"It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge." - Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein’s brilliant quote is profound. Helping my students tap into their creative side is only one facet of my desired goal. Awakening them to the joy that unfolds in the creative and learning process is my higher aim.
A person doesn't just start playing the piano without any exploration of the keyboard. However, after gaining sufficient knowledge and spending time practicing, they can freely move about the keys and write their own music. Oh the joy of composing!
The same holds true with painting. As you learn the elements and principles of design and the techniques of applying paint, you can relax and experience the pure unadulterated joy of your creative expression through painting. My tag line is 'joy on canvas.' Hopefully, the joy of painting that I experience shines through in my artwork. And, hopefully, your creative journey is allowing you to experience the same.
As you gain knowledge and practice what you learn, you'll experience significant growth. You'll learn through trial and error. I remember when I began to study watercolor painting, I would go home after class and practice what I'd learned right away. I experienced my share of frustration in those early days, but I also remember the small victories that encouraged me to keep going. There's a special joy that comes from attaining knowledge. After all, someone very wise once said, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free."
Combining creative expression with knowledge and putting them to use within the context of your own individuality, is indeed the recipe to awaken your own joy of painting.
Along with my own painting, and working on commissions for clients, I also teach three drawing and painting classes a week. Sign up for an art class with me and see if sparks your own creative expression!