3 Simple Steps to Thinking Creatively

Children have incredible imaginations and think creatively on a daily basis to build up knowledge of the world around them. Trial and error is natural, and all part of the learning process that happens throughout childhood development. Adults, on the other hand, can get too caught up in precision, concrete ideas, and defined perceptions of how things “should be”.

To be creative, open and flexible thinking is key. Below are 3 steps that should help get your brain thinking in a more creative way. It’s all about viewing things on a less literal level, allowing your imagination to fill the blanks, and considering things from different perspectives. For example, a circle on a paper could represent the sun in the sky, or a the bird’s eye view of a dinner plate. What will it represent for you?

Warm up exercise

Draw a selection of random lines and shapes on a plank piece of paper. Next spend 5 or 10 minutes adding to these. Things to consider — are there connections between them? Are the shapes negative space or objects in themselves? Are there patterns / textures?

Consider everyday objects from new perspectives

A great way to start thinking more creatively is to draw things with which you are very familiar. The twist is that instead of drawing these objects as ‘still life’, draw them as new objects, ones you have adapted. Think differently, think about them from a completely different perspective as you usually would. Do they change in size? Morph in shape? Take on human features? The key to doing this effectively is to create without the constraints of concrete thinking, think flexibly and go with it.

Draw from the mind’s eye

Instead of thinking about what is in front of you and around you, think about what you would like to be there. Draw that. Use your imagination, consider all the possibilities that will allow the thoughts in your head to be brought to life on the paper before you. Be spontaneous and create!

Helen Redman’s art can be found on Instagram and Twitter and on her website www.hcrart.com