Genn's Lessons

I have been reading the Robert Genn newsletters for more than 10 years, almost from inception.  Not only is he a successful painter but he is extremely active in the art world (and elsewhere).  He helps anyone interested in art through his sharing of his process, philosophy, and humour, and he does occasional workshops.

One of his readers shared the ten most important things she learned during a recent work shop.

"Here are my top ten things that I learned at Hollyhock";

10. Look three times. Think twice. Paint once.  No Licking...

9. Humming like a bee is cool.  Visual and auditory mix....

8. Load your brush.  Paint like a millionaire....

7. Veggies make me feel good.  Stay mindful and relax....

6. Life is a gift. Art is a gift. Be grateful.  Buddah says....

5. Blue glazes.  Unifying colour....

4. Stop apologizing.  No guilt required....

3. Fathers and daughters can be pals.  Really....

2. The greatest gift you can give to the world is to be your most awesome self.

1. Go to your room.

I remember the first time I came across "Go to your room" from Robert.  It basically sums up what has to be done to advance your craft.  This was later supported by Malcolm Gladwell's "Outliers".  In that tomb Gladwell expands the activity in the room to include a learning feedback loop, else you do the same old thing and get what you always got.  Another respected artist who actually knows art could fill this role nicely.

From the teaching I have done, this advice fills the largest need.

Paint on.

Too Much On?  Scrape it Off!