Back to School, Art Class Edition: Why I’ll Always Be a Student
Summer is winding down, the air is starting to crisp up, and while most people associate this time of year with backpacks, sharp pencils, and first-day jitters for kids, I’m over here having my own adult version of “back to school.”
Right now, I’m en route to my latest endeavor: a screenprinting on fabric class at my local community college.
Before we even get to the studio, though, we have to talk about the drive. The commute to art class has quietly become one of my favorite sacred rituals. It is pure, unadulterated me time. The car is my sanctuary—a judgment-free zone where I can blast music, host a one-person dance party, scream at the top of my lungs if the week was too heavy, or just sit in complete, golden silence. It’s the ultimate release before stepping into a space dedicated entirely to creativity.
I’ve come to realize that I’ll be an avid learner forever. You truly never stop growing, and there is something incredibly empowering about choosing to learn just for the joy of it. Returning to community college as an adult—whether to pick up a brand-new skill or revisit an art form I haven't touched since my undergrad days—is one of the best gifts I give myself. No pressure, just pure curiosity.
This screenprinting class in particular feels like hitting the artistic jackpot. It seamlessly blends so many mediums I already adore:
- Drawing out fresh ideas
- Carving precise details
- Printing bold graphics
- Designing patterns that repeat and flow
- Fiber arts and working with tactile textiles
It’s all of my creative loves colliding in one place.
Building up a repertoire of skills isn't about mastering everything; it’s about keeping your mind open, your hands busy, and your spirit curious. So here’s to the joy of being a lifelong student, the therapeutic magic of solo car rides, and the mess, beauty, and excitement of starting a new class.
What’s a skill or hobby you’ve been itching to try lately?
About Studio Art 101 At Studio Art 101, we believe that every handmade piece tells a story. From our hands to your home, we focus on the beauty of "slow craft"—creating intentional, whimsical items that bring joy to the everyday. Based in Maryland, we are dedicated to building a community of makers and dreamers. Join us on our journey of creativity, sign up here, follow along on FB, IG or Tik Tok, or explore our latest collection in the shop.