346: Understanding Creativity

–WHY do some people love art and others seem unmoved by it? I'm always interested in the reaction of people who visit our home. Our living room has art hanging from floor to ceiling. Some people don't even notice–which always intrigues us since our collection (which includes an original work by Carl Bloch) is such a prominent part of the room.

I've always assumed that with enough persuasion nearly anyone could be convinced that life with art would be superior to one devoid of art (read my five reasons to collect art here). Despite straining my persuasive abilities to the limit I don't think I've persuaded anyone to collect art. It seems that needle is very difficult, if not impossible, to move.

I recently stumbled across a fascinating video about creativity from an artistic and psychological perspective. The ideas presented were compelling and explained some of the reasons that art appeals to some and not others. I do believe that creativity expresses itself in a broad spectrum. A neighbor had an incredible gift for fixing engines. The friend who built my studio had a remarkable gift for solving building problems as well as reaching an aesthetic mark with a limited budget.

So I know that creativity can manifest itself in a variety of ways. The following video of an interview with Jordan Peterson, makes many points, such as; if you genuinely like art you are probably creative. Or; art embodies tremendous beauty and continued revelation. As well as; people are terrified of art because it speaks of the ultimate depths. And my favorite, art is exploration. (Watch the video here. Note that the audio improves at 1 minute.)

Additionally, Jordan Peterson mentions a book, Genius, by Hans Eysenck, about the nature of the creative personality that promises to be worth reading (Deb, if you are reading this post this would make a great Christmas present!)

I will continue to be an advocate for art while understanding the limitations of such efforts. I hope you enjoy the video as much as I did.

Brad Teare –May 2018

Above: Grand Canal, 24" x 24", (sold).

181: Five reasons to collect art

YOU BELIEVE IN AUTHENTICITY

When people enter a well furnished room and see a fabulous painting they want to get closer. Such magnetism is a powerful emotional gift to the viewer. If they see an original—not a poster or mechanical reproduction—they witness firsthand the journey of the artist's mind and hand embodied in a physical artifact. To be in the presence of such authenticity evokes an energy that transforms a glance into an experience.

YOU BELIEVE IN EXCELLENCE

Supporting an olympic team or orchestra denotes sympathy for excellence. Supporting artists who create world class art signifies a similar kinship. Surrounding yourself with inspiring friends deepens and enriches your life. In like fashion original art inspires and uplifts. Supporting excellence builds a vibrant culture that benefits all and becomes the superstructure for intelligent and meaningful society.

YOU BELIEVE IN BEAUTY

Much of the modern world is visually fatiguing–the tangle of telephone lines, billboards, and urban signage exhausts the viewer–much like exposure to constant noise. A selection of original paintings offsets the eye-lacerating effects of the modern world and provides a visual oasis to recharge and refresh the mind. The imagination constitutes a large part of our lives and original paintings are a potent way to keep the imagination alive and vibrant.

YOU BELIEVE IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

You realize that although aspects of life can seem mundane the sense of being alive is fostered by acts of significance. By collecting original art you participate in the venerable tradition as a patron of the arts. Art fostered today becomes the cultural legacy of tomorrow. People who buy art make future paintings possible. People who collect art are people who expand their cultural contribution and make a real difference.

YOU BELIEVE IN CREATIVITY

You realize that those who excel embrace creativity—whether they are doctors, lawyers, housewives, or craftsmen. Creativity seeks to expand and magnify all human experience. It is the invisible value that rescues any effort from the mundane. You understand this process and intuitively surround yourself with people and objects that enhance your engagement with creativity. Paintings are tangible witness to your belief in creativity.

Brad Teare—July 2014