Creativity?

Kirsty's asked for tips for creativity and I must say my first thought is that I'm unqualified to give any hints really...

But it has got me thinking about the things that I find inspiring. I think creativity is only a small step along the pathway from inspiration.

My top inspiration for creativity is definitely the great outdoors.

So my tips (for myself) are:

1. Get outside

2. Open my eyes and look around, camera in hand to assist new ways of seeing.

Then the hardest next step...

3. Allow myself to play.

Worrying about wastage (of time, fabric, money) is not allowed, and that's a challenge for me. Perhaps that's why I like:

Kona Solids (lots of colours for not much $)

scraps and offcuts

and digital cameras (no film or processing costs-no-the computer doesn't count!)

And I try to remind myself...

4. Never mind if it fails, enjoy the process rather than being dependent on the outcome

I've found it helps to make myself a little bit accountable to playing regularly-hence this blog.

Ferns, by Christchurch artist Neil Dawson, installed in Civic Square in Wellington, NZ

Last but not least- Inherent in this process for me is to acknowledge The Creator who couldn't help but be creative...reason enough to value creativity!