Dear Patty,
I have taught many drawing classes where the drawing is a means to quietness
and the expansion of consciousness.
I begin by asking the students to spend a few moments tuning in to how they
feel, usually by asking them to place one hand on their bellies and one on
their hearts. I ask them to breathe into how they feel, then to write down
in notebooks how they feel. Then we do a brainstorm on 'what is drawing?'
followed by a discussion. After we have heightened their awareness on what
making senstive drawing is all about, we begin, by drawing with any suitable
medium, marks in response to their breath; e.g delicate marks for as long as
it takes them to exhale ( exhaling is more calming than inhaling, which is
energising). This way students begin to see the potential of mark-making.
Then I usually ask them to draw their hand, using their non-dominant hand,
after some moments considering their hands, all they do and provide.
This is just a beginning.
If you'd like more you can email me direct by going to my website,
www.katewalters.co.uk
Best wishes,
Kate Walters.
also you could look at 'The Zen of Seeing'
----- Original Message -----
From: "Patty Hudak" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2009 3:12 PM
Subject: Drawing exercises
> Hello everyone,
>
> After working as a practicing artist for 20 years, I have yet to teach a
> class. I have just been asked to teach a drawing course, and would like
> to rise to the challenge.
>
> The course is a non-traditional class, focusing on the meditative aspects
> of drawing. In other word's, drawing without anxiety, more as a ritual to
> get at some deeper meaning. Some kind of means of creative flow.
>
> We are assuming no previous background in drawing or art, only a desire
> to enrich one's life.
>
> I am calling on you to help me, as the even the idea of teaching a class
> is enough to give ME anxiety.
>
> Are any of you willing to share some drawing exercises (beyond the ones
> we all know), that were particularly successful with your students?
> Something along the lines of the drawing ritual as a means of self
> discovery/relaxation?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Patty
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