So you can’t draw a stick figure?

One of my main memories from my Paint Along Studio years is the high number of people who would come through the door INSISTING they were "totally uncreative" and "couldn't draw a stick figure".

I just wanted to hug every one of them and reassure them that they will be ok. (I did hug some.)

So... if that worried person might have been you, here are three things to chat about:

1. By doing a guided Paint Along, the likelihood of ending up with a painting you'll like, is very, very high. So chill. You're not wasting your time. This might even be fun. ;)

2. You're in good hands! I have been doing this for years and I'm really good at explaining things. I'll tell you what brush to use and what colour/s will work. I'll even show you HOW to pick up the colour from the palette. With so much experience teaching both face-to-face and online, I've got a pretty good idea of how to help you. Just trust me (I wish that didn't sound dodgy... because it's true. You can.)

3. It's a pretty painless way of practicing 'Having a Learner's Mindset'. This is the wonderful belief that new experiences are opportunities to learn. In general, people with a learner's mindset are more open-minded, curious, and flexible, and are better able to adapt to their surroundings and absorb information. They are also more likely to be resilient, innovative, and able to act on feedback. Who wouldn't want that? So hand yourself over to your guide (that's me!) and enjoy not having to make decisions too much and Just Learn.

Look, there's so much else I talk about when I teach, both online and in person, but really, you've got this. Open yourself up to new experiences - I can highly recommend the arty ones!

Anna xxx

Back in my studio days… sigh. Lovely memories of a very busy time!