Fostering Creativity: another perspective.

How many times have people come into my studio and said they are not creative? I suggest that. people need to see that creativity comes in many forms—not just painting or writing, but problem-solving, organizing, cooking, or even decorating a space. I point out examples from their daily life, like finding a clever solution to a problem, improvising a meal with random ingredients, or thinking of a thoughtful gift for someone.

Many people feel they aren’t creative because they compare their results to others. If we can shift the focus to enjoying the act of creating and exploring ideas, emphasising the process rather than the product, then we can begin to focus on each person’s unique experiences and perspectives that inform creativity. We draw inspiration from their stories and passions and their contributions add value to ours.

The joyful process!

When we understand that creativity isn’t always artistic, that it includes analytical thinking, innovation, and even resourcefulness, we can expand our idea of creativity to include everyone. Acknowledging this builds confidence and an ability to think outside the box! Creativity flourishes when given the right environment, encouragement, and tools. Here are some ways to nurture it:

1. Embrace curiosity. Start asking "Why?" and "What if?" Encourage exploration of new ideas, concepts, and perspectives, even if they seem unconventional at first. Seek inspiration everywhere, visit museums or art galleries to explore shapes, textures, and historical influences. Observe architecture or nature for patterns and color combinations. Follow fashion trends and staying open to niche aesthetics.

2. Create a safe space. Allow room for failure and experimentation without judgment. Creativity thrives when people feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of criticism. Create a space where you can be quiet, play, experiment and make mistakes. And create an inner space that allows you to expand your ideas and think outside the box.

My safe place!

3. Mix up influences. Look outside your usual sources for inspiration—whether it's art, nature, technology, or even a different culture. Exposure to diverse ideas can spark innovative thinking. Keep a design journal to jot down ideas or create rough sketches. Take photographs and make collages of anything you find interesting or stirs your curiosity.

4. Practice divergent thinking. Brainstorm and generate as many ideas as possible, even seemingly "wild" ones. Then narrow them down to the most promising ones to refine and improve. Push Boundaries, break symmetry intentionally or incorporate movement, such as dangling or spinning elements in your designs. Experiment with scale by creating oversized statement pieces or delicate minimalistic designs.

5.Engage in play. Sometimes letting loose and engaging in playful activities (like puzzles, games, or doodling) can unlock creative solutions. Try out different textures, metals, colours, anything that interests and inspires you. Dive into storytelling, each piece could represent a personal or universal theme.

6. Collaborate.Exchange ideas and collaborate with artists or designers from other fields for fresh perspectives. Different perspectives can lead to unexpected connections and breakthroughs. Study the work of renowned designers for techniques and inspiration, while ensuring your creations remain uniquely yours. Look at Instagram and Pinterest. Take workshops to explore and learn new techniques. Developing creativity in jewelry design is all about tapping into inspiration, experimenting, and honing your unique style. Share prototypes with trusted friends or mentors and refine your designs based on their feedback.

Examples of items that inspire me!

@janecharlesstudioglass: @volkov.jewelry : @seamusgillsilversmith

7.Reflect and recharge. Take time for solitude and reflection—it can help process thoughts and inspire new ideas. Similarly, rest and relaxation often bring clarity. Reflect on past projects to identify what worked and where you could improve. Above all, stay curious and focus on innovation! Designing jewellery involves art and engineering! The joy, when you have embraced curiosity, experimented, brainstormed, created prototypes, asked for feedback,and finally create a new piece of jewellery, is sublime!