“Coming to Life” 36×48
Recently I have read a number of articles and blogs that suggest that practice of technique is more important than talent. In fact some have gone so far as to say that there is really no such thing as talent. Putting in the hours, they say, is what matters. Say what? I must object! Being a colorist, I know that there are elements of my painting style that cannot be taught or explained. It is an innate sense of what to do next, which colors to use, and how to manipulate them to enhance rather than detract from the overall composition. Comments from other accomplished artists “Your use of color is amazing.” “I don’t know how you can put those colors together and keep a harmonious and peaceful painting.” “You have a fearless us of color that is admirable.” confirm my opinion.
My personal testimony lies in the music world. I studied piano for 10 years; by the time I was looking at colleges my instructor encouraged me to pursue piano on the college level with the goal of becoming a concert pianist. I enjoyed playing piano. I did it well. But I could never sit at the keys and create a piece of music which by the way frustrated me to no end because I longed for creative expression from my soul. So I opted instead for another line of study that ultimately led me to the visual arts. That longing for expression has been fulfilled now for years.
Combine an innate longing to create with recognition that (even as an experienced teacher) there are techniques, styles, and colors I use that cannot be taught and I find myself firmly planted on the side that says there IS such a thing as God given talent. That said, I also will be the first to say that every talented musician still needs to practice, every gifted painter still needs to paint regularly. Both must study if they are to progress in that talent. But to say that practice, no matter how many hours, weeks, or years, can replace being gifted by the Divine? Let’s just say I “strongly disagree.”
What do you think? Where do you land in the push/pull between talent and education? I’d like to hear your thoughts.
Deborah Gall 
June 21st, 2013 at 9:31 pm
I’m with you on this one, Deb! The brain needs practice in order to consolidate learning and create all those wonderful neural connections, but there is really something to “innate” talent, too! Some things we possess that go beyond our ability to explain “how” it came to be! God-given, I believe!
The fun in life is uncovering what that is and joyfully proceeding in the use of it! That’s how I feel about my teaching–something that was given in me to do. It comes from deep inside and is so much a part of who I am, I cannot explain it to practice only.
Teaching children, one sees it everyday: they come with so many multi-faceted talents, many even unaware! Unfortunately judgement can nip things in the bud and prevent the blooming–or at least delay it. Encouraging growth and giving gentle nudges forward is a sometimes a fine line to walk. Children have taught me that sometimes I get it and sometimes I miss the mark, no matter how meaningful! Yep, this goes beyond practice only!