There is this big misconception when it comes to understanding art and who can create art. For many, the concept that art is only for the ‘talented’ is what they believe to be true. 

From my years of teaching, I’ve often wondered where does this come from? Why do we believe that art is only for those born with talent? Why don’t we believe that art is a skill that anyone can learn, just like maths, music and baking?

From what I have seen, the younger the students come to me the less they think about this idea. They come to draw and paint and have fun and are definitely not concerned that they may not have the talent to create art. 

As students get older and stay with me throughout the years, learning more about art and learning more skills, they become unbelievable artists. They are recognized in school as being ‘artistic’ and ‘talented’ and know how to create artwork really well. 

The age that I rarely get students at, is from age 12+. And I know why. 

By that time, they have decided based on their own understanding, that they may not be a good enough artist or talented enough to pursue art lessons. If you remember from your school years, there was always that classmate that could draw unbelievably well or paint well and everyone said what an artist they are. This meant that the other students in the class, probably felt like they had no chance at being an artist and didn’t dare dream that they could be one. 

Coupled with the fact, that teaching the foundational skills of drawing and painting, especially at that age is not very popular, means that the students are just ‘expected’ to know how to draw and paint. If they don’t, well that means art isn’t for them. 

But this is all so wrong. From my years of teaching, I have seen how you can teach any age, kids, teens and adults how to draw and paint by teaching them the correct methods to do so. There is no reason why a student can’t pick up the skills needed, just as baking, music, swimming etc. Just because it’s hard to teach drawing and painting skills correctly, doesn’t mean we should be holding back this gift of art from so many. 

And that’s why, I knew when I taught that I was going to teach every student the same foundational art skills according to their level. Every student can believe they can draw and paint and be an artist and just because society is misinformed, it does not mean I should hold back my students. 

Yes, some students did have some natural talent when it comes to drawing and painting, but even then they benefit from learning the rules, methods and skills needed to create proper artwork. 

So how do you know if you should push yourself or your child to discover art through formal art lessons? If you have this desire to paint or your child loves to draw or color, then try some lessons out and don’t be afraid to learn a skill that everyone can master.