Creativity, Productivity and The Beginners Mind…

How does one know when they are experiencing a creative block? Does all resistance always translate to ‘creative’ block? See, I have never not been shooting. Even when other areas are not flowing I still make photos. Consequently I never saw myself as ‘creatively blocked.’ And frankly with all the other challenges I’m regularly faced with, I’ve been relieved that at least I don’t have that. That thing that we hear many artists struggling with.

Yet, as I mentioned in my last post, I repeatedly experience movement and disengagement regarding other areas of my work, fine art career. It’s cyclical & unpredictable. Blocked? Yes. But, creatively?? If I’m consistently making art, yet challenged with maintaining momentum on the post-production end, am I blocked ‘creatively’? Or categorically challenged in the area of productivity? And, are these different?? I’m starting to think they are. Productivity is linked to, amongst other things, stamina; while creativity to inspiration. In this case, one speaks to a shortage of resources while the other to connection with source & self. I wonder what Cameron, Pressfield and LaPorte would say? How about you?

 In Buddhist tradition there is a wonderful tenet referred to as beginners mind; where we approach everything as if for the first time. To see the world or at least the task at hand, anew.

“In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” –- Zen Master Shunryo Suzuki.

To that end, I looked back to 2003, when I picked up the camera for the very first time! When there were not yet any expectations, demands nor need to negotiate the stamina to productivity ratio. All was new, all was possible. Here are my very first photos. I never showed them publicly before. Roll #1, frame #1, followed by frame #2 & #3:

While they may not be considered successful photos by any art standards they are prized, pivotal and dare I say, precious, to me! This starting point eventually led to this body of work.

I would love to hear your thoughts & ideas in the comments below. While you’re at it, feel free to share the post by using the social media links below as well. Thanks so much!

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