Drawing Connections
Insights from psychology and cognitive science on making art and thriving as artists
Is it really fear we feel when we worry about what other people think about us or our work? Reframing “fear” in this context as “vulnerability” helps identify a range of useful strategies for thriving in an uncertain social environment.
Is it really fear we feel when we are in situations where we don’t know what we’re doing? Reframing “fear” in this context as “confusion” can help us identify a broad range of strategies for what to do when we feel out of our depth.
Is it fear that artists and writers feel when facing the blank canvas or page? Reframing fear in this context as uncertainty about how to make a start or keep going can help us identify concrete ways to become unstuck.
Sometimes what we label as fear is really uncertainty, confusion, or vulnerability. Read on to learn how reframing fear can lead to problem-solving solutions that are more useful than the vague encouragement to “be brave.”
Limiting choices can give your brain a rest and, paradoxically, increase creativity.
Is stress shutting down your creative brain or is it helping you to make creative leaps?
How does walking boost creativity and what kind of walking is the most effective?
How I made good on my intention to bring my art practice on holiday.
I have been interested in observing people and making art as far back as I can remember. Now, I’m combining these interests in my new blog.
I fell into a period of creative hibernation after my brother Jim passed away suddenly in November. I was not expecting grief to take such a toll on my creative drive and ability. One thing that has helped is studio time that is free from intention and instead focused on simply enjoying the suspended moment of the present.