Going back to school

[Lynn T. McCallum]

When I went back to art school way back in 1992, Connie Erickson was teaching at Watkins Institute. Michele is right about checking out what the students are producing. When I saw Connie's work and what her students were doing, it was all I needed to know to start taking classes at Watkins Institute in Nashville.

Shop around, going back to school for a degree may not be what you need. If you have a good strong art background, think about a few really good classes to concentrate on your weaknesses and a couple of workshops, then if you feel that isn't enough, then consider the BA or BFA. Take a look at your work now. How are your drawing skills? Every good painting starts with a great drawing as a base. Maybe just find a good instructor in your area and explore drawing for a while. It really is up to you. Personally, UGA was sort of a waste (Go Dawgs). Evaluate what you want to do and where you want to be in three years from now and go for it. This is just from my personal experience and there is tons more out there for me to learn. There are other folks out there with even better ideas, but your the one doing this, so do what feels right in your heart and mind.

A recommended read that may help in your recent pursuit is, 'The Artist's Way' and it was written by Julia Cameron. It is a great book and it will keep you focused on your art when the turkeys get you down. The turkeys will get you down and this book is a good defense against them.

Good luck and keep us posted.