Embracing Creativity in Everyday Life Beyond Traditional Boundaries

People often tell me they wish they could be as creative as I am, but they are indeed creative, just in different ways. Every idea originates from something you've seen or heard, processed by your brain, whether you're conscious of it or not.

What surprises me is that many people think being creative means being an artist, which isn't true. You could be a writer, a painter, or a home designer, roles that require creativity. However, if you ever find yourself in a new situation needing a quick solution, you might be the one to come up with it, even if you don't see yourself as a creative person.

Many 'artists' use reference images or draw inspiration from others' work or the world around them. Hardly any art today is completely original if we're talking about a brand-new idea that's never been seen before. I remember as a child, I was given an exercise to challenge my creative writing. I received a picture of an abandoned building as a prompt and crafted a story about two girls who were transported to the past when the building was a school for children their age. I don't recall much else of what I wrote, but I still remember the picture and the lesson I learned. It's okay to use inspiration, and it's okay not to know what to write or draw about; that blank page can be the most intimidating part.

An AI rendition of the prompt image. It deffinatley had a much spookier feel.

I say all this without even mentioning fiber arts. I mostly use free patterns, and I'm so grateful to those who invest time and effort into creating patterns I can use. But guess what? They are just a starting point. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to let your imagination run wild and do something a bit different, to colour outside the lines, if you will.

All this to say, I want to acknowledge those who don't believe they possess creativity. Art is everywhere and comes in so many forms. Yes, we have traditional drawing and painting, but have you noticed the architecture around you? That new outfit you've put together is also a form of art. Anything that sparks excitement or thought is a form of art.