Lessons about myself

I am glad that my search for creative expression through art is just that: creative. I found out recently that I have the tendency to go about it in a 'perfectionist' manner, wanting to learn and master all the theory and techniques. It is true that some basics are needed, like color theory and how to choose colors that complement or contrast according to need. But at the end of the day, the teacher reminded me that one practices, tries out different ways of applying strokes and in the end develops a personal style. As I observe the other students who have been learning for a long time, they share that they are gradually developing a personal style of painting how they perceive a scene or object. There is no 'one correct way' or even choice of color to portray something. This is 'art'! This is opening up parts of myself that scientific accuracy has kept under wraps. This is symbolic of a midlife journey where 'not knowing' is ok, or rather that there are many ways of approaching life. The fundamentalist faith does not help here actually - because so much is boxed orthodoxy - one is reminded to take care not to be misled in interpreting Scripture. This is not to say that relativism is ok when it comes to God's Word. But at the same time, there must be ways of approaching it honestly, faithfully and yet creatively, seeking insights and applications that are relevant to all sorts of situations.

Art is a blessed discovery and gift for me at this 'late' age. At school the teachers always seemed to expect their students to know how to draw and paint without much instruction, and never helped us to first of all grow (or rather explore) a creative instinct that must dwell in each of us. Our beloved Creator has shown us this aspect of himself and I believe has placed into each person some form of creative spirit, waiting for the chance to be released for his glory.