For many the pursuit of knowledge ends with graduation from school. In our current post-literate, anti-intellectual era, these individuals form the majority. They shun higher education and avoid classrooms, yet they continue to learn without realizing it.

Learning beyond school

Formal education may end, but learning never stops. I only realized in college that no matter what one’s interests are, there exists a support industry with a deep knowledge base. During my cinematography studies I delved into Orson Welles’ films and attended film festivals to see more. In physics, we created holograms, and I later explored the Hologram Museum. I learned Adobe Photoshop 1.0 in a workshop in Santa Fe, and attended Superbike School to qualify for my motorcycle racer's license. As a photography student, guest lectures by professionals enhanced my classroom learning.

These talks offered diverse perspectives, and even the bad ones provided insights into what not to do. I chose to attend these lectures, which broadened my knowledge and made me a more well-rounded student.

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Becoming the expert

After graduation something happened: I got my degree, then I was invited back to the college where I’d been a student to present a talk, now as the expert. Like Darth Vader told Obi-Wan during that fateful light-saber duel on the Death Star, “I was once the learner, now I am the master.” (You read that in Vader’s voice, didn’t you?)

Many learning opportunities are free or low-cost, as knowledge should be. Lectures, talks and panel discussions at libraries, galleries, theatres, colleges and museums are often done for no charge at all. They’re not heavily advertised, so they usually don’t pull in large crowds. They’re accessible. They’re informal, with robust Q&A sessions, offering opportunities to meet the speaker and like-minded people. Compared to expensive sporting events or concerts, learning is economical.

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Personal growth and free learning

Over the years I’ve attended free talks on archaeology, mural-making, cryptozoology, paranormal functioning, remote-viewing, artificial intelligence, and more. I’ve attended more free artist’s talks in galleries than I can count, and I find them more entertaining than costly sports events.

As a professional photographer my job requires learning about my subjects. Extensive research for my projects has often equated to PhD-level understanding. My career has taught me about diverse topics, leading to speaking engagements on archaeology, rock art, cryptozoology, UFOs, ghost-hunting, and many art and photography subjects.

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The surrealism panel

In June and July the Yavapai College Art Gallery hosted a Southwestern Surrealism art exhibition. Like many college and university exhibitions, this one included an educational opportunity in the form of a free-to-the-public panel discussion about Surrealism. I was part of the panel discussion, along with Dr. Brandelyn Andres, Professor of Art History, Bryan Robertson, artist and chair of the Yavapai College Visual Art Department and Tim Hull, Director of the Yavapai College Art Gallery. Panel discussions relieve the burden of solo talks and provide diverse viewpoints.

I always prepare thoroughly for talks because I respect the audience’s intellect — after all, they made an effort to attend, and that’s something. On July 17 we had a lively discussion in the gallery with about two dozen in the audience. Our diverse viewpoints led to engaging debates, leaving the audience with multiple perspectives. Post-discussion, we mingled with the audience, sharing more insights in an informal setting.

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Learn more

Interesting talks, lectures, and meetings are happening daily. Check social media for events at libraries, galleries, colleges, and other venues. Experts are eager to share their knowledge and experiences. Online learning is not vetted; in-person talks offer direct interaction and a sense of community. Postschool, nontraditional education provides for lifelong learning, a diverse learning experience, personal growth and community involvement.

Instead of expensive entertainment, consider attending a talk or lecture. You might learn something new, and it certainly won’t be a waste of money.