Un-abashed, genuine creativity
______My daughter who’s 3 has been getting quite good at painting and drawing. Her pre-conceptions of form, colour and technique are so unbridled she has an ability to simply create. The results are quite a revelation, the lack of schooling or influence means she can simply put marks on paper and enjoy it. If I try to direct her in anyway she tends to turn the picture into a great big mess with paint all over the place, swirling her hands around in it and generally making a stooshie. However when left on her own she constantly surprises me with exquisitely abstract and expressive pictures that some might argue parallel some of the most prolific modern artists. What I draw from this is that it is not always wise to plan or approach projects in a certain way, especially if you want something genuine and unique.
______As a graphic designer I am constantly given references to a certain visual style or a specific designer, this is all well and good but if projects are to take flight, become iconic and timeless I think a more free and naive approach is invaluable. As an adult it’s very difficult to achieve this state of mind, with the trappings of the modern world and constant inspiration at our fingertips the ability to create completely free of influence is very difficult. There is a lot to be said for sitting down with a piece of paper dipping your hands in it and swishing around on a piece of paper making a total burach. It almost always looks rubbish (and brown) but it is great fun. Try it (although having kids obviously make it seem more acceptable). I bet when you sit down to a long day in front of illustrator or photoshop you will find your creativity will be less formulaic and more rewarding and productive as a result.