I wrote an article a few years ago that was posted on the Creativity Portal. It was about what motivates us to
create. I believe our desire to create is part of being alive and the nature of the universe. Often what motivates us is inspiration from either positive or negative experiences. In my past article I used the example of the oyster and the pearl.
According to livescience.com, “A natural pearl begins its life inside an oyster’s shell when an intruder, such as a grain of sand or bit of floating food, slips in between one of the two shells of the oyster, a type of mollusk, and the protective layer that covers the mollusk’s organs, called the mantle. In order to protect itself from irritation, the oyster will quickly begin covering the uninvited visitor with layers of nacre — the mineral substance that fashions the mollusk’s shells. Layer upon layer of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, coat the grain of sand until the iridescent gem is formed. Cultured pearls are made in the same way. The only difference is that instead of accidental circumstances, a “pearl farmer” embeds a grain of sand into the mollusk.”
So it is with creativity that often the things that “irritate” us or cause deep emotions are the best inspiration for works of art. So often artists comment on how their best work came from some dark or unhappy moment in their lives. Does this mean you have to be angry or depressed to create, no. However, knowing how to dig deep into your emotions to find inspiration is the key. Perhaps in creating a beautiful song, poem, dance, painting or even a great meal can help us to release these emotions in a constructive and contributing way to society.
To read the entire article about the Oyster and the Pearl go to:
http://www.creativity-portal.com/cca/ellen-johnson/what-motivates-us-create.html
Like this:
Like Loading...