English and Art at Smith’s Sagamihara

English and art at Smith’s Sagamihara is nothing new. Tama Art University is nearby and it seems that I always have at least one English student from that school. Most of my students here at Smith’s School of English, Sagamihara are, of course, Japanese. But, over the years, I have enjoyed coaching some Chinese, Peruvians, Japanese-Brazilians, and Koreans here in Japan. “Ine” is from Korea and has been with me for a few years now. She of course speaks Korean, is fluent in Japanese, and is well on her way to becoming fluent in English. Ine is also a talented artist. I really enjoy her classes.

English and Art in Class

She sketches whatever comes to her mind at the moment. One day we spent an entire English lesson talking about her artwork. She explained the meaning of her drawings and what she was thinking at the time. Her explanations were interesting and well-spoken. Many of her drawings are about emotion. This one is not too hard to figure out.

Recently she drew one based on her dog (and best friend). She was feeling a bit “down” and went for a walk together in Fuchinobe Park in Sagamihara. In her mind she kept saying “I’m happy, I’m happy” while spending time with her dog. Ine said to me- “and during the walk, I became happy!” So she went home and produced this. See the resemblance?

As a student, she is well-focused and determined to learn the English language. In fact, she has the best pronunciation at Smith’s Sagamihara. She does it all on her own by listening and repeating with various apps on the internet and watching programs on Netflix. She has gone from beginner to high intermediate level in less than 2 years. Ine is able to carry on lengthy conversations now. I love watching this happen!

Ine’s Art and English Here at Sagamihara are Special to Me

About a year ago, I told her that practicing the trombone was becoming more difficult for me as I get older. I’m happy to still be doing this, but not so happy with the decline over the years. Then she attended one of my performances with the Zama City Jazz Orchestra. Afterwards, she drew this sketch for me. “Jim you are reaching people with your music. Don’t give up.” What a nice thing to do and say to me…

Who wouldn’t be happy with a student and friend like this? Thank you Ine. I know you will never give up too! I look forward to more conversation about English and art at Smith’s Sagamihara with Ine!

(Speaking of artists and English, we also have an artist amongst our Smith’s owners. His name is Tom and his artwork is very unique; created with dots. His blog here about new years resolutions features one of his works. It’s quite impressive.)

Thank you for reading!

Jim

Smith’s School of English, Sagamihara