Lots of research swirls around this topic, along with many opinions.
What is creativity?
Natural, or nutured?
Is everyone creative?
What does it mean to be inspired?
As with many things, the simplest answer is the best, and it comes from Chuck Close, one of my favorite artists.
"Inspiration is for amateurs — the rest of us just show up and get to work.”
Close goes on:
"I was never one of those people who had to have a perfect situation to paint in. I can make art anywhere, anytime — it doesn’t matter. I mean, I know so many artists for whom having the perfect space is somehow essential. They spend years designing, building, outfitting the perfect space, and then when it is just about time to get to work they’ll sell that place and build another one. It seems more often than not a way to keep from having to work. But I could paint anywhere. I made big paintings in the tiniest bedrooms, garages, you name it. you know, once I have my back to the room, I could be anywhere."
Could it be that simple? That just by working at it every day you can become inspired and more creative?
Yes, in my opinion. When I write more, my writing is better (ditto when I read more). When I paint more, my painting is better (as is my thought process). Spontaneous creativity requires (oxymoronically) discipline and persistence. Grit. Mental toughness.
Creativity is not for the weak and flowery. Please visit this link to read more from Close on his schedule and his thoughts on what simply showing up daily does (and links to other great artists, writers and muscians and their thoughts on creativity).
Then get out there and go to work.
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