To Teach (Design) or Not To Teach

That is the (design) question. (?) I would love to hear your opinion on this topic:

Should Designers Teach What They Know?

There are probably two or three different ideas on this. Some designers keep their cards close; we don't know their 'real' secrets, while other designers lay their cards on the table for all to see. Some business owners believe that if you 'teach them' they won't need you. There is fear that the educated consumer will purchase the materials on their own and complete the project without professional advice, experience and fees. Others believe teaching builds customer relationships, loyalty, (free) publicity and knowledge - which ultimately equals 'more' revenue. There is another point of view that I completely agree with: Designers Get Schooled and Improve By Teaching! We find out that there are many things about our own subject that we didn't know. Our students teach us! Two of the greatest design teachers of all time are Martha Stewart and Dorothy Draper. Martha has based her entire empire on the act of 'teaching' others to be as good as her and look at her omnimedia sales! She teaches everything from flower arranging and gardening to crafts and interior decorating and cooking. I would even go so far as to say that Martha is the wealthiest teacher on the planet.

To Teach (design) or Not To Teach. That is the (design) question?

FLOWER SCHOOLS SHOWN

Beach Blooms

Saipua

Vintage Gardener

Paula Pryke

Jane Packer

Beautiful Blooms

Squam Workshops June 2-6, 2010

There is something pulling me to this lakeside event....and I might need a little help from my friends - Weekend art retreats at a fabulous turn-of-the-century camp on Squam Lake, New Hampshire. A magical string of wants and needs and desire; to escape, discover, renew, enjoy. I have been reading the stories of Squam. I have a file of images from the lucky ones who have been there. (I play a slideshow of them often) I've read the words of workshop leaders and seen the happy videos of gratitude and nature. So I've decided I will go to Squam and I am hoping to attend in June 2010. (I believe all the details will be available in Jan. 2010) I'm going to need a lot of faith and a little help from my friends out there. Perhaps a reader will feel that a penny here or a dollar there, donated to my Squam fund would be a worthy cause for a Canadian creative like me. There might be a person out there who might say 'YES' to my Squam vision. A place that I am so drawn to and a journey I know that will become a new body of work that I can share with the world. IMAGINE turning down a long drive that leads you through a grove of pine, white birch, maple and oak trees and brings you right to the edge of a sparkling lake. As you step out of your car, you can see vintage turn-of-the-century cabins tucked along the shore and smell the pine needles that cover the road. It's an ideal setting for a creative retreat and that's exactly what they have waiting for you at Squam Art Workshops. If you are looking for an experience that will provide you with the time, space, and inspiration to recharge your creative spirit, this might be just the ticket. Maybe you could join me for an event that is designed to foster a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore a range of mediums. There are a whole range of classes to choose from that include: painting, printmaking, journaling, doll making, writing, knitting, sewing, photography, crochet, sculpture, felting and some classes that combine several of those elements into one workshop.

The approximate $3000 U.S. fundraising breakdown: (and so worth it!!!)

1. Workshops $900 (includes meals, accomodations and all workshops)

2. Airfare from Toronto (return) $950

3. Hotel night before and last day $300

4. Meals 2 days (before and after) $50

5. Car Rental and Gas (1.5 hour drive from Manchester NH airport to location) $200

6. Spending/Misc./Supplies/Purchases $600

Of course, I'm shooting for the moon, but the bottom line money needed is $2400.

If you would like to know about the Squam Workshops (and want to come with me!), please click here and if you would like to help me get to Squam, and wish to donate in US Dollars please click here - my Canadian friends...to donate in Canadian Dollars, please click here. LPxo