You’re teaching kids at Open Doors to draw. What’s the one thing you want them to leave with?

J: When I was working with the children at Open Doors and at workshops at the YMI, I only have a short time frame to work with them. It’s not enough time for the participants or students to produce something that they can take with them. It is not enough time for them to really get a solid working understanding of the process. ​

The main thing that I want them to take from it is to realize that they are artists already – regardless of what form it takes – that they already know how to draw. That started when they were little kids. The main thing I want them to realize is that it’s the importance of creative expression in itself, regardless of what form it takes. 
We emphasize drawing, because this is something you started with as a child. It’s in you already. So regardless of the outcome, it’s to process of making an effort. 

There’s a book called “Your Brain on Art.” It talks about how scientists have actually hooked up electrobes and other stuff to people’s arms, shoulders, etc., to actually measure blood pressure, and brain waves to show the positive benefits of people who are engaging in (and shortly after) the creative process. 

​So, regardless of what form that art might take, it’s to process of doing something. Make a creative effort. Express yourself.