|
Before I began to frequent the SOG forum I spent a lot of time on WetCanvas' portraiture board. I really enjoyed offering critiques, where requested, to people who seemed to be at a level where they could benefit from suggestions and implement them. Sometimes it seemed as if the right hints could have the potential of helping a person rise to the next stage of proficiency and that was very satisfying.
When I was wrestling with a problem I also tried to take advantage of others' expertise and sometimes got great advice; at other times what was offered didn't seem germane or particularly helpful.
Knowing what kinds of input inspire me, I try to tailor my own suggestions accordingly. I don't respond unless I can be constructive and I try to keep in mind the first tenet of medicine: Primo non nocere - First of all, do no harm.
I'm always amazed at the patience and kindness displayed by people like Karin Wells, Chris Saper, Steven Sweeney, William Whitaker and Marvin Mattelson. They are true saints in their wilingness to offer encouragement and a hand up to an aspiring fellow artist. May their brushes long be limber and may the gods smile upon them!
|