Discerning Eye

I read a quote tonight by an artist about the art of drawing:

"Much of what we usually regard as the mysterious element

of "talent" is really more accurately described as a combination

of a practiced hand and a discerning eye" Diane Brown

I tend to agree with this statement, though not entirely. As an

art teacher for more than 20 years, I saw students of all

abilities or "talents". There were several of my students that

were just gifted naturally, by God I believe, with an ability to

draw. And then there were a lot that I taught to draw, as I

believe most people can be instructed. I always said that

drawing was a skill, to be learned and practiced just like a

musical instrument. And I could teach them to do that. But

I couldn't teach them to be creative, to have that "discerning

eye" that made them an artist.

I took this photograph while I was exhibiting at an art show

in Denton, Texas. I was on a break from my booth, and

happened to have my camera as I crossed the bridge over

this little creek. This little fellow was having the best time

in the water. I used to do the same thing in a creek long ago

near my home. I would like to draw this, and I have posted

the cropped version to show how I would like the drawing to

be. Will start soon.

for information on drawing/painting classes:

www.peapatchgallery.com click on workshops