Delving into “Unnecessary Creating”

My role in the visual arts is the spectator, the viewer, standing on the opposite side of a work of art.  I have no interest in studio work, painting, drawing, sculpting, printmaking.

Until recently…….. who inspired this new interest or desire to be involved in the production of visual expression? He is not an artist, but one who diligently supports those involved in creative work to be more productive, to “unleash everyday brilliance.” He is Todd Henry of Accidental Creative (www.accidentalcreative.com), my mentor to my creative work through his podcast series and several books.

In the “business” of preparing lectures, creating content for blogs, podcasting, building relationships with artists, and the list goes on, Henry encourages creatives to fill their own personal well through a “stimulus dive,” with experiences that inspire and broaden your view of the world, like nature hikes, seeing a new genre film, visiting a museum. Another
“stimuli” is “unnecessary creating, ” an activity that you are not being paid for, so there is no pressure in your performance. Henry shared on his podcast he plays the mandolin.

“Unnecessary Creating” with Photography

Starting this week, I am adding “photography” to my stimuli queue. For now, I will employ my Iphone and will manipulate the images I take through apps, etc. I purchased “The Enthusiast’s Guid to Iphone Photography” by Sean Duggan as my guide. Will blog more in the future about this “unnecessary creative” endeavor!