Today I had real treat - A return to teaching as requested by my mothers painting group.
These lovely ladies have painted together every Tuesday for a very long time. They are all talented artists in their own right, so I was delighted when they asked if I could come and show them some new techniques in a different medium to their usual watercolors for backgrounds and texture.
This was doubly special as it meant a return journey near Camden , the place where I grew up. It is a beautiful part of the world. I had to take a picture of the gates leading to Miriams house where the ladies were meeting.
I really enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with these wise and creative women who embraced new materials and mediums enthusiastically. I had forgotten how much of a two way street teaching is.
Miriams garden is just beautiful, full of nooks and crannys and interesting sculpture and surprises everywhere, as you can see just a little of my mother laden walking through.
It was interesting just how diverse the results were when they all received the same information and techniques. It made me think about Ursula's recent post "to copy or not to copy" - whilst a certain style and technique was taught the results were totally unique and different, and my mother actually said even working in a different medium - their work still reflected each of their individual styles and approaches. That same theme was touched on tonight in "Painting Australia", always an interesting discussion as you can see from the comments Ursula's post has generated. For me it's about ultimately remaining true to yourself, and never forgetting to enjoy the journey. I really enjoyed todays.
This is so true Megan. I teach decorated papers and journal making and it's amazing, even though you show people the same technique, their work always ends up looking different. We all see the same thing but it's the interpretation that makes the difference.
What a lovely inspiring setting to teach in too.
Ro
xo
Posted by: Ro Bruhn | April 18, 2007 at 04:03 PM
I can see why you stopped to take a photo of the gate, it's great! I am really glad that you enjoyed your day and know what a fabulous teacher you are, those ladies were lucky to have you. I am also happy for you that you got something out of this day as well, teaching is an amazing experience. Ux
Posted by: Ursula Clamer | April 18, 2007 at 04:12 PM
Hi Megan, great to hear you are teaching painting class. What lucky ladies.
Thanks for stopping by the blog too..and fyi, the new stamps will probably find their way to a retailer in OZ soon or they will be available on the website at some point.
art hugs
Marie
Posted by: Marie | April 19, 2007 at 01:55 AM
The garden is entrancing and I wish that I could see more of it. What a wonderful day you must have had ... I love the idea that our individual creativity shines through even if we are given the same information and techniques.
I have added your blog to my links.
Posted by: kate | April 19, 2007 at 09:26 AM
Hi Megan,
What a beautiful garden, I agree that the gate is magnificent-perfect for a painting. How wonderful that you were able to share your knowledge with others and that the experience was so rewarding.
love Coby
Posted by: Coby | April 20, 2007 at 08:29 PM
lovely to know you had a great day too.Your comments reminded me why the journey to camden is never tedious. Last nights art show at Mosman went welland the FRESH FALL was appreciated at least by my lovely friends.To share your pages lets me share a part of you that is precious and like a gift. luv m.
Posted by: Margie | April 21, 2007 at 04:43 PM
Wow Camden looks stunning - mmmm love the gates.
So nice of you to teach you mum's friends, glad you liked it and I bet they loved it even more.
Posted by: JUDY WILKENFELD | April 21, 2007 at 10:01 PM