Trust Your Creative Vision
There is a fine line between “shiny object syndrome” and creative expansion. So how do you know the difference? On today’s episode we talk about how to identify the difference between distractions and purposeful creative growth, the forms in which they can take, and when to share your new style shift with others.
Distraction or Expansion?
Sometimes it feels as though you’re falling into a rabbit hole with a new material, or an artistic discipline that does not seem to have a direct connection to your work. But how are you supposed to know if it is a distraction or expansion?
To start, distractions aren’t always a bad thing. Creative distractions are only bad (and unsustainable) if they are at a sacrifice to your larger creative vision. In this case you may need to set parameters for them so you don’t “waste time” or get stuck with “shiny object syndrome”
Some examples of creative distractions include…
New discipline - ceramics, sculpture, textiles, carving
New mediums - watercolor, gouache, mineral pigments, alcohol markers
New substrates - wood panels, plaster, loose canvas
Shifting directions and motifs - Patterns and shapes, cultural heritage, social message, techniques used to create the work
Exploring a new color palette
New creative influences - researching a new topic, journaling about a new idea, etc.
How can you tell the difference between distraction and expansion?
A distraction can often result in a lot of time spent researching and developing a new direction without it being linked to your current style. This is okay for a short period or time but eventually you will need to ask yourself “How does this connect with my larger body of work?” If there isn’t a current connection you can create a bridge or shift your style entirely, but it is often a choice.
Another distinguishing difference is if this new creative outlet, style, motif etc is draining or refilling your creative tank. Distractions may be exciting at first but will often lose steam quickly. Creative expansion, however, will often lead you to generating more ideas than you can possibly create! This creative inspiration will be a sign that the style may be sticking around for a while.
What “restrictions” or self assessments can you put in place to know the difference?
In order to know the difference between a distraction and expansion you must be brutally honest and ask yourself - can you see this turning into anything serious? If you decide it is just a detour, enjoy it for what it is and take from it what you can, and then move on. The key is always to find a balance between the time you spend creating your usual work and the new creative endeavor.
Ultimately in your creative exploration always remember to give yourself permission to explore new mediums, techniques, etc. Just keep an eye out if this happens all the time and it really is shiny object syndrome or just your way of resting between larger bodies of work. Or it may just be your way of evolving and expanding your work - either way - enjoy the journey!
Podcast Music By Corey Claxton:
Website: https://www.coreyclaxton.com/
Instagram: @thecoreyclaxton
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3gMzkkK
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