Creativity?

A unique or original solution to a problem or challenge.

Creativity is a cognitive skill that can be learned and practiced to enhance our human potential and quality of life.

Creativity and original thought: a process with 4 distinct stages.

These stages flow from one to another but time is relative.

I3 V this is a mnemonic device to remember

the creativity development pattern. Three I’s followed by one V for the acronym to the stages of creativity. Let’s explore them with artist Claude Monet.

Who was Claude Monet? 1840-1926

Monet paints what he sees. Inspired by vistas.

Looking out his window of his manor he sees haystacks on the French countryside.

He becomes fascinated with the moods of the haystacks as they change throughout the seasons.

His challenge? How to capture the essence of the haystacks?

I1= INVESTIGATION

The problem/challenge is identified and defined.

He begins the process of thinking about what he wants to do.

I2 =INCUBATION

The problem is mulled over and explored.

Before he begins to paint he creates sketches in his book.

I3

= INSPIRATION- the Aha! Moment: Series Paintings.

White Frost Sunrise 1889

End of Summer, Morning 1891

V = VERIFICATION

Original thought 46:15 in movie

Other forms of creativity. River’s Biology: case study.

Music and Creativity: Listening and appreciating jazz music is sort of a skill

as it can be difficult to follow if you never have tried to listen to it before.

The thing that makes jazz really interesting to hear is that as you listen

you can share in the artistic “Aha moment” of their discovery during the

improvisational solos. Let’s try it!

John Scofield explores new music in an old format. Uber Jam.

Let’s try it: Offspring by John Scofield Standard Jazz format

Introduction usually brief. Head= main musical idea or melody. Bridge a musical transition from one idea to another. In pop

music it connects verse to chorus. In jazz it will connect sections typically back to the Head. Scofield has a unique/creative idea in this section of his music done with sampling and computers.

Improvisation-talking/musical storytelling through the instrument and exploration of the musical themes. Here John Scofield explores the ideas brought to him by the music of the main idea.

Bridge (transitions the solo back to the head.) Computer samples are heard once again.

Head: Once again we hear the musical theme. Conclusion, like the introduction usually brief.

Creativity challenge.