In Their Own Way
The part of the brain that thrives on worksheets and teacher lectures probably takes up less than one percent of the total available for learning. ~ Thomas Armstrong, Ph.D.
Education Designed for Your Child
The world our children will function in as adults is a world we have never seen before — from where they will live and how they will communicate to the business model they will utilize. And in this new world, the most highly valued skills will be creativity and uniqueness — both entrepreneurial and interpersonal.
What type of education has the power to create these skills in children?
Customized education.
Greg Olsen
The art of Greg Olsen illuminates the soul and spirit of its subjects and uplifts the hearts and minds of its viewers. Olsen’s diverse interests are deftly demonstrated in oil paintings that range from the realistic and historical to the whimsical. His luminous, delicate portraits capture not only his subjects’ likeness, but their spirit as well. Landscapes of scenes from America and the world over reflect the perfect beauty of the mind’s eye.
As a child, Olsen often relied on his imagination for entertainment- as an adult, his imagination entertains us with paintings that depict the best and brightest memories of childhood.
Born in 1958, Olsen was raised in a farming community in rural Idaho. His parents, artists themselves, recognized and encouraged his early love of drawing. Later, the devoted tutelage of a high school teacher cemented his affinity and enhanced his technical ability. After studying illustration at Utah State University, he was hired as an in-house illustrator in Salt Lake City, working on anything from murals and dioramas to simple paste-up. Two years later, he followed a friend’s advice and began painting full time. Sales from his first show only just covered the cost of refreshments and invitations, but yielded the first of many commissions that were to come.
His Biblical paintings, represented in religious temples in more than 20 countries around the world, and his work for the Pentagon and the National Collegiate Athletic Association required intensive research and strict attention to factual detail. While these historical paintings satisfy his desire to render works with a sense of permanence, his whimsical paintings afford him the freedom to transfer his imagination to canvas. When Olsen paints a tree house, he paints it the way the children climbing it imagine it to be- the simple boards and nails of reality become elaborate, majestic castles in the sky.
Olsen’s paintings are included in many corporate collections, including Mobil Corporation, Turner Broadcasting System, Westin Hotels, World Explorer Cruises and the American Cancer Society, as well as the Pentagon, the U.S. Forest Service and the State of Idaho. His works have been exhibited in prominent art galleries throughout the West and major one-man shows.
Olsen’s philosophy on art is quite simple. ‘For me, I just always appreciated the beauty of art and the way it made me feel,’ he says. ‘Art’s greatest purpose is just to make us happy. I take a lot of pleasure in painting and hope that pleasure is contagious to those who look at my art.’
From the Greg Olsen Gallery web page.
Copyright 1999-2001 Greg Olsen Gallery.
You may find the artwork that goes with the descriptions (below) in the right sidebar.
Imagination: The Final Frontier
Imagination shrinks me till I am very small, And buildings made of Lincoln Logs now seem so awfully tall. Every nook and cranny a place to now explore, The world looks awfully different when you’re only inches from the floor. Then later when I get tired of that little point of view, I imagine that I am big again–big like me and you. No longer is my world a place where I must crawl, Now my imagined cares and troubles are not so big at all.
A Light to the Gentiles
The promise of a Savior was fulfilled by our Heavenly Father in Christ, who is the Light of the World.
Castles in the Sky
Like boys who build their castles from little blocks of wood, And imagine that they are king today of all that’s great and good; We men build our own walls, perhaps of granite stone, And proudly sit within those walls upon our self-made throne. Foolishly we climb our highest tower and look across the land, to see if someone else’s castle upon a higher hill might stand. Then gazing at the flying clouds and sinking sun of day, A memory stirs from deep inside of castles far away; Splendid ones with spires of light and towering walls of gold, with stairs that we have climbed and streets that we have strolled. More glorious than tongue can speak are the sights of a scene thus filled, But the heart cries a familiar, YES!–These castles are real! Tho’ here our home may be palatial, each courtyard with fountained pond, Yet all are but scanty similes of these castles far beyond. And so our mortal homes, be they quaint or be they grand, It matters not at all, for none of these will stand. Granite stone like wooden blocks will tumble down someday, And off we’ll fly into the clouds and there in a castle stay!
