5 ESSENTIALS FOR CREATIVITY
Lots of concept sketches happening as I work out rough ideas and poses for each of the 10 paintings that I will be creating for A ROOMFUL OF GHOSTS. Trying all kinds of things in my quest for the exact visual expression that I want. © 2018 David Limrite
“Art is evidence. Evidence of breathing in and breathing out; proof of human majesty.”
Squeak Carnwath, Artist
5 Essentials For Creativity
In the fervor of creativity and flurry of activity that is happening as I buzz, spin, and whirl about my studio, preparing for A ROOMFUL OF GHOSTS, my residency/exhibit at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (October 5-December 2), I have made yet another realization when it comes to creativity.
When it comes to making art, at least for me, there seems to be 5 essentials for this game we call creativity.
Here they are (according to me):
1. MARK MAKING. No matter what kind of artist you are and what medium you use, you are going to be involved in making marks of some kind, Please don’t take these marks for granted. They are your personal signature. The marks you make are important and essential to the success of your creation. The collection of marks that you make add up to the thing that you are depicting. However, the marks should be just as important as what they add up to.
2. DECISION MAKING. Everything involved with creativity involves making decisions. From surface, to medium, to size, to subject matter. Every mark you make is a choice that you get to make. What to leave in and what to take out. When is it finished. Please do not shy away from making decisions. Get used to making choices. Every piece that you make requires hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions.
3. RISK TAKING. It’s simple. If you want to be a better artist and make better art, you have got to take risks. Constantly be trying new things. Push yourself beyond what you think you can do. There are no limits as to what your chosen medium is capable of. So, go for it. Every time you are in your studio or at your easel, ask “What if?” Taking risks is the only way to take your creativity to the next level, (whatever that is for you).
4. MISTAKE MAKING. If you take risks, you are going to make mistakes. Lots of ‘em. In reality, a mistake is just something that happened that you were not expecting. Mistakes are opportunities. Mistakes let you know that you are on the right path and getting closer to what you want. Welcome mistakes with open arms. Take risks and make lots of mistakes. And then take more risks.
5. LEARNING. Learning is a by-product of numbers 1-4 above. If you are actively involved in creativity, you are going to learn. You just won’t be able to help it. Learning is one of the perks of being an artist. So, always be learning. Look for learning opportunities at every turn. Be a life-long learner.
Let me know what you think of this list of creativity essentials. Do you have a favorite? Is one more difficult for you than the others?
Best,
David
