The Book Whisperer Essay

The Active Pursuit of Creativity: Beyond the Identity of an Artist

Creativity, a cornerstone of human innovation and expression, can be defined as the capacity to conceive and develop original, valuable ideas or solutions. This intricate process involves a blend of imagination, ingenuity, and the ability to synthesise disparate elements into meaningful forms. However, the journey into creativity is often fraught with misconceptions, particularly regarding the role of identity versus action. Austin Kleon, in Steal Like an Artist, incisively points out that the wellspring of creative work lies not in the mere label of "artist" but in the active engagement with the art itself. This essay argues that true creative fulfillment and the realisation of artistic potential are not achieved through passive identification but through the consistent and deliberate practice of creative work, a principle supported by the diverse perspectives offered in ten influential books exploring the creative process.

The initial step in embracing creativity involves acknowledging the interconnectedness of ideas and the legitimacy of building upon existing work. Kleon argues that originality is a fluid concept, with all creative acts drawing from a shared pool of influences. He encourages creators to become astute collectors, selectively absorbing inspiration from various sources – art, music, literature, and the everyday world. This active engagement with external stimuli is not about imitation but about understanding the underlying thought and transforming it into something uniquely one's own. By tracing the lineage of their heroes, creators can better understand their own place within this continuum of influence, recognising that progress is often made through a process of building upon and diverging from established traditions.

However, the path of creative endeavor is rarely smooth, often beset by internal obstacles that can hinder progress. Steven Pressfield, in The War of Art, vividly describes "Resistance" as a powerful internal force dedicated to preventing creative work. This Resistance manifests as procrastination, fear of failure, self-doubt, and a host of other insidious distractions. Pressfield notes that the more significant the creative calling, the more potent the Resistance will be. Similarly, Elizabeth Gilbert, in Big Magic, addresses the pervasive role of fear in the creative process. She suggests that fear is an inevitable companion to creativity and should be acknowledged and navigated rather than suppressed. Gilbert advocates for cultivating curiosity as a driving force that can help individuals move past their fears and embrace the uncertainties of creative exploration. Overcoming these internal barriers, the resistance to begin and the fear of not succeeding, is a crucial aspect of transforming the desire to be an artist into the consistent act of making art.

Cultivating a sustainable creative practice often involves the establishment of routines and rituals. Julia Cameron, in The Artist's Way, introduces practical tools such as "Morning Pages" – a daily exercise in free writing to clear the mind and access inner creativity – and "Artist Dates" – dedicated solo time for nurturing one's artistic spirit and seeking inspiration. These practices provide structure and create a consistent space for creative exploration. Mason Currey's Daily Rituals further illustrates the importance of routine by showcasing the diverse yet often disciplined daily schedules of numerous accomplished artists and thinkers. Currey’s work reveals that while individual habits may vary, a commitment to regular work, often at specific times and in dedicated environments, is a common thread among those who consistently produce creative work. This suggests that establishing a reliable routine can help tame the elusive muse and provide a stable foundation for sustained creative effort.

For those facing seemingly insurmountable creative tasks, Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird offers invaluable advice on the power of breaking down projects into smaller, more manageable "short assignments". This incremental approach helps to alleviate the feeling of being overwhelmed and allows creators to make steady progress, one step at a time. Lamott also emphasises the importance of allowing oneself to produce imperfect first drafts, recognising that these initial attempts are a necessary part of the creative process. This focus on gradual progress and the acceptance of imperfection are vital for overcoming the inertia that can prevent individuals from even starting, let alone finishing, their creative endeavors.

Building belief in one's creative capabilities is also essential for transforming the identity of an artist into the practice of art. Tom Kelley and David Kelley, in Creative Confidence, argue that the ability to generate and act on creative ideas is not a fixed trait but a skill that can be developed through practice and by embracing a mindset of action over planning. They highlight the importance of taking small steps, learning from failures, and cultivating a belief in one's capacity for innovation. Paul Arden, in It's Not How Good You Are, echoes this sentiment by emphasising the power of aspiration and the drive to improve. Arden suggests that having ambitious goals and a strong desire to be good are more critical than one's current level of skill, encouraging individuals to aim high and view challenges as opportunities for growth.

The perspective of ambition and a willingness to embrace unconventional thinking are further explored in Arden's work and in George Lois's Damn Good Advice. Arden stresses the importance of being proactive, accountable, and open to new ideas in the pursuit of creative excellence. Lois, drawing from his legendary career in advertising, advocates for the power of the "big idea" and the need for decisive action in bringing those ideas to life. He encourages creators to step away from their desks, seek inspiration from the world around them, and trust their creative instincts to produce work that is both impactful and memorable. These perspectives underscore that true creative practice often requires a boldness of vision and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Finally, the act of "doing the work" extends beyond the solitary creation to include the crucial step of sharing one's creative journey and output. Austin Kleon, in Show Your Work!, emphasises the benefits of transparency and generosity in the creative process. He argues that by sharing their process, even in its early stages, creators can connect with others, build an audience, and find new opportunities. Kleon encourages the sharing of small, valuable insights and influences on a regular basis, fostering a sense of community and allowing others to learn and be inspired by one's work. This act of making one's creative journey visible transforms the solitary act of art-making into a communal experience, where generosity and openness can lead to unexpected discovery and connection.

In conclusion, the journey from identifying as an artist to embodying the practice of art is a dynamic process fueled by consistent action and a commitment to the creative work itself. The insights from these ten books converge to highlight the importance of active engagement over passive identification. By embracing influences, overcoming internal obstacles, cultivating productive routines, persevering through challenges, building creative confidence, pursuing ambitious visions, and generously sharing their work, individuals can move beyond the mere aspiration of being an artist and fully embrace the rewarding and transformative experience of "doing the work." True creative identity is not a static noun but a vibrant verb, constantly shaped and redefined through the ongoing act of creation.

Works Cited