Joanne Robinson – from armed forces to art classes

Creativity Found: finding creativity later in life

Growing up, Joanne Robinson was creatively encouraged in primary school and loved to draw for hours at home. However, her passion for art was dampened when she entered secondary school and was told by an art teacher that she wasn't very good. This negative feedback led Joanne to believe that she didn't have a talent for art, and she abandoned her artistic pursuits.
Joanne joined the Royal Air Force and years later, while recuperating with a broken back, learned to paint and rediscovered her love for art.
Joanne learnt that drawing and painting can be taught, and the importance of practice. Just like musicians are encouraged to practice regularly to improve their craft, artists also need to dedicate time and effort to honing their skills.
Joanne's initial motivation to start The Little Art School stemmed from her own experience of how drawing and painting changed her life. She wanted to provide the same opportunity for others who may have doubted their abilities. By offering structured classes for both children and adults, Joanne and her business partner Melissa created a space where individuals could learn and grow at their own pace.
The Little Art School at creativityfound.co.uk
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Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown
Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips
Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk
Photo: Ella Pallet

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Chapters

1. Joanne Robinson – from armed forces to art classes (00:00:00)

2. Creative Encouragement and School Experiences (00:04:55)

3. The Importance of Practice in Art (00:06:25)

4. Art as Muscle Memory (00:08:21)

5. Joanne's Academic and Career Path (00:10:03)

6. Transition from the Air Force to Art (00:11:34)

7. Professional Shift to Art and Journalism (00:14:38)

8. The Little Art School: Origins and Growth (00:16:56)

9. Selling Art and Valuing Creativity (00:20:16)

10. Expansion of Adult Art Programs (00:26:39)

11. The Importance of Creativity in Education and Society (00:33:50)

12. Closing Thoughts and Contact Information (00:42:06)