When people ask about my art school experience, they often expect tales of revolutionary techniques or groundbreaking artistic revelations. But the most valuable lesson I learned wasn't about a single breakthrough moment—it was about comprehensive, foundational skill-building that transformed how I approach art.
My time at SUNY Cortland wasn't just about learning to paint or throw pottery. It was about developing a holistic understanding of visual art that would become second nature. Through traditional training that spanned multiple mediums—from delicate figure drawing to expansive oil painting—I discovered that true artistic mastery isn't about flashy techniques, but about understanding core principles.
Each class became a building block of knowledge. Composition, color theory, form, light, and technique weren't just abstract concepts, but interconnected elements I could manipulate with increasing confidence. My professors weren't just instructors; they were mentors who nurtured not just technical skills, but artistic vision.
I'll never forget our plein air painting classes, where we'd venture into the forest, bus packed with easels and eager students. Those outdoor sessions weren't just about painting landscapes—they were lessons in observation, in capturing the nuanced interplay of light, shadow, and color in real-time. Painting amid rustling leaves and dappled sunlight, we learned to see the world differently.
One particularly memorable experience was reading to a professor while he painted skies in his industrial studio—a space that seemed to breathe creativity. Watching him work, I realized art is as much about process as product. His dedication to capturing the ethereal nature of skies taught me that mastery comes from patient, persistent practice.
By the time I graduated, I had something far more valuable than a degree: a comprehensive toolkit that allowed me to approach any artistic challenge with confidence. Whether confronting a blank canvas or experimenting with new techniques, I possessed the fundamental skills to translate vision into reality.
Art school wasn't about creating masterpieces—it was about becoming a versatile, knowledgeable artist capable of continuous growth and exploration. I am grateful!
p.s. the photo is me proud of my filthy feet after working in the studio barefoot!
