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.
Special Guest Models!
Last week, Rio, my 6-year-old student, practiced drawing from observation with her dogs, Ellie and Pica. While photographs can be useful, drawing from real-life models helps artists capture details and understand volume and lighting better. Rio's ability to replicate a Chihuahua drawing with minimal guidance shows how powerful drawing from 3D models can be, even for young beginners. This method accelerates skill development and improves accuracy, making it a key technique for any artist!
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.
It’s All About the Mind, Folks!
This summer, I had the privilege of working with a small group of 5-year-old girls in private lessons. In our first session, I asked them to refrain from using erasers—a challenging request for many at this age, as they are still developing fine motor skills. Rather than focusing on "perfect" drawings, I encouraged them to embrace their mistakes, seeing them as opportunities to grow and improve. By the end of the lesson, the girls had learned to adapt and thrive, gaining confidence in their creativity.
In week two, Phoebe W. presented me with a heartfelt drawing, a testament to the clarity of spirit that even young children can possess. It reminded me that, "It's all about the mind"—a powerful lesson for us all
Up to Some Good on the Interweb!
Stay updated with exciting accomplishments from my students, new creative endeavors in the studio, and insights from my journey as a small business owner. Whether it's pastel drawings or lessons, I’m sharing my passion for art and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Be sure to check back often for inspiration and updates from LZM Studio!