I was once a child, full of wonder and curiosity, dreaming of a life filled with adventure and colour. Now, in my mid-30s, I find myself in a rut, my days blending into a monotonous routine. The spark that once ignited my creativity seems to have dimmed, and I find myself longing for the playful energy of my youth. But is it possible to rekindle that spark? Can I, like Austin Kleon, find my way back to a life of creativity and joy? This is the question that drives my exploration of Kleon's work and his book, 'Don't Call It Art'.
Kleon, a renowned author and creativity guru, has a unique approach to creativity. He believes in the power of play and the importance of being a beginner again. His book is not a structured guide to self-discovery, but rather a creative 'booster shot' designed to inspire and motivate. Kleon's journey to creativity was not a linear one; it was a result of his rural upbringing and a desire to express himself. He found his path by embracing the unknown and allowing himself to be a beginner.
I, like many adults, have fallen into the trap of expecting to know what I'm doing. This awareness has led to stagnation and a lack of creativity. Kleon's challenge to me is to become a beginner again, to explore and play without the weight of my adult expectations. He encourages me to make time for play, to create a dedicated space for myself, and to embrace the silliness of it all. He suggests that by doing so, I can unlock a new level of creativity and joy.
I decide to take Kleon's advice and create a 'play area' in my bedroom. I clear the desk, imagining it as a space for creativity and self-expression. However, I find myself struggling to embrace the silliness of it all. I feel self-conscious and unsure of what to create. Kleon's suggestion of wearing a silly apron to signal to my brain that it's playtime helps me overcome this hurdle. I begin to explore, using newspapers and permanent markers to create 'blackout poems' and draw scenes from my travels. The process is liberating and engaging, a welcome break from the digital world.
Kleon's advice to find what I truly love and invest in my passions resonates with me. He encourages me to embrace my individual taste and interests, to follow my curiosity, and to let go of the sameness of the online world. I decide to explore ancient Egypt, a childlike special interest, and discover a room I didn't know I had. Kleon's belief in the importance of play and curiosity is a powerful reminder that we need to nurture these aspects of ourselves to keep our spirits alive.
In conclusion, Austin Kleon's 'Don't Call It Art' is a call to action for all of us to embrace our inner child and rekindle the spark of creativity. By becoming beginners again, making time for play, and embracing our passions, we can unlock a new level of joy and self-expression. It's time to let go of the expectations and embrace the silliness, for it is in this space that we can truly find our creativity and joy.
