Carefree vs. Careful: The Art of Balancing Freedom and Precision in Painting

by Sansanee Boonyad

September 29, 2024

A painting demonstration from watercolor class by Sansanee Boonyad, inspired by the images from Jan Goodall's website

Have you ever wondered why adults often find it challenging to embrace their inner artistic freedom? Why does learning to paint seem like such a steep climb for grown-ups compared to the carefree approach of younger artists?

As an artist and painting instructor, I've observed this fascinating phenomenon time and time again in my classes. The contrast between the unbridled creativity of younger students and the careful, sometimes hesitant steps of adult learners is striking - and backed by fascinating research in psychology and neuroscience!

Picture this: An eight years old student picks up a brush, dips it in vibrant watercolors, and fearlessly applies paint to paper. They're not worried about the outcome; they're simply immersed in the joy of creation. Their brush dances across the paper, leaving a trail of spontaneous beauty. This aligns perfectly with what psychologists call a "growth mindset," a concept developed by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck. Young learners often believe their abilities can be developed through effort and learning, making them more open to experimentation and less afraid of mistakes.

Now, imagine an adult beginner. Before even touching a brush, they're full of questions. "What's the right technique?" "How do I avoid making mistakes?" Their desire for perfection often overshadows the pleasure of exploration. This careful approach isn't just about personality - it reflects deeper cognitive changes that occur as we age. Research on "crystallized intelligence" suggests that adults tend to rely more on accumulated knowledge and experience, leading to a more analytical, structured approach to new tasks.

But here's the exciting part: neuroscience shows us that our brains remain plastic throughout our lives. We can learn to balance our adult analytical skills with the playful creativity of our younger selves. It's all about finding that sweet spot between carefree experimentation and careful consideration.

I have had rewarding experiences teaching students of all ages, especially older adults. I’ve observed that students learn and improve much more when they are open. They grow when they are willing to leave behind issues, concerns, or troubles from daily life and simply show up as they are, without expectation. In a safe, nonjudgmental classroom environment, students often find it easier to quiet the inner critic and reconnect with their innate creativity. With this openness, they are able to explore, practice, and gradually develop more intentional and refined work. Over time, the process becomes one of growth, self-discovery, and joy.

The world of art is full of wonders, waiting for you to explore. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or returning to a long-lost passion, remember that every masterpiece begins with a single stroke. Your artistic adventure is calling - why not answer it today?​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Note: This article was written with AI assistance and reviewd by the author.