An Art Practice

After being admonished recently by my mentor for using the word “practice” to describe my making art, I thought about that word in a way I hadn’t before.  It is a word I heard frequently in art school and adopted without giving it much thought.  It is also commonly used to describe the creative process in interior design and architecture, as in, “He practices interior design.” “Practice” is used by musicians, yogis and dancers - and the list goes on. 

When I was teaching Karate, the word most commonly used to describe the act was, “training”, a term used by many athletes.  Whether the word “practice”, “rehearse” or “train” is used, the implication is that the doer is always on a path of exploration.  In Karate, I was taught the belief that only after one attains a black belt can she become open enough to truly learn.  So, the idea of being an expert in something and still practicing, training or rehearsing does not seem at odds.

I have been corrected and, as always, appreciate the feedback.  I will use the word, “work” to describe my act of making art and that which results.  I know that while I’m working on my art, I am on a path of exploration, a journey which requires an open mind.  For me, that part does require practice.