Art Education

I graduated from the University of Maryland College Park close to twenty years ago with my Bachelor's in art. That's quite crazy to say, but true. 

Some of the best times in my life were in college. I gained life long friends, had the opportunity to be part of a division 1 track & field team, and even came into who I was as an individual. 

While I appreciate UMCP for so many wonderful experiences, I don't believe I was academically prepared to face the real world of art. The business of how the art world works. Truthfully, I am not sure many schools outside of traditional art schools do a very good job of equipping their students with what is needed to survive in the art world. 

At UMCP I had several teacher's who were really instrumental in helping me to find my artistic voice. I 

Back then, and sometimes like now (although I'm working to change this) I was a perfectionist. I wanted great grades and to be the best at what I was doing. The preliminary classes that I needed to take for my major were difficult and meant to serve as weed out courses. You know the courses that would separate those that could make the cut and those that couldn't. Well, I suppose I was one of the ones that couldn't, and it ate at me badly on the inside. 

I was studying harder than I had ever studied, had tutors and still wasn't getting the grades I thought I deserved. The information just wasn't sticking. The truth is, I was having trouble concentrating. It wasn't until years later that I understood my attention span to be about the size of a flea, and in science, that just doesn't cut the mustard. 

Again, I am unsure of what would make me want to resort to art as a major. I had taken a few classes in high school, which I loved. I took everything from drawing to jewelry making to sculpting. Each class was freeing to me. I was able to use my hands, be creative and socialize all at the same time. Time spent in class seemed to fly by and in the end, there was always something for me to take home that could be displayed. It was rewarding and sometimes useful. 

The transition from Zoology to art was fairly simple outside of having to stay a few extra semesters. Art classes were laid back and long...typically three-hour time blocks. The length was great because when creative juices started to flow three hours felt like twenty minutes. It was good for my attention span and I was all around a happier individual. My stress level surrounding my academic load was low and my grade point average was high. 

It was meant to be...art and me. It hasn't always been an easy and smooth ride for us, but a ride I don't mind taking to this day!!!

Corner of Gratitude:

Being able to have options

Pearls of Wisdom:
"If you want to achieve something, you're going to run into roadblocks, but you have to learn how to pivot and explore your options."

~ Hannah Bronfman

Your Thoughts:
What options have you chosen for the better?

Until next time...