Creativity = Natural

Exploring the connection between Tibetan wisdom and the joy of childlike expression.

In their book "Creative Confidence," David and Tom Kelley mention that there is no equivalent Tibetan word for 'creativity'; the closest approximation is 'natural.'

Geshe Thupten Jinpa, the primary English translator for the Dalai Lama for over two decades, offered the Kelley brothers an intriguing perspective on creativity. Jinpa highlighted the absence of specific words in the Tibetan language for 'creativity' or 'being creative,' with the nearest equivalent being 'natural.'

This insight suggests that one should aim to be more natural to enhance creativity.

You might be wondering why we're discussing two strategic design thought leaders and a Tibetan monk when you subscribed to an illustration newsletter. Allow me to clarify the connection.

Just think back to when we were younger. Before, we were inundated with social and cultural expectations, self-criticism, pressure, and responsibilities. We all played and experimented. We tried things without fear or shame. This is why I love children's art so much. There is so much freedom.

Pablo Picasso is often quoted as saying, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." Even Picasso noticed that children have a natural and uninhibited approach to art. The hard part is maintaining that childlike creativity and freedom.

A few years ago, my parents were moving, and my mom sent me photos of my childhood art before she packed them away.

My childhood art

As I examined my childhood artwork after a long time, I felt overwhelming joy and pride. The confidence in my marks was evident. My work was inspired by the world around me, documenting my family's travels and life. I had no preconceived ideas or notions about style or aesthetics; I was drawing for the sake of drawing.

During a recent conversation with another student in my MA, I realized something important about observational drawing. It is the first thing we do as children, but often the first thing we give up on as we grow older. Unfortunately, we tend to underestimate the value of sketching because we place so much emphasis on the final product.

Sometimes, we feel embarrassed or ashamed to share our drawings, even though they are important to us personally. However, drawing can also help us become more visually confident, which can be incredibly empowering.

This all points to one powerful truth: when we embrace our natural abilities and rediscover the pleasure of simple expression, life can feel more creative for us all.