The Habit of Learning from the Creative Process
We're all familiar with how uncomfortable it can be to watch someone else work. The temptation is to judge from afar, maybe offer advice or prematurely offer critique, but what most people don't realize is that the creative process doesn't always unfold like a well-edited show on Netflix.
The truth about creativity is that it's messy and sometimes incomprehensible. There are plenty of methods out there for spurring creativity, but many of them assume a certain level of mastery in place before starting them.
When I'm approached to help a team members become more creative, it's not about the method, but rather about the mindset. I think that creativity is best learned by doing and implementing, rather than reading about it.
But before we can start creating, we need to learn how to observe.
Observe the process of creation from afar and with intent.
What are you working on?
Where did this idea come from?
Why are you pursuing this particular project?
This is the time to be curious and explore your work without judgement or expectation. Let yourself get lost in the work or let it sit for a day so that you can return with fresh eyes. In fact, take notes on what sparked you into action. What was happening? Was there a particular event that caused you to think about your work in a new way?
Despite your best intentions, at some point you will lose control of the original vision for your work. It is absolutely fallacious to believe that we choose our work. Our work chooses us. And because of this, we need to give up on the idea of perfection in our art. True artists know that every project is a constantly evolving process with it's own trajectory and voice.
If you feel stuck or overwhelmed by the direction of a project, then set it aside for a time and return with fresh eyes and a blank mind. If the problem isn't obvious, then try writing about it or drawing pictures.
I'm not suggesting that every part of the creative process has to be haphazard. Although it's easy to romanticize this notion, some discipline is necessary. In fact, I would argue that the discipline is one of the most important parts of the process. In order to create anything, you have to set aside a portion of time for your practice and stick with it.
Circumstances change over time and there will inevitably be times when you don't feel like doing work, or when something else seems more pressing. It's at these moments that we must remember our vision for the work and make a decision to continue or start over with a new idea.
I've recently created a habit for myself where I write down 3 ideas every single day. This practice helps me to be aware of thoughts and to focus them on the page. In turn, this has helped me to recognize and understand my creative process.
By adopting a similar practice you will be able to contemplate your path as an artist and gain a measure of control over your work.
Hopefully these ideas have resonated with you in some way, but if nothing else, I hope that they encourage you to actively participate in your own process and not wait for something else to happen or someone else's approval to give you permission. Begin today. Begin now. And begin writing.
I'd love to hear what you think... what has worked for you and what hasn't? Leave a comment below!
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An excerpt from my book, "How to Make Beautiful Art" (2016, BookBaby). The full version can be purchased on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/How-Make-Beautiful-Art/dp/0989625665
Oh, and if you're interested in more, I've written two other books: "The Art of Connection" (2015) and "The Habit of Learning" (2016). Find out more here: www.rebirtharts.com
You can also sign up for my mailing list to get a notice when new work is released! If you're not interested in the mindless marketing emails that most artist's use, then feel free to connect with me directly on the following platforms: Website: https://www.rebirtharts.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebirtharts1 Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnpolson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnpolson LinkedIn (Creative and Strategy): https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpolson
I wish you all the best!
John Polson - Studio Mates Writer, Creative, Visionary
If you're looking to become a studio mate, come join me! I'm looking for a few good links to share with up and coming artists in hopes that we can grow together in this industry!! You can find my portfolio at www.rebirtharts.com/john-polson Thank you!
If you're looking for a helpful, creative, talented and fun team to join at Rebirth Arts, look no further. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebirthartswriter
Website: www.rebirtharts.com (click on above link)
Email: rebirtharts@gmail.com
Twitter: @rebirtharts1
Instagram: @rebirtharts1
LinkedIn (Creative and Strategy): https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpolson
If you're looking to become a studio mate, come join me! I'm looking for a few good links to share with up and coming artists in hopes that we can grow together in this industry!! You can find my portfolio at www.rebirtharts.com/john-polson Thank you!
If you're looking for a helpful, creative, talented and fun team to join at Rebirth Arts, look no further. You can find my portfolio at www.rebirtharts.com/john-polson Thank you! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebirthartswriter Website: http://rebirtharts.com (click on above link) Email: rebirtharts@gmail.com Twitter: @rebirtharts1 Instagram: @rebirtharts1 Linkedin (Creative and Strategy): https://www.linkedin.
Conclusion
In this article we discussed a way to create art in a way not often seen in art-school. We talked about the importance of planning, self-motivation and open communication. I think the most important points were: 1.) The joy of putting pen to paper or brush to canvas, 2.) the importance of patience and perseverance, and 3.) that lesson learned from my ex - always ask for advice when you need it.
If you'd like to plan an actual workshop, write me at rebirtharts@gmail.com and let me know how many people you expect. If I cannot do it, I will find someone who can or we will set up something on Skype or via Google Hangouts.