Sep 21, 20233 min read

you will never see the world the same again: if you learn to draw

Embracing the Art of Drawing: Returning to the Basics

Introduction:

Since 2009, I've had the privilege of guiding adults through the world of drawing and painting. It's been enlightening to discover just how intimidating drawing can be for many grown-ups. Yet, trust me, it's a profoundly gratifying pursuit once you've unlocked its secrets.

A Nurturing Beginning:

There are 5 people in your life who are pivotal, most of mine are art teachers. I was extremely fortunate to have wonderful people in my art life. My first was Mr Stansby at Mowden Junior School in Darlington. I wasn't a child art prodigy, just a tad more inclined than my peers. Thanks to the dedication of Mr. Stansby, my grade 5 and 6 teacher, afternoons were dedicated to art. Those sessions crafting monumental drawings, collages, and embroideries ignited a lifelong passion for me.

Confronting the Fear:

It's perfectly normal for potential students to hesitate before delving into lessons. Often, they carry the weight of unkind remarks or cranky art teachers from their past. That's precisely why I advocate starting with my "Back to Basics" drawing course. It's a methodical journey, breaking down the learning process into manageable segments.

Drawing: A Learnable Skill:

When new students walk through my door, they often utter those three familiar words: "I can't draw." To which I respond, "You can, you simply haven't been shown how." Their scepticism is warranted, but more often than not, they surprise themselves. I do genuinely believe the majority of people can draw.

Drawing: An Ever-Evolving Exploration:

Let's debunk a common misconception. A masterful drawing doesn't demand photorealism or strict representation. Instead, it invites exploration, and inquiry, and leaves room for interpretation. My tutor at Six Form College, Mr. Hicks once said, an excellent drawing is never truly finished. It's a journey, not a destination.

Seeing with Artistic Eyes:

You've likely heard art instructors proclaim, "You need to see before you can draw." But what does that entail? It's about acquiring the vision of an artist, and I'm committed to demystifying that process. When I started teaching art I assumed you had to be ethereal and vague. I just couldn't do it. I want my students to benefit from everything I have learned along the way. I teach you how to see, as an artist and the world will never look the same again.

Cherishing the Process:

In a world fixated on end results, I encourage my students to find joy in the process. Exercises like blind contour drawings, with their quirky, unselfconscious nature, embody the essence of truly seeing.

Learning Art, Like Learning Music:

Learning to draw mirrors the journey of mastering a musical instrument. It starts with the fundamentals and gradually builds complexity. It's a journey, not a sprint. After all, you wouldn't expect to play a concerto on day one, would you?

Building a Strong Foundation:

My drawing course for adults is meticulously designed to introduce crucial elements and principles of art gradually. Each lesson builds upon the last, fostering confidence and skill. From dissecting shapes to understanding composition, I aim to provide a comprehensive foundation for budding artists.

Conclusion:

Drawing isn't a mystical talent reserved for a select few. It's a skill that can be nurtured, honed, and cherished by anyone willing to embark on the journey. Through my "Back to Basics" course, I aspire to demystify the process, unveiling the profound joy that lies within the act of drawing. It's a journey that promises transformation, one sketch at a time.