Awhile ago, I jotted down this quote from Billy Wilder, “an Austro-Hungarian born American filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, artist, and journalist….” He is long gone from this earth plane…however, as you know, quotes live on.
Creative beings who’ve been practicing their art, know this quote–“Creativity is not comfortable”–in a deeply experiential way. They understand the edges, precipices, walls; the angst, internal subterfuge and the pushing through. They understand the daring and the doing despite doubts, fears and/or internal or external pressure to halt!
Why is creating so uncomfortable? I think it is partly because when you are fully in the creative process, you, yourself go through changes as you create.
TRANSFORMATION could be a synonym for creativity.
Webster’s Dictionary, in defining transformation says “…to change a thing into a different thing. Transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function…”
On the canvas, I resist because things are going to be disrupted and perhaps even “ugly” for awhile. If I am attached to what is on the canvas, it’s going to be hard to let it go. When I’m backed into a creative corner, I have to make a move that can feel forced upon me in some way. There is a risk as I leave my comfort zone and engage the unknown. This whole process brings to my awareness the stuck places inside of me, the resistance and lack of daring. It’s complex, right?
Ultimately, I love my creations, whether poetry, prose, painting or crafting. And I often surprise myself with what comes.
Writing Prompt:
Do you prefer your “comfort zone” when it comes to writing or making art? Or do you enjoy the adventure beyond comfort? When you venture past the borders of the familiar, do you experience doubt as to whether or not you can create something that is “successful”? Is that a fair requirement of yourself as you are in this process? And, do you care about what others are going to think? Do you make that more important than staying true to your artist’s journey?
Write your answers to these questions in your writer’s journal. Be truthful with yourself.
