Yesterday was the first day of my art class for kids. I was quite anxious throughout the day. I knew I had four students signed up and I looked forward to meet them. I was preparing most of the day by getting paint, tables and chairs ready, and I was excited at 4 p m when I heard the first knock on the door... The kids were all great: sweet, quiet and very very shy... It is funny how I always forget how they are (obviously) extremely shy on the first day when nobody knows each other. It is interesting how contagious it is! I felt it myself, as I was trying to get them involved in a chat about primary colors, the fun of mixing colors, and Matisse’s work...The first lesson was about colors, how they effect each other and how to mix the right shade. I was very impressed with their results, and happy to see how they all were into their paintings, spending a lot of time and concentration on the details. I know they didn’t want to talk, so I left them alone most of the time... I see myself in them totally - when I was 8-10, no way would I have involved myself in a conversation on the first day. So I hope (and feel sure) they will loosen up as we get used to each other. They were all great - that has got to be a great beginning. Next week is drawing a still life, I better come up with a funny, unusual & very visual decoration... I have some good ideas! I look forward - and I do hope my little group does too!
