The Psychology of Creativity: What Makes an Artist?

By Logan Reed 3 min read

Have you ever stared at a blank canvas or an empty page, hoping the creative muses would bestow their gifts upon you? It’s a feeling many can relate to—waiting for inspiration to strike or wondering what really makes a person an artist. If you’ve ever questioned your creative potential or puzzled over the nature of creativity, you’re in the right place. Let’s unlock the secrets behind the psychology of creativity and discover what makes an artist tick.

Understanding Creativity: It’s More Than a Muse

Creativity isn’t a magical power reserved for a select few. Rather, it’s a skill that can be cultivated, akin to learning to ride a bike or mastering a new language. According to psychologist Dr. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, creativity involves a balance of skill and challenge—a state he famously calls ‘flow’. Have you ever lost track of time while engrossed in a project? That’s ‘flow’ at work!

Is Creativity Innate or Can It Be Learned?

Good news! While some individuals naturally exhibit higher creative tendencies, creativity is not strictly innate. Psychological studies suggest that nurturing certain habits and mindsets can significantly enhance one’s creative abilities.

Curiosity: Embrace your inner questioner. The more questions you ask, the more opportunities you have to see the world through a new lens.
Openness to Experience: Be adventurous in thought and action. Trying new things can spark ideas and perspectives previously hidden.
Resilience: Embrace failure as part of the creative process—a stepping stone rather than a setback.

The Art of Perception: Seeing Like an Artist

Think of creativity as a filter through which artists perceive the world. It’s not about seeing something new, but seeing with fresh eyes. Pablo Picasso once suggested,

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

The trick? Foster a playful, childlike approach to creativity.

Exercise Your Perception Muscles

Here are some activities to help you practice seeing with an artist’s eye:

The World Upside Down: Try sketching an object from different angles or upside down. The change in perspective might shake loose some new interpretations.
Color Your World: Carry a small notebook and jot down or sketch the colors you see throughout the day. How do they change with the light or your mood?
Mind Mapping: Pick a word or theme and radiate ideas from it onto paper. It’s less linear and more spontaneous.

The Role of Environment: Crafting Your Creative Space

Your environment plays a crucial role in creativity. A cluttered or uninspiring space can dampen the muse’s visit, while a well-suited environment may cradle innovation.

How to Design Your Creative Sanctuary

Personalize: Surround yourself with images, quotes, or objects that resonate with your creative spirit.
Minimize Distractions: Ensure your workspace remains free from noise or interruptions, giving your creative mind a clear runway.
Equip for Spontaneity: Have tools readily available for when inspiration decides to pop by for a coffee.

Debunking Myths: Insights from Real Artists

Many aspiring creators are daunted by myths surrounding creativity. Let’s tackle a few:

Myth: You’re either born with creativity or not.
Truth: Creative skills can be learned and refined.
Myth: Artists are always ‘inspired’.
Truth: Real artists create their muse by sitting down to work consistently.
Myth: Creativity means originality.
Truth: Creativity often involves connecting existing ideas uniquely or innovatively.

Let’s Get Creative!

Now that you’re armed with insights into the psychology of creativity, why not experiment with these strategies in your own life? Begin by tackling a small creative project, be it writing a poem, sketching a flower, or even redecorating a living space. Remember, the key is to start small and to embrace the process.

As you embark on your creative journey, consider documenting your adventures, hurdles, and breakthroughs. Share your experiences with others—perhaps through a community forum or social media. There is immense power in shared creativity, and who knows? Your journey might just inspire someone else to dust off their paintbrush or pen.