How Drawing Is Like Juggling; How Both Are as Difficult to See as a Gorilla on a Radiology Image
Drawing and juggling are both "global skills" that require the integration of smaller component skills. Like a juggler coordinating hands, eyes, and brain to keep objects in motion, an artist must balance elements like line direction, shading, and texture. However, beginners often struggle to focus on all components at once, leading to frustration.
A study of radiologists missing a "gorilla" in medical images illustrates how the brain filters out irrelevant details when focused on a task. Similarly, drawing requires practice and focus to master, much like juggling. With time, both skills improve, sharpening your cognitive abilities and perception.
Will Learning to Draw as a Child Change Your Brain as an Adult?
Many wonder if learning to draw as a child can change your brain as an adult. From my experience teaching kids, I can confidently say it does. Drawing helps children see the world differently, creating lasting cognitive changes.
A Northwestern University study shows that childhood music lessons result in long-term brain changes in adults. Could drawing have a similar impact? It’s a question worth exploring!
Want to Learn More?
Read the study on childhood learning and its effects on adult brain function. Click here to explore!
Drawing & Mindfulness
This weekend, I led a drawing meditation workshop at Dharmata Sangha of Austin, using classical line drawing to cultivate mindfulness. Through art, participants learned to quiet the mind and enhance their meditation practice. Over my 20 years as an artist, I’ve found that drawing helps calm the "loud mind syndrome," fostering presence and creativity. These workshops aren’t about creating art but about experiencing the peace of being fully engaged in the process. The true benefit is the mindfulness achieved through the act of drawing.