First Week of Art School is like Hollywood Week on Idol.

It bothers me that I'm technically a functional adult yet engrossed with Hollywood Week on American Idol. I finally figured out why:

Hollywood week brings back memories of the first week of art school.

If you're going to art school, you were probably one of the best students at your high school. You think you're hot shit. Suddenly you're with students worldwide who were the best at their school. Some of them actually ARE hot shit. Reality hits hard if you're a pretender. Nothing like looking at a bunch of talented students wondering if they think you suck.

In my case, I thought I was good but scared. Being from a small school in Oklahoma makes you aware there is a lot in this world you don't know. The first day of figure drawing was a disaster. As the model undressed, other students started sketching like they've done this for years. Not having life drawing experience, I stared blankly at the page with a pencil frozen in my hand. The teacher finally came over, took my pencil and started drawing the figure for me.

Embarrassing.

The first project submitted for critique is similar to the first time the Idol kids sing on the big stage. It is time to show what you bring, see if you can handle the pressure, and your first critique from the instructor. Students pin work on a wall for everyone to see. The stress is insane. I remember my reaction upon seeing the work.

Relief.

There were two or three students who were scary good, but four or five students who should have never majored in art. The reactions of students realizing where they stood spanned the gamut of emotions. It looked like I would survive if I worked hard.

That's why Hollywood Week appeals to me.

It reminds me of a scary yet exhilarating time.