When I was a lonely, insecure 12-year-old, God gave me the ability to draw and paint. Long believing His gifts are to be shared, I accepted George’s invitation to teach art to 11 young people, ages 14 to 28, who’d grown up as orphans.
What a wonderful opportunity to share with those I thought might also be lonely and insecure.
Photos of my future students’ artwork showed ability and experience. My goal wasn’t to remake them into American artists or to produce masterpieces in only four days, although the results were impressive. I wanted to teach techniques to expand my students’ artistic vocabulary, recognize the unique artistry of each, and encourage them to use their gifts to bless others and to glorify God.
Truthfully, I wasn’t prepared for the lack of responsiveness from these wounded, fragile young people. Two days into the class, I was extremely discouraged. But the Orphan’s Tree team prayed with and for me. The rest of the week I experienced remarkable change. The students became more responsive, open to suggestions and they worked harder. And at week’s end, each was honored by having a framed watercolor displayed at the Vladimir Cultural Center. But that’s not all.
My artists, sponsors, and I trained to St. Petersburg for two days of experiencing the opulence of Catherine’s Palace, touring the Hermitage, and sharing a sightseeing boat ride on the Neva River. Paid for by Orphan’s Tree, it was a life-changing experience for all.
Would I do it again? Absolutely!