Eli the Artist

When I was growing up, I hated art because I thought the important part was producing a beautiful finished product, and that wasn't something I was very good at. Since becoming a parent, I've discovered the philosophy of art as "the process not the product." In other words, it doesn't matter what your end product looks like, the fun is in making art - trying out different mediums, using different materials, letting your creative juices flow without regard to whether or not it "looks good."

I still don't think I'd like to create art in a grown-up setting, but I absolutely love doing art projects with my kids. I've tried to supply them with every art supply their little hearts could desire and to store the supplies in an accessible location so they can create to their heart's content. When Cole and Eli were younger, I only bought permanent markers (not washable) because they work better, but that meant they walked around half the time with permanent marker splotches all over their face. Secretly, I loved that.

I think my kids probably started off with some natural artistic talent with their Grammy and Uncle Josh being excellent artists and Michael and me not sucking too bad at it. But they also draw a lot. I can't tell you how many times people have asked me, "Did Cole (or Eli) draw that all by himself?"

I always thought Cole was an extremely talented little artist, but lately Eli has been blowing me away.

Here he's working on a snowman craft for Joy School. One of his favorite themes is drawing "snowman bands," so in this picture, the snowman is playing the drums.



When he finished, he asked if he could flip the paper over and draw some more on the back.


Continuing the snowman band theme, he added an upright bass and a harp.

I know I'm their mom, but still...I have some talented little boys!