Value of stretch learning in arts

When you choose a photo to paint do you always select one that you are confident that you could succeed with? If that's the case, you are most likely staying within my comfort zone. The learning experience remains limited when an artist stays in that zone and doesn't stretching him or herself.

If you decide not to push yourself and stay in the comfort zone, there is a risk that you won't be learning as much as you could. 

There are three learning zones: the comfort zone, the stretch zone and the panic zone. Most of us naturally drift towards the comfort zone. However, the main place that learning and development takes place is in the stretch zone.

How do you know that you are approaching a stretch zone? You will likely get butterflies or feel the urge to walk away or give up prematurely.  Whatever the sign, it is important to recognise that it indicates your personal stretch zone and an opportunity to make a decision there and then to grow. If you don’t take up jump you might never do so

You might think that if working in the stretch zone helps improve your skills, then working in the panic zone is better (more is better yes?). Unfortunately, research has demonstrated that this can lead to ineffective learnings and weaker performance.

If being in the stretch zone is challenging why do some artists push themselves?  The answer probably lies with the artist's desire to better their art.

This week's artist find is Nicola Morrin

Have a great week,

Danielle