----- Original Message -----
From: "David J. Bockman"
The only point I might make Andy, is that a beginner in any art form
(unless
extraordinarily blessed with self-awareness or ability in that medium, a
'natural' if you will) might not know 'how to learn' as efficiently or
readily as a more experienced artist.
-------------

Sure! This is why the guidance of the teacher or those more experienced is
key. This is why beginners do best by following instruction rather than
trying to first understand why they should follow it. When the teacher
says, "Do this, over and over." it is worthless for the beginner (who by
definition lacks the fundamental understanding of what he/she should be
doing) to decide that it might be better to just read a book instead. When
beginning students start dictating the teaching methods, there is no value
in the process. Obviously, I'm talking about more than bonsai here...
-------------

On the other hand, a more experienced artist might not be able to 'empty
his
cup' and embrace whatever techniques, philosophy, and aesthetics that are
being taught.
David J. Bockman
---------------

Absolutely true. It is often hard to disregard what one believes to be
one's own level of understanding, so that new instruction can become skill
and understanding. This is why when someone goes to learn from someone
else, they need to empty their cup and actually become a student.

Seeking instruction with the idea that one "may" accept it if it jives with
currently held ideas is utterly worthless; a waste of time for both the
teacher and the "student."

Kind regards,
Andy Rutledge
zone 8, Texas

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