Dear fellow creatives...tips and tricks on leading a creative life

[Peppermintbach]

Hi everyone,

As the title suggests, this thread is pretty much exactly as per the thread title. In some ways, I feel as though I'm a bit of a creative rut, which is awful when you're a creative person.

So I thought that I would try to ask for inspiration in terms of ideas and stories from fellow creatives. Hopefully other people also find this thread helpful in terms of reading and sharing.

So whether you're a professional or amateur graphic designer, industrial designer, architect, musician, writer, choreographer, dancer, landscaper, etc, etc...I would LOVE to hear your tips and anecdotes on how you inject creativity in your world and how your keep the creative spark alive.

Thank you!

Pepper

[quirkywords]

I know in writing I think it is hard to be original but if we bring our personality and uniqueness to an old topic we are showing a fresh approach.

In Theatre and films, a different version of an old classic like The Importance of Being Earnest, gives the director, [producer and actors to deliver a different version.

Quirky

[Peppermintbach]

Hi there,

Quirky- thanks, as always, for sharing your thoughts. I agree that creativity is often about, as you said, introducing a fresh take on something regardless of whether it's writing or films 🙂

Ways to be inspired

1. Dare to venture out of your music comfort zone

I suppose a lot of people have their preferred music genres but can I make a suggestion to try different music a go? You could end up loving music that you never expected to enjoy...

Say, if you're into rock indie, maybe give pop music a go. If you're into heavy metal, maybe give classical a go...who knows...maybe you'll enjoy Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring 😉 If you're into country music, maybe you could give heavy metal a go. You never know...you might be pleasantly surprised 🙂

Side note: I've been listening to Typhoon, Meg Mac, Apocalytica and London Grammar a lot lately.
Speaking of London Grammar...sheer emotion that speaks straight to the heart. 3 words: chills, tears and goosebumps.

2. Find your creative "tribe"

This is a tough one because it's, in many cases, easier said than done, to find your tribe(s). Of course there are different types of tribes but considering the topic of this thread, I'm referring to creative ones here. They are people who "get you" & that understanding is priceless; it's that "home" feeling that Moon described earlier. I'm still figuring out my tribe(s)...

Find your tribe and love them hard

- unknown

3. Redecorate/reorganise your home or even just your room (or part of it)

I find my living space has a huge impact on my mood. Move furniture around, find artwork and knick knacks, re-paint walls, hang interesting clothes as art on your wall, etc. You don't have to spend much (or any) money to do this 🙂

4. Channeling hurt and pain into a creative outlet

Many of you are likely to be doing this already....you can use creative expression as a means to give whatever hurt or pain a "voice" or a "face"...a "something"...sometimes it can be so powerful that it captures the exact feeling that you had wanted to express for a long time but perhaps didn't know how.

When you make something physical (i.e. of the external world...temporary or permanent) based on your inner world, it can be very empowering and validating. You don't have to be "logical" or "rational" or "explain" your feelings when it comes to creative expression...therein lies its beauty...a certain freedom that often isn't found elsewhere.

Kind thoughts,

Pepper

[Peppermintbach]

Hi lovely people,

As some of you know, this thread is part sharing ideas and part self help (or at least in my case lol). I just thought of some more ideas...

1. Reading philosophy books on aesthetics.

I've seen them around and have been meaning to borrow some titles from the library so I'll see how this one goes 😉

2. Enrol in a design course of some description

I am hoping to find an affordable short course. There are heaps around on different areas of design. Local community programs might be an affordable and convenient option.

3. Participate in free activities offered by art galleries and museums

There are often free film screenings, art courses, artist lectures, book signings, etc that could be both educational and inspiring.

4. Get together with friends and have a creative day or night

Get together with good friends. Bring out your paintbrushes, sketchpads, clay, musical instruments, writing pads- anything goes- and just create free style. Bounce off each other's energy.

You could wall up a room with plastic then thick paper on top (floor, walls) and get crazy with the paint. You could also do this alone but it's probably more fun with friends.

Kind thoughts,

Pepper

[quirkywords]

Pepper

Thanks for your thread and your helpful ideas.

I don't know much about visual arts but I went on a free tour of the Archibald exhibition last year and it was most interesting.

I think just trying something different can help. I actually wrote a blog about how people would describe their own self portrait if they had to. There were also a few portraits of people who had a mental illness and it was fascinating to see how they were portrayed,

Thanks again Pepper for all your are work.

Quirky

[quirkywords]

Pepper

I just wrote a reply , so in case I lost it I just wanted to at thanks for your hard work on this thread.

