03 June, 2004 - 4:28 p.m.

I want to write about how much this art course has changed me in such a short time. I don't know if I can choose words to describe it.

As an example, there is a girl called Amy in my class. She's 19, and hyperactive. When we had our orientation day, we all chose the spaces we wanted to work in, and set up a table and an easel for ourselves. Amy set up next to me, and I inwardly groaned, imagining the year ahead to be one of ignoring her incessant chatter.

In the last month, I've begun to love this girl for her amazing strength and pure joy that she projects. She is hyperactive, but she is because she is, not because she has anything to prove. I find it so refreshing in a world with so many people pretending to be something that they're not.

I've learned that I'm nowhere near the most talented artist around, but it no longer bothers me, because I love being surrounded by talented people.

When we first started watching videos about various artists, it depressed me because I knew I'd never have that talent. Now I feel inspired. Not because I think I have it, just because I'm in awe of those that do.

When I started the course, I whinged about never having days off between work and study. Now I go into the studio on my days off, and weekends are just time away from it - spent looking forward to my next class.

My life is so much more balanced. I now see my friends from school and uni when I'm not at work or at art. I'm better friends with my work collegues because I tell them about what I'm doing in art, and I share my life with them. I'm no longer so reserved about my private life. I have a quiet social life, and the times I have to myself are precious.

Life is simply wonderful. I love learning. I love creating. I love the people I'm meeting and working with. I want this time to last forever.

It would all be perfect if only...

But that will be saved for another entry.

previous - next

diaryland