I found this very interesting article on how drawing is one of the best ways to learn, regardless of whether or not you consider yourself to be an artist. In a previous post I touched on some misconceptions about drawing and I think this article piggybacks on some of those same points. Historian D.B. Dowd wrote a book titled Stick Figures: Drawing as a Human Practice, where he argues that putting a pencil to paper shouldn’t be about making art at all. What he's saying is that drawing shouldn’t be about performance, but about process. It’s not just for the artists. Think of it as a way of observing the world and learning, something that can be done anytime, like taking notes, jotting down a thought, or sending a text.

What do you think? Do you use drawing as a form of learning in addition to drawing as a form of art-making? I definitely do! I remember drawing doodles on my notes when I was in school as a way to remember what my teacher was talking about. I also draw when I plan out ideas for other artworks, such as paintings. 

Here is an article on 10 drawing myths that block your progress that I found interesting. Drawing can seem like an intimating thing for so many people. I can't tell you how many times I have heard people say to me: "I can't even draw a stick figure!"  There are many people who think that drawing is impossible if they weren't born with the ability or it doesn't come to them naturally. On top of that, we often see the polished work of artists rather than the process they went through to learn all of the skills and techniques on display in their finished art. As an art educator, I firmly believe drawing (and any other medium) can be learned, at any age. It just takes a commitment to practice. Plus, we wouldn't have classes on drawing if it couldn't be learned! On Monday, June 29, 2020 at 9am I will be teaching a live class on getting starting with drawing and covering some of the basics. We'll talk about some of the things mentioned in this article as well as some tips and exercises to get more comfortable with drawing. Join us even if you have been drawing for a while! This class will provide useful information for all levels of artists. You can sign up for this class under "Upcoming Events." If you can't make it to the live event, you can view the class on your own time via "On-Demand Classes" after the event. 

Do you enjoy drawing? Which of the 10 drawing myths resonated the most with you? What would you like to learn about drawing? Let me know in the comments!

Most of our intermediate to advanced artists in this club probably know what basic acrylic painting supplies are needed, but for anyone that may be a beginner or even new to acrylic painting, I found this article that highlights both essential supplies and some of the extra supplies that make the acrylic painting experience even better. In the future I will be teaching a live class on getting starting with acrylic painting and covering many of these supplies and materials in more detail. I will be including a list of supplies that I typically buy for my drawing and painting students as well as some of my favorite brands that are quality, but don't break the bank. If you are already an acrylic painter, what are some of your favorite or "must have" supplies? Do you see anything you'd add to this list?

I recently came across this article on npr.org that discusses some of the many benefits of creating and making art. Even though I knew most of these benefits already, I really enjoyed reading this article as a refresher.  Plus, there is a fun little printable DIY Zine: "How To Start An Art Habit" included. One reason I make art is because it lowers my stress and reduces my anxiety. In a very busy and fast paced world it allows me to slow down and focus deeply on something. What are some of the reasons you like to make art? Do you resonate with any of the benefits listed in the article? Let me know it the comments!