Any art teachers about?

[VivaLeBeaver]

I'm just after some opinions about whether or not my Yr 9 dd has any talent. Her art teacher says she's very good and would get a B at gcse. I see stuff she draws and paints and I'm not so convinced. I've looked online at gcse portfolio stuff and it seems so much better.....but guess that might be 18 months further on.

I'll attach a painting she's done here....I know it's only one painting but Id welcome any opinions. Her art teacher has a reputation for gushing about how brilliant kids are even when they're perhaps not so good according to other parents.

Dd also reckons the art teacher doesn't give them any actual teaching on technique. Are there any good text books which might be beneficial?

I'd also have a look at evening classes too.

I'd say my DS1 has talent in that he can draw and has been guided rather than taught and can produce very detailed intricate drawings that look like what they are supposed to be - he also has a good eye for colour and detail. Is he an artist? I'd say no. The reason i say that is not because he can't draw or produce something competent and of a good standard, it's because he lacks flair and confidence to produce unique ideas and expressions. That may come with experience and support. However, can he have a career in a related subject? most definitely! As the areas he is interested in require that attention to detail and precision and interest in computers etc. I did support him in his decision to prioritise art over graph comm though as this is his opportunity to grow and develop something he enjoys that might help his confidence etc Everyone is aware that he can do graph comm and will get a decent exam pass in it. We know he'll go back to that but would he return to pure Art after having a break? probably not.

I'd say that the technical skills are easier to learn than the flair and imagination so the OPs daughter may be a better artist than some of her peers who are producing more competent work at the moment - who knows. :)