Drawing as an instrument of professional excellence in visual arts: Problems and prospects

Abstract

The drawing aspect of art programmes in many institutions of higher learning nationwide remains an area of academic phobia for some students. It seems to threaten students confidence and wears off their Grade Point Average GPA build-up. Several rounds of conversational engagements with some students leave a palpable evidence of loathsomeness towards drawing classes. Many of these students, in their more sober moments, confide in their peers, or less often, in their ‘senior friends’ who are the lecturers. This paper looks into the above scenario and tries to locate the foundational reasons for this fear, and in that rubble, find the remote and immediate causes. It also tries to provide a string of formulae possibilities which, hopefully, will lead the affected students into freedom. It is hoped that this paper will provide a basis for an all-round solution to drawing problems, whether created by students, parents or the teachers themselves. A diligent consideration of the issues raised here is suggested for all drawing stakeholders.