Learning to be "artistic"

The most incredible masterpiece ever created, is the human brain. As I studied for my Masters in Counseling at George Fox University I was called to study many things about the human brain. How I wish today I could visually monitor the brain activity in a ceramicist when they are creating something new. But you don't need trippy modern medical science to show you what's going on. Simply look at their face, watch the expressions as they create. As soon as they are into the rhythm of painting they become absorbed. Watch for the tongue to slowly slip out the corner of their mouth. It's almost like it's a tail that helps them stay balanced. Art is a great tool for relaxation and to relieve stress. True that some people stress about doing a "good job" on their soon to be new masterpiece. A good teacher will remind them to take ownership of their piece, to let it be an extension of you. The danger comes when someone is simply letting down to complete a task, and the art becomes a chore instead of a choice. Encourage your students to be creative, encourage them to do the best they can, and encourage them to take the next piece to the next level whatever that may be!

Special Note: Competitions are great places to learn how to improve yourself and how others feel about your work. Make sure the competition is judged by trained judges who know how to minimize personal likes and dislikes (it's impossible to eliminate these) and are focused on workmanship and creativity. Both the CAG and the AFAA have current judging programs that offer certification. There are other past programs that have also produced quality judges. Just because someone has done ceramics for a few years or even a few decades, does not make them competent judges.