An Artistic Diversion

Spring Break has come and gone, with sadly little family time to show for it. I did manage to take Friday off to spend with the boys, highlighted by a trip to the bowling alley. It always feels good to know that even after 10 months or so since my last trip there, I can still pull down a 160+ average over 3 games. Not great, but certainly passable.  But I digress.

Saturday, we took a trip as a family to the Huntsville Museum of Art, where our youngest son was among many area students selected to have their artwork displayed. It was quite interesting to see a nice-quality caption card with his name affixed to the wall next to his piece. Almost 10, I still marvel how one day he looks older than his years, and the next day, just by the angle of the pose, he seems even younger. The boy likes to draw, and I think I'm finally starting to figure out how, as a parent, to get out of the way (sometimes) and let my children explore their capabilities and their interests.

Here's a close-up of his piece, a mixed media creation using watercolor and crayon:

After the trip to the museum, we went over to Hobby Lobby so the boys could buy some models.  The photo below, taken at the museum beforehand, gave me the notion to also buy him a sketch book and some charcoal pencils.

I have no idea how long this hobby will last, but I for one am certainly not going to do anything but encourage it.  After a little tutoring today in charcoal pencil technique, he's diving right in.  I can't wait to see what imagination comes to life on paper.