Duffy Painting Instruction at Bird Street Community Center; Week Three

The past few classes we've been painting Portraits, Still Life, and From Memory.

I am most challenged with students staying focused, and to some extent disciplined. I have noticed there's a steady level of interpersonal drama that interferes with activity frequently. Most of the students are 10 years old with a few as old as 12. The staff who represent half of the class are 16 to 19 years old, but are exceedingly disruptive. We get work done nonetheless and it is hardly discouraging; maybe just exhausting!

I am appreciative of the respect and concern the students and staff have for my presence.... most are polite, helpful and appreciative. I am sharing as many tricks of the trade with them to allow them to free up their brushes to paint. And so it has been as such: freedom in the work is what I am most attracted to and in awe of.

The students, regardless of age or previous experience are painting almost 90% of the time. It was my intention to teach through doing, and that has been the result.

I am planning a class of drawing foundation skills Thursday.... this is an area of greatest need for the group.

This has been an exceptional opportunity for all involved.... especially me.