Elizabeth Gilbert talks about creativity
I found this talk very insightful. It goes for about 20 minutes so you’ll need some time, but she has a really forgiving perspective on being creative. Despite starting in somewhat dark territory she uses that to flesh out her point.
She talks about all these great expectations people have of creatives, that in turn can burden the artist/writer/musician/dancer/whatever. If you’re in the creative industry yourself, or are simply afraid of dabbling in some creative field for fear of failure then it’s quite a refreshing talk.
My biggest personal hurdle for turning this into a sketch blog was exactly what she’s addressing. Not everything I make is awesome, or turns out how I want, but that’s reality. I think there’s some value in the transparency my blog provides, maybe it’ll entice people to let go of their reservations and do the same. Plus it’s good motivation to keep doing a little painting on the side each day, which keeps me experimenting with things I can potentially encorporate into my real work.
That was a real nice talk. I don’t necessarily agree with the part about creatures lurking in the walls, but I think the idea has come from a real concern for the wellbeing of creative folk.
And it is hard to come to terms with the fact that not everything we make is awesome. I think there’s something to be said about the idea of accepting transient creative success as it comes.
Hah yes, I don’t believe in demons, angels, genies or whatever else but I like the concept of delegating responsibility to protect your ego. hehe
S