Tips For Learning Art As An Adult

02/8/2010 - Culture - 10 Views If you think you can't teach an "old dog" new tricks when it comes to learning how to draw or how to paint as an adult, think again. Many of the great masters did not start dabbling in art until they were well into adulthood! Even if you don't plan on making art your career, it just might become a passion and a wonderful hobby. Here are some tips for learning art as an adult.

Keep an Open Mind

Don't ever catch yourself saying, "I could never do sculpture," or "I could never use oil paints." How will you know if you have an affinity for a particular artistic medium unless you try? You might want to visit your local art museum and see what kinds of media really interest you: at least, it's a place to start. If you gravitate toward semi-abstract art instead of more realistic works that could be a clue for the kinds of art you will most enjoy creating yourself.

Buy some low-cost art sets online and start playing around with oils, water colors, or acrylics if you think you might like to learn how to paint. Go to the park with a sketch pad and pencils and see what you can do: or use pen and ink to sketch a granddaughter. The point is: don't discount anything out of hand, and try out lots of different kinds of art. Buy some how-to art books and start playing around with various techniques: this is a really great way to determine what you most enjoy without breaking the bank with private lessons.

Take Lessons

There are actually quite a few really good art tutorials available on line that can teach you a lot of the basics concerning materials and techniques. You might want to try a water colors tutorial first, then move on to something else just to see what you like. If you prefer a more one-on-one approach, visit your local arts supplies store and see what classes they offer for beginners. Beginning classes are always low-key and no-pressure, and are a wonderful place to make new friends too. Most art instructors teach beginners in group settings, so it's cost-effective too.

Take Some Risks

If oil painting classes just aren't "doing it" for you, keep searching. You may find that you love to do sculpture or pottery better: maybe jewelry-making will be your passion. It's hard to discover if you're not willing to take risks. And be easy on yourself too. Not all of us are cut out to be Rembrandt or Picasso: art is meant to be enjoyed and savored. Regardless of your ability levels, if you are having fun and enjoying the process of creating, that's all that really matters.

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