Digital Kids: Computer-Aided Drawing is Good Drawing Practice
Encouraging kids to unplug is important, but guiding them toward meaningful tech use is just as valuable! Digital drawing, like Ananda's work with Corel programs, combines creativity with real-world skill-building. While traditional tools like colored pencils teach tactile skills and planning, digital mediums offer layers, "undo" options, and career-ready experiences.
Ananda's "Phoenix Fox" speed-drawing project, learned at The Contemporary Austin Art School, highlights how digital tools can expand artistic expression. If your kids are using computers, why not connect with them through creative activities like digital art?
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!
Can Your Kid Draw On Demand? Why, Yes!
It takes time for children to apply drawing lessons to their own creative work. Kids under 10 may integrate new skills more slowly due to brain development, while children over 10 typically progress faster.
Ellie, 11, is a great example. After 37 hours of lessons, she progressed from a basic drawing of a toy sheep to a detailed, shaded portrait. Her growth shows how consistent practice helps children develop key skills like patience, observation, and problem-solving.
Through focused lessons, kids can gain the confidence and ability to draw independently and master new techniques over time.
Sophisticated Graphite Pencil Portraits, for Kids and Adults!
Many believe kids can’t draw as well as adults, but with the right guidance, they can! Children like Ellie, age 11, can create impressive portraits with time and practice. Ellie’s portrait took over five hours to complete, showing how patience and focus help kids develop their skills.
Drawing Tips for Kids:
Spend More Time Drawing – Encourage kids to take their time and observe details. Use a timer to gradually increase drawing time for better results.
Focus on the Face Shape and Features – Pay attention to the spaces between facial features. Shading areas like the nose, cheeks, and forehead adds realism to the portrait.
With practice and persistence, kids can improve their drawing skills and create amazing portraits!
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.
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