ANATOMY OF CREATIVITY

      The realm of creativity is available for everyone. The only requirement is to open the mind and listen to what lies beyond the ordinary, to discover the extraordinary in everyday things. Think of the idea of hearing the enchanting music of a bird's song in the tree next to the office window which then might ignites a sensitivity that opens the mind to an endless array of possibilities. Options which may blossom
into a host of different manifestations such as the creation of a graphic piece, a garment, or the dish to be savored during a family lunch.

      A cup cannot be creative because it lacks life. It is the artisan who has delicately shaped the clay, infusing his energy into the creation, transforming it entirely. 

To understand the essence of creativity is to understand the essence of life. One cannot exist without the other. 

This concept is not exclusive to human nature; creativity is also present in the animal and plant kingdoms. Ants construct complex underground nests with tunnels and chambers for specific functions, elephants use branches as tools to scratch themselves or ward off insects, and certain orchids mimic the shape and scent of female insects to attract males and ensure pollination. Survival is ensured through creativity.

Creativity involves taking for granted that beauty is already present in all things and only requires an attentive gaze. Michelangelo², for example, saw the David still contained within a giant block of marble and fervently removed the stone that concealed him. Many accused him of being obsessed, but it was his vision and enthusiasm that made it possible to represent the perfect beauty and values of Renaissance humanism in a sublime way.

      The tailor listens carefully to his client to understand his needs. He imagines his client’s different movements throughout the day and the type of fit that will be most flattering to his client’s anatomical structure. With mastery, he combines this information with his devotion to beauty, creating a custom shirt perhaps, that exquisitely serves that particular person. The shirt is not creative, but the spirit of the person is, and its value lies in the fact that through his hand, he infuses his own experiences, perceptions, and fervor into what is created.

      The chef brings life to his dish through his intention. He uses the color, texture, and aroma of ingredients to create an experience of delight for the diner. Is the key in his hand? Is it his knowledge of food chemistry? Not exactly. The key is his intention, the ability to view the needs of others with compassion and the willingness to create something wonderful for them

      If we are completely honest, we will see that our life is not entirely ours. It is an instrument for service. Something greater than the personal governs our energy fully. We cannot claim ownership of it.
We are only vehicles of its manifestation. Our responsibility is to understand its nature and say “Yes” to life so that it expresses itself through us in what we create in the world. It is not just about material aspects, such as the products we manufacture or the services we provide, but the emotional experience we offer to others. Every word, thought, and action creates an echo in the universe. That is the great gift of creativity and the opportunity for true mastery.