Artist P. Buckley Moss visited with art students at Virginia High School.
BRISTOL, VA - While in town for the unveiling of her artwork for Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, acclaimed artist P. Buckley Moss visited with advanced art students at Virginia High School.
Upon entry, Moss was immediately struck by the display of artwork adorning the hallways. "This is good work," she commented. "These kids are learning stuff I didn't study until I was in college. They've got a good teacher."
Pursuing and furthering education was one of the points Moss stressed the most with the class, along with the importance of doodling and being an original.
A few of Moss's own "doodles" decorated a couple of students' papers, which she graciously signed.
"There ya go, kid," she said to one student, "that'll get you a couple hundred dollars." Joking aside, many of Moss' originals go for thousands.
"Make it your own," she advised, as she sketched one of her signature black cats. "When you see this cat, you know it is my design. Put yourself in your work."
"A lot of people ask me why I can't always finish something, I have to move on to something else," she continued. "When you have an idea, whether it's a song or a poem, you have to get it out right then. If you wait, the moment is gone forever and you never get it back."
While discussing her travels, one of the students asked what her favorite place in the world might be.
"My studio!" she declared passionately. "I work very hard, but I love it. Make sure when you start working that it's something you love to do, 'cause you'll be doing it for most of your life."
Despite her academic struggles with dyslexia, Moss is living proof that success can be gained through hard work and perseverance.
