We learn by doing

Regardless of the medium in question, learning to work with a new artistic technique can be a great challenge, and with polymer clay it wouldn't be different.

The internet and the excess of information that we have available online may seem attractive and very inviting, but they should not replace the time of physical contact with the medium of our choice.

Through videos and tutorials, we learn more about polymer clay and acquire a kind of “library” full of theories. What almost nobody tells you is that in art and crafts, there is a constant exchange between the creator and the medium, and this is completely individual, especially when we talk about polymer clay, an element that reacts (and interacts) with those who manipulate it.

Polymer clay can respond differently depending on the skin temperature of those who handle it, as well as hand sweat, humidity, external temperature, season of the year... By practicing, you get to know not only different tools and brands of polymer clay, but also the result of the interaction between you. By studying the theory, we become familiar with the medium, but nothing replaces individual practice, discoveries, mistakes and successes.

The interaction between the artist and the art medium is fundamental, it is the most important (and irreplaceable) part of the whole process. Each practice is unique, there is no absolute truth - what works for me, may not work for you and the reverse is true too.

It's kind of poetic, the exchange between our energy and the surrounding universe is also related to the art medium we choose.

For all that, don't replace your bench time with YouTube videos. Use all the theory learned as a starting point, but always remember that only your practice and your discoveries will make you fly high.

In a chat turned into a 'podcast' between the amazing Ginger Davis Allman and Lucy Struncova, Ginger claims that we learn by doing. We need practice to master the material and techniques, and the she makes a brilliant analogy: if you really want to learn to play tennis, you need to understand the rules and then practice, practice, practice. You can watch hours of tennis on TV, but you'll still only be able to play tennis if you're on the court.

Fantastic, right?

Take this idea with you - I always leave this reminder on my workbench - want to learn how to work with polymer clay? Learn the rules of the game, do your research and study, but get your hands dirty and practice, practice, practice!

This is the focus of Coletivo Polymer Clay: a pleasant exchange of information, curiosities, tips and ideas to help you fly high. Together, we will build a solid foundation, guide you in the first steps, stimulate creative thinking, discoveries and individualized tests, without underestimating the incredible potential that is in each artist.

After all, there are no shortcuts. We learn by doing.

Text originally published in Coletivo Polymer Clay.