Creative Becoming

Heartbeat of an Artist

For the artist, there is something that seeks expression.  It is a longing, a desire and a propulsion to create what is yet unknown into the manifest world.  I didn’t understand it at the time, but my third-grade teacher was correct when she pulled my mother aside and told her I would be an artist.  For years I thought it meant being a visual artist.  I graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies and Studio Art with a concentration in Buddhism and photography.  My path into the world, however, was unclear.  All these years later, after countless meandering paths through life, I can finally see my own unique artform. 

The Creativity Component

From a classical perspective, to be an artist is to engage in the expression of ideas, emotions, and experiences through various forms of media such as painting, music, writing, or performance.  An artist uses their imagination and skills to create works that evoke feelings, provoke thoughts, or inspire others.  They are the alchemists who transform the mundane into the extraordinary, the abstract into the tangible, and the silence into symphonies.

One critical component in the artist’s toolbox is creativity.  It is the ability to generate original ideas, concepts, or solutions, often by combining existing elements in new and innovative ways.  An artist who is empowered with this tool means they can think outside the box, take risks, and explore new possibilities.  They are guided by a curiosity that helps them to continue trying and remixing things, like a scientist in a lab—to approach problems or tasks with an open mind and innovative thinking.  Creativity is the spark that ignites new ways of interpreting the world and enables the conception of something novel. 

Being creative, however, is not limited to the realm of “artist” as it’s an inherent aspect of the human experience.  It permeates every facet of our lives, from our most basic survival instincts to our most profound emotional and intellectual pursuits.  Creativity enables us to devise innovative solutions and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring our survival and success.  In social interactions, humor, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex social situations are all manifestations of our creative nature.  The ability to imagine and think abstractly is a fundamental aspect of human creativity.  Our curiosity drives us to explore the unknown, ask questions, and seek new knowledge, fueling innovation and discovery.

 A Spiritual Quest 

Since graduating from college, two things have been abundantly clear—my passion for the quest of Truth and the pursuit of self-evolution.  Unbeknownst to me, my spiritual path has been leading me through the alchemical terrain of inner transformation where art and being creative merge.  My body of work here at The Living Art has emerged from this intersection.   I have been a visual artist, but my potential comes alive in the sacred space of metamorphosis where the transcendent nature of being a living art is awakened within each of us.   This is my gift and my true artform.

The Canvas Within

If being creative is innate to being human, then by default, we are all artists in our own right.  The canvas is not external, but an internal space that we consciously create as we do our inner work to emerge embodied.  Purpose is integrated into potential because we are looking beyond what is expected or adopted due to outside influences.  This is a process of distillation and leaves behind what is original; the dimension where we all shine.  In this work, we paint upon the canvas with the colors of kindness, forgiveness, acceptance, courage, and peacefulness to become.    

 Creativity in Everyday 

The art of becoming is a process and one that The Living Art workshops explore in depth.  However, we can get started by inviting more opportunities to be consciously creative in how we show up and greet the moment.  We can shape and color our lives and the world around us with our unique blend of experiences, emotions, and ideas.  Here are some different ways to get started:

• Seek the extraordinary in the ordinary: Challenge yourself to find beauty, meaning, and inspiration in the mundane aspects of daily life.  Set a time each day to observe the world around you with fresh eyes and appreciate the subtle miracles that often go unnoticed.

• Cultivate mindful curiosity: Approach every experience with a sense of wonder and a genuine desire to learn.  Ask questions, explore new perspectives, and stay open to the possibility of discovering something new and unexpected.

• Embrace vulnerability: Commit to sharing one authentic thought, feeling, or experience with someone you trust each week.  By opening up to others, you'll create deeper connections and encourage greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance in your relationships.

• Transform challenges into opportunities: When faced with obstacles, take a step back and brainstorm at least three creative solutions.  Instead of dwelling on limitations, focus on the possibilities that emerge from stepping outside your comfort zone.

• Practice active listening: Engage with others in meaningful conversations and truly listen to their stories, ideas, and perspectives.  This exchange of thoughts and experiences can inspire new insights and foster creative growth.

• Visit art galleries and museums: Plan a visit to an art gallery or museum once a month to immerse yourself in creative environments. Go with the intention of learning about what inspired the artist and how they chose to interpret that inspiration into a manifested form.

• Read books on creativity: Set a goal to read at least one book on creativity every two months.  This could be books on artistic techniques, the creative process, or the lives of famous artists.  These resources can offer valuable insights on nurturing your own creative lifestyle.

New Beginnings Await.

Creativity is not only an integral aspect of being an artist but also a key component of our human existence.  By embracing and cultivating our creativity, we open ourselves up to a more nourishing and fulfilling life.  When we are available and receptive, as opposed to closed-down and shut off, we’re in an expanded state of being that is prime for creating art.  Not through a physical medium, but through the inner-scape of who you become.  “Creative Becoming” is therefore, the inward facing, conscious experience of crafting yourself to be the living art.    

Creativity is a doorway.  It is an access point to a more enriching life because it grounds us into the experience of life, instead of unconsciously floating through it.  We’ll begin to wake up and make new connections within ourselves to become courageous explorers who venture within to bring forth previously hidden treasures.  The true value of life resides here.  By integrating a creative approach into your daily life, you'll not only invite more opportunities for creative expression but also foster a deeper connection with your true self, unveiling the inner masterpiece that resides within.  Embrace the living art that you are, and let it inspire and transform you as you journey through the beautiful tapestry of life.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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