The Picasso Effect
Artwork by Cleopatra Burgess
2-years old
By writing this article, I am by no means comparing myself or my life to that of Pablo Picasso.
The purpose is to reflect on, as well as examine, a selection of Picasso’s most famous quotes and principles for living — and, as an exercise, see how they relate to me specifically as a commercial creative director and an artist (shameless self promotion: www.boris.ltd).
Do his philosophical insights stand the test of time? Are they still applicable and relatable today? How can I make sense of them?
“I do not seek. I find.”
For me, this is fundamentally about mindset and self-awareness.
It’s important to have an open mind in order to grow and develop as a creative individual. One must be willing to ‘find’ rather than blindly ‘seek’ new inspiration and opportunities.
Yet we are all limited by our own experience and knowledge. Often, I find forcing an idea or a particular agenda into existence leads to lukewarm results.
The more uncomfortable, yet profound, approach can be that of the detached observer: letting things come into your line of sight. In fact, to detach from the humdrum of every day life requires greater self-awareness, humility and, often, a spiritual practice (mindfulness).
Allowing yourself to reorient your point-of-view so that you can see more and hear more can lead to exciting realisations, discoveries and adventures.
Take a step back. Don’t blindly follow the herd. Find the answers on your own.
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist as you grow up.”
I have two young children. When I observe their painting and free play activities, they simply just do it! There’s no self-doubt that’s getting in the way of their enjoyment. Just pure expression and unbridled experimentation.
As we grow and develop, this free-sprinted approach can be dimmed as we interact with society and naturally become more self-conscious. Conformity and creative suppression can creep in easily.
How do we peel back the layers of the onion? How can we relive that fun and uncomplicated state of freedom and experimentation?
It takes practice, deep self-reflection and commitment.
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
You can have great ideas and inspiration, but without hard work and dedication to your craft, it’s nil.
It’s a great reminder of the importance of laying a strong foundation and platform for great work to be produced. It doesn’t come out of the ether. It takes time and dedication to incremental progress and improvement.
In this day and age, we all want results fast. But are we willing to put in the work? Hard work and inspiration need to artfully coexist to develop exciting and creative potentials.