My theme for the Blogging from A to Z challenge is Creativity. Today I discuss Craft and Curiosity!
I think to really boost your creativity, you need to know your craft. Whether you’re writing, sculpting, dancing, or working on a new scientific theory, you need to know at least the basics of your field or hobby.
I’m not saying you can’t be creative by just jumping into something. Many people approach a creative project that way—the old “hold your nose and take the plunge” method. I just think you’re going to be more successful, and have a better chance of exploring your creativity, if you aren’t bogged down by struggling with the basics.
Along with the idea of learning your craft, is the need for curiosity in order to be creative. If you question things, learn more about your subject, be curious about the world, people, and things around you, your creativity will be sparked.
Say you’re writing about a cat stalking a mouse. You could probably come up with a suitable description. But if you first observe a real cat stalking a mouse, or some other critter, or read about cats, or watch a movie, or all of these things, your description will be much more creative. You might see some detail in the cat’s movement or reaction that triggers a way to make your writing original—perhaps adding something humorous or foreboding, depending on what your story or article is about.
Learn your Craft as the foundation for your creativity. Curiosity will help you dig deeper into your creativity, producing something that is truly “you.”
Linda Covella, Author 
I loved the parting lines
Thank you, Ruby 🙂
Well said, Linda. I think curiosity is at the base of learning. Without it, it’s hard to see that one really learns, but merely memorizes. Thanks for the post, a good reminder.
Well said, as well, Silvia! Thanks!
I love the idea of watching a video to come up with a more creative description. I’ve found myself doing this on a number of occasions 🙂
Any observation is helpful! Thanks for your comment, Kate!
My curiosity is one of the things that keeps me writing (and reading, for that matter) everyday. I have to know what will happen next.
Thanks for the suggestions.
Leanne Ross ( readfaced.wordpress.com & @LeanneRossRF )
Thanks for stopping by, Leanne!
I really agree with your take on things. I interview artists, and they say much the same about observing and also, imprinting the work with your own style. Great post, and thank you for stopping by!
Alex Hurst | Fantasy Writer in Kyoto (from A-Z)
http://alex-hurst.com/
Thank you, Alex!
When I first started writing, I jumped in head first, but at the time, publishing wasn’t part of the picture. I was doing it for fun. Once publishing came in, I started learning more about writing and how to be a better writer.
~Patricia Lynne~
Story Dam
Patricia Lynne, YA Author
I’ve been known to jump into different endeavors 🙂 As far as writing, though I’ve been writing most of my life and taking creative writing classes in HS and college, like you, I really started focusing on learning the craft once I started seeking publication–in children’s writing. Thanks for your comment, Patricia!