Change is the end result of true learning.

" The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you."  B.B. King

The above watercolor is one of the recent classes I attended. My painting looks somewhat different than the original but that is what makes our work uniquely ours.

 I enjoy watching someone else's brush moving across the paper or canvas.  I can get lost in each brush stroke, even how they hold their brush is mesmerizing!  Learning new color combinations and techniques are valuable in our artistic journey.  

If I were to take this photo and paint from it, I would have approached it in an entirely different manner than the instructor.  We get caught up in our own ideas and ways of doing our paintings.   I learned so much from each of the instructors I studied under.  

At times we instinctively do something without realizing why we did it that way.  Not only is learning a reminder of things we have learned along the way, but it reinforces what we know!

This week is dedicated to drawing.  Something I do not do on a regular basis and is the foundation of our art.  Grabbing my stabilo pencil, charcoal, inks, gesso and Bristol paper can be somewhat intimidating.

I have enjoyed this month of learning and stretching myself as an artist.  Reinforcing what I do know and replacing bad habits with new ideas and techniques.

Learning through art enriches our creativity, confidence and focus.  

Until next time;

Ursula

xo

https://ivynewport.com/creative-teachers-explore/ursula-wollenberg

"When you do things from your soul, you feel a river in you, a joy"

 Don't loose a moment, just follow you heart.

Earlier this year, I wrote about my word;   "Reimagined"

So, I have dedicated this month for learning and growing as an artist.  I have thrown myself into various classes, some pushing the boundaries and others just for fun.  

All three of the classes have been in watercolor.  Two were online and one was in person.  I struggled with the concept in the in person class.  Looking around at others that seemed to jump right in and create a lovely painting without fear.  Just enjoying the process and not worrying about the outcome.  Even though I struggled a bit, I did learn and will apply these concepts to my future work.  

We get caught up in our way of doing things and sometimes change is difficult.  

I love this quote from philosopher, Henri Bergson.

"To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly."

As I embrace this new year, I want to challenge myself as an artist.  Continuing to learn and grow, learn and do what I love.  Creating rivers of joy and to follow my heart along the way.

Allowing myself to adapt and become more flexible.  Open myself up to new ideas, encourage others and to become a better version of myself.

I will continue to take classes from my mentors.  Mentorship enables you to tap into your strengths, encouragement and support for growth.

I have a few more classes coming up and look forward to more inspiration.

Unit next time;

Ursula

xo

p.s.  Check out a few of my classes :

https://ivynewport.com/creative-teachers-explore/ursula-wollenberg

https://www.mysticspringstudios.com/art-walk-alchemy-2022-ursula-wollenberg