Part 2: What are the Qualities of an Aspiring Architect?

To the question, what are the qualities of an aspiring architect, one might answer, mathematical finesse, while others might suggest geometrical passions. The gift of playing with blocks, Legos or puzzles or understanding the world in multiple dimensions. I agree, but my experiences suggest that one of the most qualifying qualities of a budding architect is the oxymoron of being blessed with the ability to multitask while maintaining focus on the purpose of their challenge. Most architects are wired to learn to solve a problem.

How to recognize these kids?

1. Many children gifted in the design and architectural arena have an incredible ability to bring it all together — multitask, while pushing the limits.

2. Many successful designers are the ones that are most often in the principal’s office. Typically, they are the ones breaking the rules because they found a better or easier way.

3. Often, these kids have the nature to push and to commit to their quest, for better or for worse.

4. They have a hard time sitting still, are always exploring, playing with things in their hands and their minds never seem to rest. Their creative genius is so high that boredom sets in quickly. They know that they get the work done in half the time, sometimes without enough care to make it correct, but with the intent to get to what matters most.

5. You might notice these children persist while trying to solve the challenge that they created for themselves. This artist type will not give up. They will push and push and push for more time to find the perfect solution, which is why we must give them deadlines and requirements along with their challenges.

6. These creators have a zest for life that is, to be honest, exhausting. More often than not, their minds occupy an architectural plane of their own; leaving the rest wondering what is going on “up there.”

What to do with these kids?

• Embrace their creative curiosity.

• Give them a purpose for what they are doing.

• Support their attempts.

• Create challenges for them.

• Encourage them to try, fail, find a better solution and try again.

• Teach them to communicate their creative conclusions on paper and in the spoken word.

Project-based learning builds on the concept that people need a purpose. We are created to fill needs; artists find their purpose when given the freedom to use their talents to solve a problem.

If not challenged, the traits of an aspirating artist or architect can be overwhelming. Challenge your busy minded and fidgety student, and enjoy their creativity.

Here is to all those artistic geniuses in the principal’s office — you brighten our world!

In case you don’t know me, my name is Mrs. G.. I founded Building Brilliant Minds Online in 2009. I have authored several courses in Architecture, Biblical Fine Arts, Photography and Dance. www.buildingbrilliantmindsonline.com. My beginning courses may also be accessed for FREE with a www.schoolhouseteachers.com membership.