I went to a gallery and went on a free tour and I found that helpful

Quirky

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Quirky,

Thank you so much for the positive feedback 🙂 It means a lot and your words have made my morning.

The Archibald exhibition sounds like it was fantastic! I'm so glad you went as you clearly got a lot out of it. I'm now very curious about how those artists that you mentioned portrayed mental illnesses- it must have been pretty inspiring and very moving.

Hi everyone,

Just a few more simple ideas to creatively inspire:

1. Listen to busking singers and musicians

It can be easy to just rush past but if you're out and about and happen to stumble upon something that appeals to your ears then you could consider staying for the full set. You could end up discovering new music or an interesting cover of an existing song or piece.

2. Go listen to live music

Festivals and concerts are obvious options but on a smaller (and more affordable) scale, there are also regular live performances at local, smaller venues e.g. bars (only if you're 18 and over), cafes and restaurants. I always pay attention when local venues advertise when they have live performances as many have allocated days each week for them.

3. Attend or participate in an open mic night

You could just attend (or perform if you're game). Generally anything creative goes so it could be anything from singing to stand-up comedy. It's also a great way to build your confidence, meet people and get your work out there. There's also a casual attitude so it can be less pressure than more formal settings to showcase your creative work.

Hope you all have a nice weekend!

Kind thoughts,

Pepper

[Just Sara]

Hi Pepper;

I know this thread's about tips for creativity, so I'm wondering if having a creative mindset for problem solving could be included.

As you know I'm an organising type of gal that loves to potter in places unkempt or in disarray. I know, my practical side shines yet again. (But I am quite thrilled with karaoke!)

I took Art and Art History as electives at school and was quite apt at most mediums, but it annoyed me how the room was filled with all sorts of stuff not kept in a well organised state. Yes, it even goes back that far people.

I'm finally getting my garage built (soon) which will alleviate the bulk of non-home related stuff from my house. It'll take a little while as other issues are dealt with, but I'm so looking forward to having a space I can let loose my creative problem solving juices on with abandon.

As for buskers, I've seen some of the most creative and outstanding performances over the years which I contributed to with a flurry of money well spent I say. One of the most enjoyable was a young man who studied at a music conservatory. He strummed his 12 stringed guitar with precision and created the most magnificently beautiful melodies; mostly popular classical.

Hey Pepper! Wanna pop round to the local Karaoke bar for some well earned respite and laughs? I can't sing for quids, but I love to 'Peacock' and stir up a crowd. I've jumped on stage with quite a few singers and performers over the decades and loved every minute of it. And, I was never ushered off like some groupies are. Ha ha...

So have a great creative weekend yourself lovely!

Sara xo

[quirkywords]

Sara , Pepper and everyone,

I definitely think having a creative mindset in problem solving is very creative.

I believe there are so many ways one can be creative and you dont actually have to produce something.

I like encouraging buskers but giving them money for their great performances.

Karaoke is a lot of fun . Years ago at my cousins 21st we had guests from 5 years to 85 years singing together. It was magic to watch my mum who had dementia get up and sing. Of course she did not remember it later that night but she enjoyed it and had a great time.

I like the idea of working out how to store things in your garage.

I sometimes move my books and gifts around in my shop just to try something different.

Quirky

[Peppermintbach]

I'm happy to see some new responses here 🙂 Thank you!

Sara- sure, of course creative problem solving counts as a form of creativity. I loved your anecdote about your student day- it amused me this tendency started early in your life. Lol. Also, it was nice to learn a little more about you.

I'm excited for your new garage. Yes, it will help clear out some space in your home and you can get your creative juices goin'...the guitarist sounds very talented and impressive. Money well spent indeed and I'm sure he appreciated it too!

Virtual karaoke bar invite accepted! Lol. I admire your confidence- it all comes down to attitude after all and you have it in spades. I love karaoke, actually I love to sing in general so it will be fun. Yes, laughs and respite needed.

Quirky- yes, I'm with you that creativity doesn't have to involve a tangible product.

Looks like you're also into karaoke. You'll have to join us for this virtual karaoke-a-thon. I love how your

[Peppermintbach]

Oop...hit "post this reply" before I had finished typing..

Continued from above:

I love how your mum got so into the music. It must have been a beautiful and precious memory you have of her.

Your shop sounds interesting! Can I ask what kind of gifts you sell, Quirky?

Loving thoughts to both of you: Sara & Quirky 💓

Pepper xoxo