Life Drawing - Week 5 Walkout

Last week was a washout due to life overload - builders trashing my flat (and clothes due to lack of dustsheets), a bit of new job stress and a stag do - so that's what happened to week 4. There was a lot of catching up to do in week 5, unfortunately Andy our usual inpirational teacher had to attend a funeral - leaving us in the hands of the kind of teacher that made me give up art at the age of 14. After asking if there were any beginners, she launched into a series of fast poses - a bit like asking someone learning tennis to have a few quick games with Andy Murry. After that barrage, I was disorientated, frustrated and on the road to defeat. We then went to a long pose, and by this time I couldn't make a mark without it feeling wrong - I had the drawing equivalent of writer's block. Teaching is not walking around the room counting down the time left of the pose, layering pressure where there is already enough, seeding doubt where there is plenty and casting a critical eye where one is used to a calm voice filled with wisdom and support. After 20 minutes, I grabbed my coat and walked out - I was furious with myself, but I couldn't stick it out. Next week, it's back on the metaphorical horse and I will be hanging on for dear life until I get my nerve back.