A Hunk of Clay, A Box of Crayons, and Some Pencils
I was listening to an interview by the famous American fashion designer, Zac Posen, when he made the above statement, as the title of this blog.
I was surprised, but delighted, that he was sharing this important viewpoint about the creative process. He shared this affirmation with parents when asked how they can raise creative children. He said all they need is a hunk of clay, a box of crayons, and some pencils. I couldn’t agree more!
Not only is this an important concept in the creative process in teaching children, but the statement applies equally to adults.
A messy and organic approach to exploring art mediums is very helpful in igniting your creativity. When we try to hold on to a perfect outcome in our art projects, we miss the opportunity to discover the unknown. The unknown experience in art is where the essence exits. It is in this unknown field, that we open our imaginations, our timeless flow, and the joy of discovery through our mistakes and explorations. This is an important aspect in cultivating an open and non-judgemental attitude.
The hands on experience of a hunk of clay, a box of crayons, and some pencils could take one down the right path of wonderful messy mistakes. Reframing the idea that mistakes are bad into “playful” discoveries, the pressure to “succeed” is reduced. By allowing oneself to tap into a childlike attitude of play, the creative process itself is the focus. Getting lost in the creative process, rather than expecting a certain result (most times plagued by perfectionism), can lift up our attitude with the everyday mundane realities we all encounter.
A hunk of clay, a box of crayons, and some pencils is more or less a simple metaphor for having less to do more. No fancy equipment or complicated instructions are needed.
I believe Zac Posen got to the heart of things. It doesn’t take much to jump into the creative process. You can start with simple materials, and just see where the experience takes you.
“Just become like a child and discover the beauty and wonder in the world” Tibetan Quote
