Minecraft Can Be Good for Your Kid's Drawing Skills
While many parents seek ways to limit screen time, Minecraft can actually help kids develop valuable drawing and design skills. The game’s 3D world-building encourages kids to think in perspective, much like learning two- and three-point perspective in drawing.
One of my students, Carter, used Minecraft to model a modern building after practicing perspective drawing in class. This exercise helped him visualize space, structure, and flow—skills that directly enhance his traditional drawing abilities.
In short, Minecraft fosters creativity, spatial awareness, and problem-solving, all of which contribute to improving drawing skills. Let your kids play, and encourage them to draw their Minecraft creations!
Does Your Kid Dream of Architecture? Drawing Lessons Are a Good Place to Begin!
For kids interested in architecture, perspective drawing is a great starting point. Recently, I introduced my student Carter, age 11, to the world of architecture through perspective lessons. His passion for modern architecture grew as he took on complex house designs.
To deepen his learning, I arranged a meeting with local architect Charles Di Piazza, AIA, at a construction site in Austin. Carter learned about site analysis, design sketches, and the architectural process. This hands-on experience connected his drawing lessons to real-world architecture, inspiring him even more.
This rewarding opportunity highlights the power of combining art and architecture to inspire the next generation of architects.
Making Art Is Good for Your Brain
Making art isn’t just a creative outlet—it’s a brain booster! Recent studies are now backing up what many of us have known intuitively for years: creating art enhances brain function. Whether you're a youngster, an older adult, or somewhere in between, the process of making art has positive cognitive effects. A study focused on newly retired individuals (ages 62-70) found that engaging in art-making can delay or even reverse age-related cognitive decline. In contrast, simply learning about art through appreciation showed no such benefits. The key lies in the active "doing" of art, which engages your hands, eyes, and brain in complex ways. This form of global thinking helps improve cognitive function by combining small details with the big picture. Don't just read about it—get your hands in the paint, and boost your brain!
Feeling Stuck While Learning to Draw: How to Turn a Major Meltdown Into a Brilliant Breakthrough!
If you're passionate about learning to draw, it's inevitable: some days will feel like a struggle. As artists, we sometimes face the "uncanny valley" of drawing—when your creation just doesn't match the vision in your head, leading to frustration and self-doubt. But this is part of the process! Even young artists like Emily experience these challenges. Through understanding emotions, like anger or disappointment, and embracing the struggles, breakthroughs happen. Drawing isn't just about technical skills, it's about persistence, self-awareness, and accepting the messy parts of the creative journey. If you’ve ever felt stuck, remember—embrace the bumps, and breakthroughs are just around the corner!
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.
Increased Neural Matter? Yes, Please!
Drawing isn’t just for artists—it's a brain-boosting activity that enhances visual imagery, fine motor skills, and procedural memory. Studies show that artists have more neural matter in key areas of the brain, confirming what I've observed for years: drawing strengthens problem-solving abilities. Procedural memory, the brain’s "how-to" memory, plays a vital role in daily tasks and learning new skills. At LZM Studio, drawing helps both kids and adults improve cognitive function, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. Drawing exercises both sides of the brain, making it a powerful tool for development in school, work, and life.
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!
Hey, Tomato!
Discover "Tomato," a beautiful pastel artwork by LZM Studio, created on high-quality Stonehenge paper, measuring 8 x 8 inches. Priced at $100 plus shipping and tax, this unique piece brings vibrant color to your space.
It’s been a while since I’ve shared updates, but I’m excited to announce upcoming online and Skype lessons, new student drawings, and artwork! Stay tuned for valuable drawing tips, workshops, and behind-the-scenes insights into running my one-woman art business. Check back soon for more!