Creativity involves a pause

This post is directed to all visual artists who are transitioning from imitating (mimesis) to fearlessly expressing their true selves (poeitesis) through their art. During our art workshops in Italy and France, this is a question we frequently address as a group over a copious meal. To explain my views, I draw this metaphor from my long experience as a canoeist on the rivers of the Canadian north.

Many times, during my extended expeditions, I had to stop my canoe to find out exactly where I was on that very river. The topographical map on my thighs, compass (not a GPS) on hand, sun on my left or right shoulder, bow in azimuth, I observed the slightest elevations and depressions in the land, the sloping reeds beneath my canoe. After a few anxious moments (I must admit), once more I knew exactly where I was in the Canadian vastness. There, I was happy to take back my paddle.

The same applies to your art. Alone in your studio, guided by your intuition, stop, sit down, with your notes in hand, your mindmap on the wall, to gather a feel for the next avenues. I suggest you take a few days to write down a first draft of an artistic statement. It will put some order into your thoughts to better clarify them. Be warned, however, that this will not be your final statement, as others will follow.

Set parameters: no more than 500 words, write a seductive title, an incipit (very first line) that hooks; write in the active form. Watch out for repetition and tautology! The more honest you are with yourself, the easier it will be to write this text. The more you hesitate to let go with your art, the harder it will be.

If you have strong preliminary drawings for paintings or sculptures, consider them as your guiding compass. It’s time to put your thoughts into words and start writing! After a few long, anxious moments (as you’ll see), you’ll know exactly where you are in the vastness of your being. There, with your tool in hand, you’ll be happy to pursue your quest for meaning.