One Toe at a Time

Sometimes all it takes is putting one's toe in the water... as the follower of this blog knows, I've been trying for quite some time to encourage an Art Rebellion against the World of Ugly. Often I go it alone, but whenever I have the chance, and a willing participant, I try my best to foster the idea of collaborative art. This has two benefits. First, it increases the amount of creativity in the world. And two it brings people together in a fun way for the purpose of creating beauty. I really like this idea. So I try as often as I can. Seldom succeed, but I still try. Anyway, this was one of those times that worked, and so I present to you Art Rebellion #31. Here we go...

Here is the first effort of someone who said "I can not do art!" ... Nevertheless, once pen and napkin was in her hand, she drew something that surprised her. So she was willing to try again next time.

Next drawing surprised her again! So, she *can* draw after all. She just needed a little bit of friendly encouragement. What did I say to help? I said this: "Fear of what others will think is called 'insecurity' and this is what keeps most people believing that they can not do art. They are so worried about what others may think, they do not even try, but instead say they have no drawing talent. But drawing talent is more about a sense of freedom than technical skill. The first thing is to overcome one's fear. Then after that, it is only a matter of practice."

Then I suggested doing a small collaboration. Since she is from China I decided to ask for some help with my Chinese Calligraphy. She taught me how to make the characters for 'Good Sake'. And that was how this combination came about.

And this.

Finally she was daring enough to attempt to draw a Hand. And I was drunk enough to attempt the same. Side by side go the hands of the drunken artist and the new art student. Maybe she will keep trying to improve. What do you think?