Power tools are a blessing. Today was the second day on the job site. We accomplished a lot. The first anchor piece to Richard’s installation is showing much progress. The weather here is turning cold and the rain comes and goes. Personally I found the day to be delightful. Within a day of working together the three of us have found a successful system. Minus the slapstick moment of Yolanda hitting Richard with a plank of wood we are working well with each other. We’re cooking with gas.
Our workdays start with a team meeting covering the day’s plans and goals. Richard assigned me the task of maintaining the job site. I leave slightly earlier than the two and work on preparing everything for the day. Working in Bolivia is interesting. Power tools never seem to fit into the right plugs. The wood we are working with is extremely hard to deal with at times. I am constantly dealing with breaking drill bits and stubborn screws. Although these create problems they also make for a great learning experience. As Richard’s assistant I am learning more then I would from a class setting. Apprenticeship is a very traditional form of art teaching, it offers the unique chance to learn from a professional. No assignments, no grades, just raw experience.
I agree with you about the apprentice factor, and am glad you are able to have this opportunity. While theory is important; there is something to be said for an artist, who learns with their eyes and hands, to watch and do. I got a lot out of working for and with other artists.
ReplyDeleteI have heard David Mesple’ say something like "all artists are self taught, and the only difference between him and his students is experience" so you are able to watch your mentor gain experience, while you do as well.
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