
Student Memorial: Gordon
Gordon was such an enthusiastic student of art and contributor to his communities. He started drawing when his cancer treatments caused him to stop being able to play the trumpet, something he had always done. Needing a new hobby, he found me and jumped in to learn to draw. He was always bringing extra supplies to share, sending me ideas about galleries/artists/classes and contributing photographs he'd taken on his travels throughout the US.

Student in the Spotlight: Phoebe
Phoebe, our Student in the Spotlight, began her artistic journey at age 10 with dreams of becoming a biologist. Now studying Evolutionary Biology at the University of Texas, Phoebe is focused on researching lemurs in Madagascar. Her dedication to wildlife conservation includes her Girl Scout Gold Award project at the Austin Zoo, where she designed a scavenger hunt and helped label native plants. Phoebe’s growth as both an artist and environmental advocate continues to inspire!

December 2020 Online Drawing Course Membership Giveaway - The LZM Drawing Method
Enter to win 6 months of my comprehensive online drawing course, featuring video lessons, handouts, a photo library, and more—everything you need to master drawing beyond a college-level class!
Giveaway Dates:
Start: Thursday, December 17, 2020
End: Wednesday, December 23, 2020, at 5 PM CST
To enter, simply fill out the form below. Plus, get access to free drawing tips and updates via email!
Don’t miss out—enter now for your chance to enhance your drawing skills!
For more details, visit LZMstudio.com.

Art Supplies for the Budding Artist
Still looking for holiday presents for your favorite budding artist? These are the essential drawing art supplies I can't live without! Many of these are on my newly updated Recommended Supplies list, however, some of these are not because they go beyond my basic supplies for drawing lessons. Nothing beats the gift of art supplies, because it is the gift of an experience- something that will reward the receiver for much longer than just the holiday season, and will give your favorite person a learned skill that lasts. Here are my most coveted tools, with links to easy online suppliers.

Drawing Games for Kids: Rewards for Hard Work
Discover how structured drawing classes can embrace kids' natural creativity while teaching rigorous skills! Incorporating fun, imaginative activities like the Creative Mark Game helps children stay engaged, build motor skills, and explore their inner worlds. Learn how to structure 55-minute drawing sessions with breaks that balance focus and play, offering a reward system that motivates kids to learn while having fun.
Perfect for children ages 5–10, these techniques make learning to draw exciting and adaptable—even during moments of silliness. Whether in a class, waiting in line, or at home, simple games like transforming marks into imaginative creations are great for keeping kids entertained and creative. Check out this post for inspiration and examples from young artists aged 7, 9, and 10!

Does Your Kid Dream of Architecture? Drawing Lessons Are a Good Place to Begin!
For kids interested in architecture, perspective drawing is a great starting point. Recently, I introduced my student Carter, age 11, to the world of architecture through perspective lessons. His passion for modern architecture grew as he took on complex house designs.
To deepen his learning, I arranged a meeting with local architect Charles Di Piazza, AIA, at a construction site in Austin. Carter learned about site analysis, design sketches, and the architectural process. This hands-on experience connected his drawing lessons to real-world architecture, inspiring him even more.
This rewarding opportunity highlights the power of combining art and architecture to inspire the next generation of architects.

Christmas in July?
Looking for a unique Christmas gift idea? Last December, a client asked me to draw a picture of their daughter's house as a special holiday gift. I completed the artwork in just two weeks, balancing it with my regular lessons. Below, you'll find 4 stages of my drawing process. If you're thinking ahead for this holiday season, now is the perfect time to get started! Don’t wait until December—planning early ensures I can create something magical for someone you love. Contact me today to get your personalized gift underway!

In Memory of Sue
In the studio, trust and vulnerability help students grow and connect. Sue, a former student who recently lost her battle with cancer, embodied quiet strength and grace. Her delicate nature drawings showcased her refined touch and elegant artistry.
I am honored to have shared her journey and witnessed her courage. Rest in peace, Sue—you will be missed.