Creativity in a Box

Ernie Schenck authored a good book about the creative struggle against limitations: The Houdini Solution.  It’s a strong concept to which I whole-heartedly endorse: The heights of your creative force can’t be fully realized until you get push back.  In other words, “Think Inside the Box”.

I wrote an essay “Limit Creativity, Get Innovation” back in ’06 about the same idea.  To quote myself:

“I recollect just enough from algebra 101 to make my neuro-memories retrieve the brain pain of too many variables – x ,y, a, b, c – give me an integer – please – I don’t know what Vanna White sees in those vowels.  The vagueness compelled me to walk clinging to the hallway walls attempting to reconcile formless reality as I struggled to see the patterns.  Orientation needs form and the walls offer structure; something to support yet overcome.”

Another way to think of it is to find a canvas.  Your creative assignment gets easier once defined.  For example, write something creative versus write about a thought you had yesterday, or go out and take pictures versus use this cheap disposable camera to find a great image within 50 feet of where you’re standing. Give your palette limits, then push back.