Constraints and Creativity
Man, it’s been a tough year and a half.
I’ve been thinking about all the challenges presented in 2020-2021, and who is thriving despite all the change and uncertainty. Those who are thriving found ways to quickly adapt and respond to the changes and constraints brought on by the pandemic.
This week I was reflecting on my teaching philosophy (that’s the kind of thing you do when you apply for jobs.) I would describe one part of my teaching philosophy as this:
From the tightest parameters comes the greatest creativity.
A trite adage you might know is “Necessity is the mother of invention.” But many of the best artists know that from a set of rules or constraints, ideas are born. I watch my students tackle the issue of constraints every day when I give them a problem (also know as an assignment,) and they come up with an inventive solution.
Every artist you know uses critical thinking and problem-solving skills every day in their studio. Artists play out problem solving and adapting right on the page, in space, or with materials in real time.
I was recently working with a group of adults with dementia and their caregivers. I chose to focus on the work of Henri Matisse. Matisse is one of the great examples of an artist thriving by responding creatively to constraints. Unable to paint when he was confined to a wheelchair after surgery, Matisse began making paper cut-outs, “cutting into color” and arranging the colored paper shapes onto the wall. Matisse’s cutouts were a breakthrough for him and for the world of art, as they “transcended the traditional boundaries of conventional painting, drawing and sculpture.”
This year has brought so many constraints. Here are some I dealt with: Create a sculpture assignment using only the materials students have at home. Teach with a mask on in a studio where the air system drowns out all sound. Give a tour of a museum exhibition from home. And the worst: No hugging.
But! I have always created a set of tight parameters for my work. For example: With only paper, glue and tape, replicate a life size architectural cornice. Erect a room-size structure from fragile parts using only screws, c-clamps and zipties. Use nothing but a utility knife to cut through a sheetrock wall.
Within a framework, I thrive. I’m considering the ways I can continue to take inspiration from my own work performing within a set of constraints. Because although the rules may be loosening up, there will always be new constraints.
Has art helped you deal with constraints in your own life? If so, how? Get in touch, I’d love to hear from you!
