Chaotic, complex, unpredictable creativity

Weather is like art. It’s chaotic, complex and unpredictable, influenced by networks of interacting variables. A butterfly, a volcanic eruption, can unleash unforeseen consequences. This unpredictability is part of the adventure and excitement of art. You never know where the creative journey will lead you.

Where are our souls?

Dan Rabothan posed this question when I asked for prompts to inspire a creative journey. It has sent me down a fascinating rabbit hole of branching questions; 

• Where would you look for a soul?
• What is it?
• Does it even exist?
• Why do people use expressions like ‘it’s good for the soul’, even if they don’t believe in a god?

The Universe as a mind

Along the way, I discovered panpsychism, the view that everything from an atom to our entire universe has a mind, consciousness and therefore, its own experience. Imagine if the device you’re reading on is conscious. What would it experience, compared to you? Could we ever relate?

Discovering the creative soul

I bought a copy of Paul Ham’s ‘The Soul‘. It’s a meaty read, packed with philosophical concepts, intriguing ideas and multicultural worldviews. Paul outlines the concepts of the ‘religious soul’ and the ‘creative soul’. The creative soul is your sense of aesthetics. It allows you to connect with and be moved by a piece of music, a poem or an artwork.

How do you nourish your creative soul?

Your creative soul is the spark that ignites your imagination, driving you to create. It’s part of your being. You nourish it whenever you;

• Surround yourself with inspiration: books, plays, poetry, music, art and positive people.
• Find moments of awe: experience a natural spectacle like an ocean of stars or the play of light on water.
• Engage in creative acts: doodle, sketch a business plan, daydream, crack a joke.
• Reflect in solitude: allow yourself the opportunity to connect with yourself. Listen and talk to your soul.

What do you say to your soul?

This year, I’m inviting people to share their mantras. These mantras will serve as inspiration for a series of unique drawings. Your mantras will inspire me and hopefully, each other.

I have no idea how many drawings I’ll create, where the exhibition might be held, or what will come out of this project. The beauty is in its unpredictability.

Curious souls are invited

I’d love for you to be a part of this journey. If you’re curious, you can learn more.

And if you know another curious soul, please share this with them.