Art: A Simple Yet Intricate Subject by Shammarah

Art: A Simple Yet Intricate Subject by Shammarah - October 2016 Scholarship Essay

Pigmented smudge dusted my fingertips. The euphoric sound of pencils, pens and others alike permeated the classroom as I observed my students with pride. Suddenly, one of my pupils raised a hand caked with paint and asked, “Miss Bellande, why did you start teaching art?”

Smiling, I lifted my current work of art and proceeded to tell my tale enthusiastically.

“I’ve drawn ever since I was little. My back used to cramp as I hunched over my drawings with much excitement. My fingers would have remnants of smudge every night after I finished shading. My art would be praised by many. But I wasn’t always this good, you know.” I motioned to everyone. “I was taught; I practiced… And now, I feel the need to pass this to anyone who wants it.”

My pencil is my sword, ready to strike the paper with rhythmic strokes. Art has always been a passion of mine: from the many color pencils and crayons during childhood and now part of my beloved sketchbook. Throughout my years, my art teachers were always the ones who truly made me feel as if what they were teaching was their passion. I could sense that they enjoyed waking up every morning to teach, and that only deepened my appreciation for art.

Although I specialize in drawing, I find all forms of art intriguing which is an essential for an art teacher. This profession is an easy choice for me, but it is important to realize that a career shouldn’t be a task. “Doing what you love is freedom, loving what you do is happiness.” A challenge embarked with anticipation is what teaching should be.

I struggled to become the drawer I am today. Even now, there is still a lot of room for improvement. However, it was through dedication and the willingness to become better that helped me achieve my current skill level. I would definitely pass on my knowledge, tips, and skills pertaining to art to prospective students if the roles were reversed.