The Path to Professionalism

[Alexandra Tyng]

Mari, beautiful drawing! I could stare at it for a very long time and keep appreciating something new. I think any artwork, drawing or painting, is more a step in a neverending process rather than a badge of success.

As Bill pointed out, there's going to be more and more competition as realism takes hold as a force in the art world. It's easy to get started. There are a lot of willing customers for inexpensive portraits made directly from photographs. But as you move up in the ranks, the going gets tougher. To create work that is distinctive, original, and expressive at that level takes years of study and practice, and it also takes vision and conviction and humility and self-confidence.

[Paul Foxton]

I find this both humbling and inspiring in equal measure, I'm very much looking forward to seeing some more of these posts.

Originally Posted by Mari DeRuntz

even failing is good, that everytime you fail you get closer to getting it right.

I should be really close by now then!
Seriously though, I couldn't agree more. I think I learn much more from my failures than I do from my successes, but of course, you have to be prepared to learn the lessons.

I know what you're saying about each piece being another step on the journey, another point I agree with whole-heartedly, but the drawing really is beautiful, Mari.

[Elizabeth Schott]

Mari, it has been so wonderful to watch you these past three years!

It's hard to believe you left a wonderful job as a chef to take on the academic art world, but we are certainly glad you did! This drawing just proves it - it is lovely.

Your dedication/drawing is inspiring - just as your supporter - Mr. Whitaker!

[Mari DeRuntz]

Thank you for your kind voices - old friends and new. I knew this thread would not be the coup Mr Whitaker hoped for, but I am willing to sometimes be social if even one artist sees that, yes, Art is being taught and pursued in small studios all over this enormously conflicted modern globe.

It will always be a very small room of people who are interested in this sort of work. Modernity offers too many easy paths to call ourselves artists before we're even crudely competent with charcoal, and because I believe in this training so completely, I know that I'll only have a nostalgic attachment to this drawing in a few years. In fact, the best around me would destroy something so flawed.

I can't wait to see Bill's examples in 10 years, because I'll tell you what, the 14-year-olds who spend summer sessions here - now they are really something to watch.

[Janel Maples]

Originally Posted by Paul Foxton

I find this both humbling and inspiring in equal measure

My feelings exactly. Thank you Bill and Mari.

[Richard Bingham]

Excellent thread, excellent work. Many thanks to Bill and Mari both !