Still life paintings are yesterday's Foodie Instagram
Still life paintings are yesterday's Foodie Instagram
On Being and Making Artwork
Our Bodies Hold the Space for Our Experiences
Of the most valuable things I’ve learned, is that artwork is physical and it manifests from the body. It simply does not exist without being informed by our bodies. And our bodies hold the space for all of our experiences. The way our body is shaped and perceived by others informs our worldview.
One of the main essences I am tasked with as a teacher is to hold space for each student – and this is a part of why I prefer private lessons to group classes- so that their body can be present in the lesson and perform the skill I am asking of them. This means addressing the whole person. Sometimes that means the skill acquisition is less important in that moment if a stressor/incident/trauma/concern is present. Often times when that is given space and due attention, it dissipates, and skill acquisition can resume. Sometimes it needs our attention for longer.
The Energy of Drawing
"Feeling overwhelmed by the hustle of the season? Discover the meditative power of drawing. Slow down, calm your mind, and reconnect with the present moment through simple, peaceful creativity. Learn how to overcome distractions and embrace stillness in your drawing practice, even during the busiest times of the year."
Student in the Spotlight: Avery
Meet Avery in the 'Student in the Spotlight' series! Discover how early art lessons built a foundation that led to award-winning success years later. Learn why ages 8-12 are key for artistic growth!
Why Take Drawing Lessons?
You Used to Love Drawing
Then something happened:
They told you you couldn't draw well.
You couldn't figure out how to make it look "right".
They told you, you didn't have "the eye" for it.
When you were young, they said, "Better stick to writing/basketball/math" or later, "Better stick to your day job".
Only the people who taught themselves were able to draw, and they were called, "talented".
"Creativity Scars" (as referred to by Brene Brown) are real and can be quite painful. So why take drawing lessons?
However, they are not the whole story, nor are they the end of the journey.
Overthinking Could Suffocate Your Drawing Practice
Nike said it best: Just Do It. Overthinking your drawing process slows progress and stifles creativity. Drawing is about connecting your hands, eyes, and brain—not overanalyzing every line.
Studies show that interrupting your brain’s overactive thought process can boost creativity and memory. Yet, adults often hesitate, fearing mistakes. But mistakes are how we grow!
The key? Let go of perfection. Play, fail, and draw without judgment. Grab a pencil and start—because the only thing holding you back is your own overthinking.
Ready to unlock your potential? Start today!
Your Kids Can Draw the Same Things as a College Art Student!
Did you know your 7-year-old can learn to draw just like a college art student? At LZM Studio, I bring my 5 years of teaching experience in community colleges and universities to private lessons for kids as young as 7. For over 8 years, I’ve proven that children are capable of mastering advanced drawing concepts like shading, perspective, and understanding how light interacts with shapes.
Take Ella, for example. At just 7 years old, she confidently tackled drawing a cone with realistic shading after seeing similar work by an adult student. Her excitement and determination proved that even at a young age, kids can grasp complex concepts when they're ready. While younger children often draw to express themselves and process their experiences, my lessons introduce advanced skills step by step, ensuring they learn at their own pace.
Your child’s creativity has no limits, and I’m here to nurture their artistic journey with professional guidance. Book a lesson today and watch their confidence soar!
In Honor of Veterans Day, LZM Studio and Small Victories Foundation Offer Drawing Lessons for Veterans
This Veterans Day, help spread the word about an incredible scholarship opportunity for veterans! Through my partnership with Small Victories, I’m offering drawing lessons to students recovering from traumatic brain injuries. Small Victories, founded by Derrick and Cindy Wright, is an inspiring organization that empowers individuals like Derrick, a veteran who sustained a brain injury while serving in Iraq, to find healing and purpose through art.
Art can be a powerful tool for recovery, fostering community, and achieving meaningful milestones. I’m honored to contribute to this mission and invite you to join us in supporting their work. Learn more about Derrick’s journey, explore the scholarship opportunities at LZM Studio, and consider donating to help veterans rediscover hope and purpose through creativity.
Share this with the veterans in your life and thank them for their service!