CREATION WORKSHOP
Having ideas and finding solutions are something we do everyday. However, many people believe that being creative is difficult.
The natural creative process is allegedly about inspiration. Flashes apparently come out of nowhere and are captured by a creative person aware enough to sense them.
In reality, there are many other ways to create. One of the alternatives is to find a solution to a specific challenge. First, establish a precise goal you would like to achieve. Through analysis and deduction, it will be possible to come to a creative solution that addresses your distinctive needs.
Here are some examples: writing a press release, designing a room, creating a logo or website, drawing a building, or producing a video. The technique can also be applied to other kinds of projects such as finding a mechanical solution, increasing the efficiency of a process, writing a song, etc.
Let’s consider a process in detail, for instance: Living Room Renovation.
1. Challenge
– Make the room cozy – Turn the space into a listening room – Transform it for reading and friendly socializing
Identify specific needs and write them down in their simplest form. Feel free to insert functions, details, and feelings.
2. Qualities
What personality would you assign to the room? – Warm, colorful, comfortable, inviting, mysterious, convenient, and reassuring. Do not hesitate to write many more modifiers than necessary. Simplification will come later.
3. Brainstorming
– African, Indian or tribal style; entirely red room; maximum use of stone and wood; classical lighting; impressionist artwork; modern and sleek furniture; oriental lamps; plants; etc. Express ideas as they come. Don’t hold back. Quickly switch from one idea to another. Even what appears to be a bad idea should be noted. Depending on the size of the project, several brainstorming sessions might be helpful.
4. Selection
What ideas best fit the defined personality? – Tibetan style, red wall, beige ceiling, lots of wood, masks, statues, and plants. Select the best ideas and validate them with the qualities identified in Step 2. Put aside the weaker ideas. Combine several compatible ideas and single out a few. A creative direction will develop.
5. Production
– Scheduling; selecting suppliers; shopping for materials, furniture, and objects; hiring professionals. Plan a time schedule. Determine what you will do by yourself and what professionals should do. Hire the necessary workers.
Summary of the approach
1. Understand the challenge
2. Identify qualities
3. Brainstorm
4. Select the best ideas
5. Produce
I hope this workshop will help lead to the realization of your creative projects.
François Morin, Art director FRANKOY D.A.