Beginner's mind and the process of becoming an artist (a never-ending proposition)

Leah Tinari for Nike

Leah Tinari for Nike

Does an athlete become strong without doing reps and calisthenics?

Johnny Cash by Sterling Hundley

Does a musician stay on top of their craft without scales and exercises?

Emily Dickinson by Penelope Dullaghan

Does a writer become a great writer without writing every day, challenging their own edges, continuing to hone their skill and depth by returning again and again to the basics?

In a word, no. 

When you begin studies in any school setting, your sites are set on the final goal-- as they should be. As aspiring artists and designers and architects and film-makers, this means that you probably are ready to make amazing finished pieces, having been inspired by others who have made great work and having seen that your own hands and mind seem to have the capacity to do the same.

In a setting where you are learning the foundations of these skills, you may become impatient. You may long for greatness now.  And you should. But before you get ahead of yourself, realize that every practicing maker of note goes back to the basics ALL THE TIME in order to rebuild their chops. Every world-famous athlete still lifts weights (boring! but crucial!). If you take upon yourself this "beginner's mind" as you start your studies, you will gain so much from the process.

Certain exercises might seem below your level of expertise. Challenge yourself to find ways to make them interesting and deepening. Other exercises may seem to be beyond your scope or grasp. Enter into these with bravery and willingness to look foolish. Some things may interest you deeply-- run hard. Other things may be outside your natural inclinations-- press on. 

Your faculty are a team of caring individuals who also happen to be practicing artists. They are here to coach you into building a life-long practice of growth and development. We ourselves are constantly evolving, going back to the basics and reaching for new ground. Foundations never ends!

Charline Von Heyl