revisiting

I had a chance this week to revisit old skills that I haven't used for years. As a student of Graphic Design in the late 1970's, I was taught by some of the best designers in the country at that time. Our teachers were all hands on. They had to be practicing artists to get the job. A lot like TAFE teachers today.
It was a pleasure working on this job as I reflected on what those gifted people taught me so long ago. Gaining the skills was very project based. An artist literally showed you how to use the tools and materials and then watched you practice. This is how I learned to choose brushes, measure accurately, brush rule, mix paint, hand letter and present artwork.
Many of my teachers had long careers behind them. They were at the forefront of graphics for advertising and the print industry. Some of the illustrators had designed and produced the finished art for Australia's money and stamps. Others had spent their career illustrating books and ads.
One vivacious teacher had learnt to draw and perfected his skill as a soldier in Korea. He had survived 5 beach head assaults to go to Hollywood and paint scenery and then to Australia.
Some of these artists had such a level of skill that you couldn't quite imagine how anyone could make such beautiful work.
I have never attained that level of skill. Times change. Illustration made way for photography so the demand was not there. Practicing artists typically adapt to the conditions especially if they relate to the print industry.
Illustration is making its way back in to popularity but that level of dexterity seems to have gone. Technology gives us an out clause.
When I was working as a Graphic Designer you could work for a week on a job on the desk and if you weren't careful it could all be ruined in an instant.
Now you just delete latest move!
Vicki