Hook, Line and Summer
Many a boy has played out this timeless ritual of summer. Like a page out of “Tom Sawyer” or “Huckleberry Finn” these chapters in a boy’s life are filled with adventure, exploration and sometimes the freedom to do nothing but relax alongside a shaded stream and fish. Perhaps the pleasure of those memories suggests that they were days not wasted!
Winter Quarters
The indomitable human spirit is exemplified by the early pioneers of the American frontier, who, in times of great adversity, turned suffering and hardship into opportunities for growth and experience. Many who have gone before us have demonstrated that our inner happiness has little to do with our outer circumstances. The external conditions weathered by these pioneers were often harsh, and winter’s severity forced them to take refuge in temporary settlements referred to by trappers and explorers as “winter quarters.” Here, in January 1847 near present day Omaha, Nebraska, Mormon pioneer families crossing the land in ox-drawn wagons containing all they owned found a respite from the journey and all the hardships endured along the way. Yet even within the confines of shelter, tragedy was no stranger. When disease struck, it took a heavy toll, and hundreds would succumb, weakened by inadequate provisions and fatigue. Parents, who had already sacrificed so much, buried their beloved children. Those who were able cared for those who were ill. The fact that these brave pioneers persevered, despite their struggles, suffering, adversity strengthened their resolve and deepened their communal spirit. Fortunately, this austere existence did not crowd out of life the joy of living. Laughter, merriment, playfulness, the lively strains of the violin, and the dancing party were still observed. Music and song nowhere and at no time better served their purpose of cheering the hearts of men than in these wilderness encampments.
Sacred Grove
The shady cathedral of the woods has long offered a retreat to the soul seeking communion with nature and her Creator. The trees rise like mighty spires, lifting our gaze and our thoughts heavenward. Layers of leaves are illuminated like stained glass windows as the morning sun filters through them. The delicate notes of songbirds float like a hymn upon the still air. Rays of light stream down from the windows of heaven, warming the forest floor below. They rest upon one’s being and take away the chill of darker hours. It is in quiet places and in simple ways that heaven’s veil is parted for those who knock upon its door…such was the case with a 14-year-old boy named Joseph Smith who went into a grove of trees to pray. The young man knocked, and the Father and His Beloved Son simply answered.
Awesome Wonder
As the Savior of the world, Christ’s relationship to the earth remains unique. In some incredible and awesome way He is the life force of all creation. The title “Awesome Wonder” refers to the Lord’s expression of amazement and satisfaction while surveying the beauties of the earth. Perhaps Nature herself experiences “awesome wonder” as she looks upon the Savior. The elements joyfully obey His will and every form of life recognizes the benevolent Prince of Peace. The trees reverently envelop Him, the stream plays its soothing melody for Him while the clouds thunder their impressive salute. The words of the familiar hymn come to mind, “How great thou art!”
Children of the World
As the Good Shepherd, Christ proclaimed, “…other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd” (John 10:16). As the Savior of the world, Christ will gather all nations, and He will dwell in the midst of them. (Joel 3:2; Zechariah 2:11; John 11:52). At the dawn of a new millennium, we look forward to that wonderful day. The invitation to come unto Him is still extended to all the world. The scriptural admonition to become as a little child and to “walk as children of light” is meant to help us to prepare for that joyful time. (Matthew 18:3; Ephesians 5:8). Christ Himself came into this world as an innocent child, and children are especially beloved by our Lord. In Children of the World, we see the purity, innocence, and love that will prevail in a new era of peace and happiness, when the Good Shepherd returns to gather us together and dwell in our midst.
Forgiven
The prophet Isaiah gave hope and comfort to all who have stumbled and made mistakes when he revealed these words from the Lord: “…Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as now; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18) With a broken heart and contrite spirit, we can receive forgiveness and learn from our mistakes. Part of what we may learn in the process is that happiness comes not only from receiving forgiveness, but also from extending it!”
