I am not a natural online presenter but I recognize that this is where the world’s eyeballs live, including my own. I was forced to understand this during the pandemic when all of my college courses shifted online and I had to scramble to figure out the technological setup that would enable me to run courses virtually. It was kind of fun but I qucikly learned that there are so many variables and so many technical details that even 5 years later I don’t have a strong global understanding of. The right lights, the right sound, editing, scripting - an entire set of new skills. At the time, I did a lot of synchronous teaching, which basically meant live. I also developed my first online asynchronous course which is still available on Udemy: Oil Painting Techniques, a course that I also run through OCAD U’s Continuing Studies program.
It’s strange that my first online course is on a topic that is so tactile and usually best done in person but it seems to still work, as current students enjoy doing it from home and the feedback remains positive.
The part of online teaching that I found refreshing in the beginning was that I was not in the classroom. It’s true that there is an alienating edge to this but I found that a pressure was lifted, it was somehow more relaxing for everybody to be in their own home spaces. Of course, that got old after a while and just felt lonely, especially as more cameras were turned off and I felt more and more like I was just talking into a digital black void. Institutions were adamant that we try to keep the same discipline of showing up and being captive for three hours segments, just as in real life. I think there is something there regarding a pressure or responsibility or structure that can keep you on track with your projects - you must show up at this time each week.
I am ready to build more courses now and I will start with drawing which I think is much easier to teach and is also a gateway into other art forms. It’s also a great way for anyone to dabble in or build some confidence in their creative abilities. I am going to post brief drawing lessons here as I generate them and eventually I will bundle them as independent courses. I noticed over the years that the one area of most pain for aspiring artists is consistency and keeping going, so these regular drawing posts could serve as a good prompt to get you started and keep you going as you try to gain more skills or deepen existing drawing abilities.
I wish this digital realm didn’t exist and I dream of one day living and doing things only IRL. How do you feel about it?
Next week I am starting a series of short videos that are meant to get you drawing. I will build a library of recorded demos that address technique, skill building, motivation, subject matter, and much more.
On a related note, I am very excited to let you know that I will be doing a live discussion with Siobhan Twomey of Drawing Life! We’ll be talking about life drawing and, in particular, the book The Natural Way to Draw. I think it will be an interesting and lively conversation. It would be great if you joined us and engaged with any questions you may have about life drawing. The stream will take place Tuesday March 18 at 10am EST on Substack. Hope to see you then!
For someone who has a head full of negative messages about who is allowed to be an artist I for one embraced the online learning. If I become overwhelmed with negative thoughts I can pause and come back later. If I don’t understand I can rewind and watch/listen again. Online eliminates the automatic comparison with other students that can be discouraging (in my head). I realize there is more joy & energy in teaching in person but there is value in sharing your gifts with those of us who grapple with the process. Mini lessons work for me. Looking forward to your future posts.
Sounds like all these initiatives ahead are super exciting - best of luck. I appreciate the 'consistency' lesson in this post. It's a good takeaway for me.