When Bette came to class on Sat. morning, she gave me one the most SPECIAL presents I have ever received. Bette has been attending Hidden Talent once a week on Saturdays and it was our Fifth Anniversary!!.Five years sounds like alot, but I counted the hours-(just shy of 500 hours or just 3 1/2 months of painting full time). She has grown immeasurably as an artist , has been an inspiration to others and is a wonderful friend. I will share her kind words as she has captured what I wish to do with each of you, my students.
The Teacher
I want to paint, so where do I begin? To see it all clearly,
And lay it all down so that others might see.
The bright springtime sky with the broad sweeping clouds,
Or the sunlight dancing 'mong leaves of a tree.
How can I do that, Where to begin?
I'll look for the chance, for they all say
When the pupil is ready the teacher will come.
Someone to teach me the night from the day.
The teacher arrived and so we begin,
"The shape is to start, so make sure that is right.
You must draw it correctly but shape is not all,
Composition will show it in just the right light.
Now I will teach you, it's values that show
The shape of the rose or the curve of the grape.
Yes, that is right, no colors to start,
It's the lights and it's dark that will give it the shape.
The shape is correct, you've done a great job.
Now comes the color, it's also called hue.
You must maintain the values and color's applied.
A little more red will warm up the blue.
That part's in the shade, in the dark so to speak,
So you'll need to make it a little more cool.
Yes, that's right, there is temperature there
Shade's cool, sun's warm, it's kind of a tool.
There are edges we watch as the masterpiece forms
Keep the focus quite sharp with edges so clear
With contrasts most great, the most light and most dark.
Line up side by side. You've nothing to fear!
No, you're not quite done, there is one more thing.
The highlights are added and the sparkle appears.
The very last touches will bring it to life
Put the sunshine on water, the glisten on tears.
Now sign your name. " is this really mine?
Did I really do that? No, it was not all me.
My teacher was there every step of the way.
Guiding hands and eyes , as I came to be,
An ARTIST, the dream of a lifetime. That's ME!
I can keep all the beauty, and moments in time!
Thank you my teacher, my life is now changed.
The gift you have given, is received . It is mine!
Bette Hogg
