“Everyone is born creative; everyone is given a box of crayons in kindergarten. Then when you hit puberty they take the crayons away and replace them with dry, uninspiring books on algebra, history, etc. Being suddenly hit years later with the ‘creative bug’ is just a wee voice telling you, ‘I’d like my crayons back, please.’”
Hugh MacLeod, Ignore Everybody: and 39 Other Keys to Creativity
I just love that final sentence "...a wee voice telling you "I'd like my crayons back, please".
It's like we have this quiet yearning to return to where we know our heart really lies; to return to things that makes us feel good; that give us joy.
I am certainly not one of those who was artistic at school; who did art, who drew in an art journal. I was sporty and nerdy and diligent at the basics - maths, English, languages and science. So in a way, I feel I am maybe one of the returning tribe - who felt that tug, the pull to make something beautiful and who listened to the quiet voice inside inviting me to return to my crayons...
Hugh MacLeod, Ignore Everybody: and 39 Other Keys to Creativity
I just love that final sentence "...a wee voice telling you "I'd like my crayons back, please".
It's like we have this quiet yearning to return to where we know our heart really lies; to return to things that makes us feel good; that give us joy.
I am certainly not one of those who was artistic at school; who did art, who drew in an art journal. I was sporty and nerdy and diligent at the basics - maths, English, languages and science. So in a way, I feel I am maybe one of the returning tribe - who felt that tug, the pull to make something beautiful and who listened to the quiet voice inside inviting me to return to my crayons...
fiona, creativity is there, no matter who you were (i was in the art room or outside, or home if i could be, despite being a good student). i think it's a shame that drawing skills aren't taught right along with math and language...
ReplyDeleteI think our education for all people would be enhanced by more art in the system (but I know the system is filling up with all sorts) but art does help you express feelings and respond to things; and to see differently, all of which are mighty helpful in the real world don't you think?!?!?
DeleteThis makes me think of Oliver's plaintive, "Please sir, I'd like some more." And your picture evokes the giddy joy I felt upon opening up my first box of Inktense pencils.
ReplyDeleteThanks, too for the lead on Hugh MacLeod ... I've put a hold on it at the library.
Hope you enjoy Liz! And yes - it is a wee plaintive cry for more isn't it? Go well.
Deletewhat a great photo, you have the most beautiful sense of line and colour
ReplyDeleteThank you Mo - they are most delicious aren't they? : )
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