Artists observe; we offer commentary. We are especially sensitive to changes in the zeitgeist.
So here are some of the things I’ve observed lately...and how I believe creativity can help.
The first layer on my new series, "The Map of the Butterfly." It's nothing but energy right now, but I have a vision for where it's going.
Life on this planet is going to keep getting more stressful for humans. Overpopulation, climate change, mass migrations, water shortages, authoritarian governments. It hurts to think about everything.
We will need creativity to adapt to change, imagine solutions, escape from pain, express feelings, grieve losses, connect with each other, entertain and amuse, and process and document what we’re going through. Whether we paint, write, make music, sculpt, or create worlds, we are contributing to the solution. Creativity is crucial to our survival.
Another one from the series, first layer only.
We are constantly bombarded with information and stimulation. Our devices are designed to kidnap our attention. We are being lulled to sleep with technology and propaganda.
Developing creative skills is a powerful way to combat this lethargy. We connect with the silence. We imagine new worlds. We regain mental and spiritual power. And we reunite fragmented parts of us that need connection in order to thrive in a complex world.
A Photoshop digital sketch for the first painting. The final art may look nothing like this, but this is the initial intention. I never share concepts this soon!
AI is going to become an increasingly disruptive force of change. While it will make many things quicker and more convenient, it will displace human capital on a massive scale. I’ve already lost some client work to AI, so I’m going through yet another technological transformation in my career.
Uniquely human qualities like empathy, creativity, emotions, caring, and critical reasoning will become even more valuable. AI can “create” things instantly—but it cannot identify or capture spiritual essence in art.
So...Creativity! It’s the name of the game for the 21st century. How are you using creative skills in your own life?
Art Heals
The artist Raoul Deal creates powerful illustrative pieces that speak to culture, community, and activism. I found his work through an article about community participation and healing at the Haggarty Museum of Art in Wisconsin. He primarily addresses experiences of immigration and identity, using traditional woodcut techniques to evoke political posters and graphics common to workers' rights.
"Be Purposeful," woodcut by Raoul Deal, about beekeeper and activist Larry Adams.
With Love and Light,
Maggie
PS Whenever you’re ready to start working with me, here are three ways:
2. Do you sense you have some creative masterpiece inside that’s dying to get out? Get access to the program that helps you develop and complete a brilliant series of work that you’re proud to display. Hit reply with the word "Series" and I'll send you more info.
3. Not sure where to begin? Feeling shy, insecure, doubting your path? Schedule a free 30-minute consultation and I’ll ask you the single most important question to help you become the artist you’ve always wanted to be.
