Part I: Awkward Acts & Creating Blank Slates . . .

Exploring 21st Centry Creativity

I was attending an unusual art installation last spring at the historic Leonard at Logan House, in Grand Rapids, MI (one of my favorite event venues.)  While milling about, I heard a group of youngish artists discussing the fate of creativity.  The passion and absoluteness in their exchange was rather riveting.  They were very excited about one video installation in particular because of its gender-bending insight.  As I listened, I heard one of the youngish women say, “I just don’t know if there is much left to create anymore.  I mean, haven’t we done it all?”

This struck me, since I have been going through a creative renaissance of my own in the last few years.  What was once a romantic struggle between both tormented and delicious forces is now simply a part of the day for me.   The mystery of the “blank slate” is now a more comfortable and really fun friend.  Perhaps I'm growing up.

After reflecting further upon that woman's comment, however, I noticed a few things in the language of friends and clients:

1. People are very creative, and want to express that.  It doesn’t matter if they are the next Van Gogh or not.
2. We all participate in each other’s creative efforts (and in modern society, this is essential).
3. We humans have certain beliefs that aren’t necessarily true and those false beliefs effect how and how well we create.
4. When creativity knocks, it demands a blank slate.  If you do not give it one, it is created for you (whether you like it or not).
5. In order to create something – whether individually or collectively – trust is paramount.

These observations are not restricted to the individual.  They are also part of a 21st century corporate phenomenon.   As we explore how to wriggle free of a manufacturing mindset, we find ourselves in a more collectively creative world.   Customers – by demanding knowledge (like where things come from, how they are made and how can they do it themselves) -- are one of the forces leading us into century 21.  Sharing knowlegde (not just information)  trumps isolating ourselves and employees to "just" a set of tasks.  These tasks are very important, but most of us would also rather be a part of something . . . bigger, more conversational, more narrative.  Now anyone can have a seat at the idea table and anyone can contribute to developing that idea.  Anyone can do something that changes a tiny piece of the world around them.  So when companies (of any size) look at the more innovative aspects of their employees amazing, -- and sometimes-accidental events happen.  These events lay the groundwork for great marketing.   Making a creative shift, however, requires a blank slate and enough trust to do something . . . awkward.

What Does that Mean?  (You might ask.)  Stay tuned for Part II:  Prepare by Surprising Yourself

I'll be exploring the importance of storytelling in life, marketing and in organizations in upcoming "On Marketing" posts.