Building a new foundation as an artist

Hello again from Philadelphia where there seems to be rebuilding going on everywhere. The building behind our apartment building was demolished a few weeks ago. Now the focus is on the ground and excavating, leveling and preparing the soil for the new building.

As a student and artist, I am learning new fundamentals and preparing the ‘soil’ (following a wrecking ball ceremony when I realized I needed to learn many new drawing skills, processes and techniques) so I can foster the right skills and let go of ‘not so hotso’ practices I have picked up along the way and prior to coming to Studio Incamminati.

The fundamentals I am learning require seeing the subject in front of me and paying attention. More than one teacher has said that, as artists, we’re searching for the right lines for the pencil or charcoal. We’re also fostering patience to ensure that we look for the most accurate representation. After all, what’s the point of drawing realistically if the drawing isn’t accurate?

I find that I have experienced a wide range of emotions as I have demolished any prior knowledge of how to draw and see. I am also learning the nuances of drawing with charcoal which, frankly, I have been using as a blunt object. Some artists are naturally gifted and then there are the workhorses who show up everyday and sketch and strive to improve skills. I’m obviously in the latter category.

The more I learn that I need to learn the more I want to learn! Isn’t that crazy? The good news is the sea of knowledge required to navigate this school is vast so I know I have plenty of stuff to feed the ‘want to learn’ part of my psyche.

In the midst of all this learning is an incredible culture at the school which fosters respect and inclusiveness to all who are willing to stand at their easel and do the work. There is also a tremendous amount of discipline, persistence and comradery that comes with the people who attend this challenging program.

I share these meandering thoughts with you for two reasons: first, the next time you hear someone use the words “flaky,” or “undisciplined,” or “just an artist,” invite a metaphorical bulldozer to level those words and rebuild them with “persistence,” “fortitude,” and “passion,” and you will have a glimpse of the artists/students/faculty and staff at Studio Incamminati. Secondly, Studio Incamminati is having an Open House this weekend. If you’re interested in taking a tour or visiting the studios, please do and register here! I promise you will be inspired by the artwork and the people.