I recall not too many years ago, sitting at my desk and wishing I had time for an art lesson, a cooking course or even just time to read a book. I wanted "time". A long held desire to take a paint-brush in hand and just "see what I could do" lingered. He knew of my interest and as a Birthday present about 4 years ago, he gave me an Art course. The course consisted of a weekly 4 hour lesson, with 12 other students of various capabilities. I didn't realise that some of my fellow students had been painting most of their lives, had exhibited, sold paintings and even taught. Oh good!!!!!!!!!!!!
As you can imagine, arriving at the first lesson I was very nervous: my first thought, "I didn't belong"! If I could have run away with any dignity I would have. Watching the other students place their very accomplished "works" on easels and then carefully unpack their art materials was a little intimidating. Nervously waiting for the "art teacher" while she welcomed the other students (they all knew each other very well) I felt like the "new-kid" in the class room. I was overwhelmed with a sense of being in the "wrong" place.
"Tarryn" my teacher, had positioned a piece of white paper on my easel and then placed two red apples on a table in front of me. She then gave me a pencil and said, pointing to the two apples, "That is your subject for today" . I look at her blankly - "really?" I thought. I had no clue as to how I would reproduce that image. Tarryn threw her head back, laughed and said "oh don't worry, it's really easy! Once I show you the techniques, you'll be able to paint whatever you like", that remained to be seen.
3 hours later I had produced "two red apples" complete with a fore-ground, definition, depth, light and shade....they looked great! and I couldn't wait to get home to show him!
Since our "downsize" I have not joined a new art class and miss it terribly. It is on my list of things to do!
Since that first class, I have branched out to incorporate many subjects - my latest series are "Black and White's of women with physiological problems! - hopefully that doesn't say too much about me.
If you are inclined, try an art class - I love it!
Art classes are available at The Art Gallery of NSW.
...and remember...have a fabulous retirementLIFE....
