Speaking of seeing people; I find my best work is inspired by spending time in a mall or busy people outlet. Ha! We usually think of going to the mall to pick up a sweater or a brand new bag or a coffee, but I go for the people-spotting! If you're in the mood to draw or paint, but just not sure what to do or where to set your imagery than fear not my friends. Help is at the nearest people outlet -- *ahem* I mean shopping mall. ;-)

Once you've found that perfect candidate for the art work of choice, you've a moral obligation to yourself to either walk up and request a photo and release of them or (if you're really quick) get a field sketch done of them. Hopefully, your model is seated or stationary. Please note: any photo op must be accompanied by a signed release stating the person being photographed has allowed you to take their picture, and agrees with your stated intentions with said photo. If you've not stalked this person in a creepy sorta way, and they are relatively carefree it all works out for everyone. They might get a little royalty money from the art sales you make from finding inspiration in them.

Moral of the story today. People are everywhere; make the most of your day by helping others to help yourself. Go out there and get to know someone. You never know if that next drawing will have them in mind.

I enjoy talking with the kids in my - wait-a-minute; did I just refer to my students as "kids?!" They're not - really. In fact, I hope I don't offend anyone when I say that my students are sometimes more adult than some grownups I know. Though the forum they join me in is that of a drawing class we are free to talk about any subject matter (within reason of course) and sitting around the Round Table of Maxin gives all those present a sense of equality. My students seem to enjoy the freedom to be part of a 'round-table' discussion where we philosophize, improve our drawing and challenge our musical knowledge while slacker radio's 'movie music' channel plays on in the background.

As busy as my schedule can be at times it's nice to look forward to Friday not only because it's the end of the working week - but also the time when I get to meld minds with some very creative people!

I wonder if a Socrates Cafe is in order for the studio soon. For those who are unfamiliar with Socrates Cafe's there is a great little book out there (I have a copy in the studio) called, Socrates Cafe: A Fresh Taste of Philosophy, by Christopher Phillips. I just found it on Amazon.com for $11.16! Here's the current link:
http://www.amazon.com/Socrates-Cafe-Fresh-Taste-Philosophy/dp/039332298X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1336237926&sr=1-1
Anywho, the short version is this: a group of inquisitive types gather together after being challenged to read one book or another based on current discussion and events; this group uses the book(s) as a means to generate deep thought discussion and debate. It's nice if a beverages and snacks are available to help fuel the mind in these talks too.... I've participated in a few some time back, and while best in a library I believe the Art Studio and it's growing library along with the fact we do offer the occasional snack and ever-present hot or cold drink makes for a great place to continue solving the world's problems one book at a time!

Thoughts anyone?!