Archive for June, 2009
Learning to Draw is Like Learning a Whole New Language
Author: Chris Cruikshank
When it comes to parent’s questions about the progress of their students, there are no one-size-fits-all answers. At KidzArt, we are often asked, “When will my child improve her drawing skills and begin drawing at home like she does in a KidzArt class? “ or “Why does my child only like to draw eyes and animals?”
Some children are not willing to step out of their comfort zone and try new things–and that goes for drawing too. At home, they will draw what they have always drawn. This is OK! The parent shouldn’t worry or express their concern to their child.
Just know that like anything else, drawing skills improve with practice. It is different with every child. Some will continue to draw the way they always have when they are outside of a KidzArt class. Then suddenly, they understand how to SEE, and their drawing skills take a big leap forward. You will see this happen. Sometimes this ”ah-ha!” moment occurs after one class, sometimes it takes months or years, depending on age level and willingness to try something new.
Drawing is a result of learning how to see. When you learn how to look at things with an “artist’s eye”, you learn how to draw. This means that you learn how to interpret line, shape, volume, shadow, tone, color and spacial relationships. It is like learning a new language. Some learn faster than others. If a student is enjoying the class and having fun, they WILL learn. If there is pressure from the parent to have a “perfect drawing”, then learning is more difficult in my opinion. Creativity takes many forms. We cannot dictate how it must be for each person. We are all unique.
As for those who only like to draw certain images like eyes and animals, parents should be happy that their child is inspired! Let them draw what inspires them! Our aim is not to prohibit, but to inspire. Not to dictate, but to assist. Not to criticize, but to catalyze.
Drawing is the same process regardless of the subject. Practicing a landscape is just as valuable as practicing an animal. Drawing a mountain can improve perception just as much as drawing an eye. Each will help the student be a better artist–more skilled.
For example, if you find your student or child only wants to draw eyes, suggest she include an eye or an animal in every picture that she draws in KidzArt. This could be a challenge. How to include an animal or an eye in everything she does. Maybe even HIDE an eye somewhere in the landscape. We want to take what children love and use these things to help them be creative thinkers. Learning how to draw is just part of the process.
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