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.
The Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick Is Now Being Manufactured as the Factis BM2 Eraser
Celebrate the return of the Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick, now known as the Factis BM2 Eraser by General's Pencil Co. After being discontinued, artists searched for a worthy replacement, but the Factis BM2 delivers the same quality and durability at an affordable price. Available at DickBlick.com, it’s perfect for precise erasing without damaging your paper. Keep your drawings clean and your erasing effortless with this beloved tool!
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.
Graphite Pencil Review: For the Love of the Graphite Pencil
As an artist and educator, I’ve tested a variety of graphite pencils to find the best options for drawing. From budget-friendly brands like Marco Raffine to premium choices like Tombow Mono, I’ve discovered that higher-quality pencils offer smoother textures, better durability, and less breakage. While cheaper pencils may seem like a bargain, they often cause frustration with frequent breakage and rough textures. In this review, I compare popular brands, helping you choose the right pencil for your art—whether you're a beginner or experienced artist.
Recommended Gift Art Supplies for the Budding Artist
Here are some great gift ideas for the art lover in your life - just as the holiday season approaches. I posted something similar a couple of seasons ago, but this updated list includes new finds and changes due to suppliers and technology. These are my recommended gift art supplies for the budding artist!
Art supplies make a perfect gift--because it is the gift of an experience--something that will reward the receiver for much longer than just the holiday season. They are the tools that give the art lover in your life a learned skill that lasts. On that note, here are some of my most coveted supplies with links to easy online suppliers at a good price. Happy shopping!
"Tweaking Is Essential to the Drawing Process" (If Steve Jobs Did It, Why Won't You?)
A form of "analysis paralysis" I see my adult drawing students commonly put themselves through is the idea that they have to get something drawn correctly the first time they draw it. This drive for perfection straight out of the gate is horrible for our self-esteem, especially when we're faced with a task we have not yet mastered! I often remind students that they don't know how to imagine the perfect drawing in their head because they have to use their fine motor skills to actually execute the drawing. Fine motor skills are a factor within their control, but more often than not those skills are underdeveloped in adulthood. Because of that, the moving of the hand is a game changer- you can't just "picture it" and be done! And if you're like most of us, you need to be prepared for making adjustments.
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!
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!