The Essence of Practical Skills in the Age of Digitalization: A Reflection on Hard Work and Artistic Training

Jul 14

2 min read

In today's fast-paced digital age, working smart has become the mantra for many. However, for artists, developing hands-on skills through active and consistent exercises remains invaluable. This blog explores the importance of practical skills, drawing on a memorable project from 2018 at Boso Senior High Technical School.

As part of our training program with the class of 2021, we chose to decorate an entire room with individually painted 2-dimensional bubbles instead of using wallpaper. This decision aimed to:

Improve brush stroke precision
Enhance measurement accuracy
Develop visualization skills
Refine color mixing techniques
Psychologically prepare students for the comprehensive experience of Picture Making (Painting)

The Discipline of Hard Skills

The project, which took us two days to complete, transformed the room into a vibrant and skill-enriching environment. This exercise not only improved their technical skills but also instilled a sense of accomplishment and artistic pride.

During our school days, both in senior high school and university, extra credits or points were awarded for intricate designs achieved through meticulous and consistent procedures. We often felt like we were being punished, but these activities developed vital hard skills. Constructing and painting lettering styles with precision, over and over again, laid a strong foundation for our artistic careers.

Balancing Hard Work and Smart Work

This is not to undermine the importance of working smart and the convenience it brings, but the benefits of these hands-on skills are essential for trainees. The students who participated in this exercise (Isaac Vierrah, Emmanuel Awaitey, Emmanuel Lomoko Joseph Safori & Enoch Yirenkyi) grew to become very good artists, showcasing the long-term value of such practical training. Here are book cover designs hand-painted by my students during their final practical examination in Graphic Design.

Conclusion

Balancing practical skills with smart techniques is key. By integrating both approaches, artists can achieve a comprehensive skill set that enhances their creativity and efficiency.

For those interested in exploring more about the integration of traditional and modern techniques in art, or to discuss potential collaborations, feel free to reach out. Let’s continue to celebrate the timeless skills that define and enrich our artistic journeys.