have a chance to practice the techniques they learn each week, but maybe I need to offer a two-day workshop here at my place for people who live out of the area. There are plenty of places to stay nearby, and we could accomplish a lot in two days. Is that something you would be interested in?
Their work is fantastic!!! Maybe someday I'll get to take a workshop with you. Hmm...you could do one in Maine....Love the fast sketch idea. Some of my best happen in less than a minute. It's so great to be in a workshop where you are surrounded by the varied folks & ideas & art!
ReplyDeleteRita,
DeleteI'll be in Rockland in June. Want to meet for lunch and discuss? Sure would be fun to get together and sketch a bit. Drop me an email.
Leslie,
ReplyDeleteI had so much fun yesterday at Phipps. I'm happy with the way my pictures came out, and it is always a pleasure to talk to you. You gave me some good tips and I'll definitely incorporate them in my work. Thanks for a great day!
Lydia
Your classes sound like a lot of fun, Leslie. Well done to all the students on the lovely work! :)
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