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings…” (Matt. 23:37). This is a Messianic exclamation of profound concern and unconditional love for all who have lost their way and suffer while wandering in spiritual darkness. As the slanting rays of the sun reflect upon the rooftops of Old Jerusalem, Christ reflects upon His life’s mission and upon those He came to serve and bless. His gaze takes in the glistening gold and marble of Herod’s Temple and the smoke of burnt offerings upon the altar. He is keenly aware that soon He will offer Himself up as the true Passover Lamb–the Lamb of God. Here, upon the Mount of Olives, Jesus can see the day, like His mortal ministry, coming to a close. However, a new day always dawns, and there is hope and comfort in His words, “lo, I am with you alway” (Matt. 28:20). Just as He looked down upon the traveling pilgrims entering Jerusalem, He watches still from yet a higher vantage point, ready to extend His protective wing to all who seek Him.
Enter a wonderland where twinkling lights shine on an array of symbols of the season. From attic hideaways come holiday treasures to cast their spell over the young at heart. The boxes and bows, tinsel and trim, wrap you in a warm, cozy spirit. The ribbons and reindeer, the soldiers and trains turn your mind back to the storefront windows, and you can almost imagine your nose pressed against the cold, frosty glass. Reminders of Santa and sleigh rides, falling snow and shining stars, bring back the excitement of a sleepless December night. Nuzzle a fuzzy teddy bear and hear the sound of a jingling bell or a glistening golden horn. Put yourself into the miniature world of a Dickens village and stroll the winter streets with the shoppers and carolers about. Toylike angel dolls and little snare drums are found beneath the fragrant evergreen. The wafting scent of pine boughs carries you to a magical place called Christmas. All these things form the accessories of the season, the decorations that lift and cheer us, but they only reflect the light of that which shines most brightly, a humble couple and a tiny babe, lying in a manger–the true meaning of Christmas–the reason for the season!
Often, there are times in life when we go through difficult periods, times when we feel as though we’re wandering in the wilderness-seeking direction, solace, and answers. And often, during those trying times, if we allow ourselves, it is as though we receive a subtle signal in the form of some small wonder. It may be something as simple as turning on the radio and at that very moment, hearing the lyrics of just the right song, or opening the scriptures to a verse with poignant meaning, or even having a little songbird land nearby to cheer us up. These are some of the small things that have helped me along at such times, causing me to look heavenward, smile, and say a quiet, “Thank You!” During a time in my life in which I had an important decision to make, I was trying to sort out my thoughts while hiking. As I looked out over the horizon, I noticed that the billowing clouds remembled a figure that seemed to me to point the way that I should choose. And while I know they were only clouds, like an angelic messenger sent to one needing help along the way, they were just as beneficial as all the other small wonders that I’ve experienced when I needed them most. “Bless the Lord, O my soul…who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind: who maketh his angels spirits…” (Psalms 104:1, 3-4).
The Baptism
Walk With Me
“Walk with me,” I heard him say, “Walk with me awhile today.” “Talk with me,” I heard him speak, “Talk with me of the things you think.” Share with me the things you feel, Share with me so you can heal. Cry with me through your heartbreaks, Cry with me when your soul aches. Look with me a new sunrise! Look with me through opened eyes. See with me the world anew, See with me my point of view. Laugh with me in pure delight, Laugh with me it’s all alright! Sing with me as we stroll along, Sing with me I love your song. Learn with me your wondrous story, Learn with me your prior glory. Know with me just who you are, Know with me we’ve traveled far. Create with me and dreams come true, Create with me I create through you! Walk with me on Heaven’s shore, Walk with me forever more!
His Example
A careful man I want to be.
A little fellow follows me.
I do not dare go astray,
For fear he’ll go the self same way.
I cannot once escape his eyes,
Whate’er he sees me do he tries.
Like me he says he’s going to be,
The little chap who follows me.
He thinks that I am good and fine.
Believes in every word of mine.
The base in me he must not see,
The little chap who follows me.
I must remember as I go,
Through summer’s sun and winter’s snow,
I’m building for the year to be,
The little chap who follows me.
~ Unknown
Schools Can’t Do It
Bureaucrats, textbook publishers, and other education companies have large stakes in our current school system. The massive changes that would be required of schools to enable them to provide customized education to each and every child are enormous. The chances of it happening in our lifetime are small.
Will it happen?
Only time will tell.
Are you willing to wait?
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