It's Simply Drawing

Studying something intently by trying to draw it completely changes our point of view, not only of the object but, subtly, of ourselves as well. Looking deeply at one petal of a flower head we realise that it is uniquely different to every other petal we have ever seen. Not only on that flower, but on every flower in the known universe. Think of that. A miniscule variation in shape, colour, light or reflection renders each petal matchless and irreplaceable. We could say the same about everything we see, including each other. Even mass produced objects will be somehow distinctive from one another. 

I do believe that accurate drawing is a skill that can be learnt – and taught - relatively easily, and also that it has many benefits beyond immediate pleasure. With practice and discipline it leads not only to the satisfaction of capturing the world around us, but also to a whole new way of relating to it. Spending time creatively is always an investment in ourselves, and a gift to those we interact with. 

Knowing that, how can we see the world in the same way ever again?

How can we look the other way and ignore wanton destruction?

The practice of simply drawing things around us can lead to revelations such as this. It’s not even necessary to make ‘good’ drawings. They will improve over time, and that in itself is satisfying, but the effort and concentration accurate drawing takes can transport us to deeper realms if we let it. 

Simply drawing can be a gateway to so many creative paths. Gift yourself with a small blank book that will fit in your pocket or handbag, and draw something – anything – in it for five minutes every day. Be inspired by the world around you and you will begin to see it as you never have before.

Classes Update; Tuesday 26th and Friday 29th of May will be the last classes for a couple of weeks. I am going to the UK, so we’ll resume on the 23rd and 19th respectively.

Just to remind you, on Tuesdays I have a class at Le Meridien in Balluta Bay. I give exercises and projects to help everyone overcome any problems they might have with drawing or watercolour. It can be less daunting to work like this for a while before tackling outdoor subjects, as you can build up a ‘toolkit’ of approaches and methods first. We meet in the KuDeTa lounge near reception and the class will continue throughout the summer. I am looking forward to the A/C as well as the fun the classes always are !!
10am – 12.30pm, 20 euro per session, 23 with watercolour materials provided.

On Fridays we meet in the fabulous grounds of Villa Bologna in Attard. Every week I give the group a challenge or challenge or a way of working that I think is helpful and inspirational, then I help everyone to achieve it in their own way. The group includes all abilities, from those who have painted for years to absolute beginners. Working in a group like this means that we can see how others tackle the same subject and how we can try different methods. We work mainly in watercolours, which are just so easy to carry around - and I find them fun and forgiving to work with too. I encourage 'cheating' ie - any method which gives you a good result is fine! People can bring any medium they prefer though.
10am – 12.30pm, 20 euro per session, 23 with watercolour materials provided.

When the weather gets really hot we might move the sessions to evenings.

As well as the flower shop and the pottery shop there's a lovely 'secret' cafe in the grounds and the Veg Box, which sells organic vegetables on Tuesday and Friday morrnings.



For more info contact me HERE