Creative thinking is an essential skill for productivity. It helps us to come up with innovative solutions, think outside of the box, and be more productive in our work. With creative thinking, we can find ways to solve problems faster and come up with ideas that are more effective than those of our competitors.
Creative Thinking and the Power of Abstract Art to Inspire New Perspectives
Abstract art is a visual representation of a conceptual subject. When looking at an abstract piece, we do not see a realistically depicted subject, but rather how we perceive these things in a more transcendent light. Abstract art deconstructs the familiarity by which we can see and gives us a depiction that we must interpret. Creative thinking is a natural process of generating new ideas by connecting familiar concepts in new ways.
This can be a challenge for those who are more accustomed to lateral thinking and more contemporary forms of art. Looking at art with a different eye is not an easy thing to achieve – it forces us to look at things differently.
Creative Thinking Unleashed
Eric Kandel, a neuroscientist, explained in his book “Reductionism in Art and Brain Science” that abstract art requires the beholder to problem solve. This will allow the interpretation of the visual stimuli presented in abstract art. For us to find something recognizable we would instinctively look for patterns and identifiable shapes.
When wearing abstract art, your imagination is being exercised. That’s not saying that other forms of art don’t require thinking or imagination. More conventional pieces of art have a passive narrative that is based on things the observer should already know or be able to recognize. Abstract pieces just need more effort in that department.
Creative Thinking and Emotional Intelligence
It is not uncommon to hear people exclaim “I could’ve done that!” after looking at an abstract piece. That is because they see it for what it literally is. Looking at abstract art, you will need to look beyond the seemingly chaotic pieces and think dynamically. After all, when listening to music, we don’t focus too closely on each individual note; we consume the whole song. Perhaps thinking of abstract art as a visual metaphor is less intimidating than a concept.
Abstract art is also a great way to develop emotional thinking and intelligence. Being able to interpret abstract concepts requires you to look deeper than logical thought. Connecting conceptual ideas to emotion can help you to exploit that part of your brain.
FAQs
What is creative thinking?
Creative thinking is a natural process of generating new ideas by connecting familiar concepts in new ways. It helps us to think outside of the box, come up with innovative solutions, and be more productive in our work.
How does abstract art relate to creative thinking?
Abstract art challenges us to look beyond the literal representation and interpret the visual stimuli, requiring problem-solving and engaging our imagination. This process of interpretation can help develop creative thinking skills.
What is the main challenge when interpreting abstract art?
The main challenge is to look at things differently, as abstract art deconstructs familiarity and presents a less straightforward depiction that needs to be interpreted, unlike more conventional forms of art.
How does abstract art help exercise our imagination?
Abstract art requires the beholder to look for patterns and shapes, connecting conceptual ideas to emotion and engaging the imagination. This process is more effortful compared to conventional art, which has a passive narrative.
How can abstract art develop emotional intelligence?
Interpreting abstract art requires us to look deeper than logical thought and connect conceptual ideas to emotion, allowing us to explore and exploit our emotional thinking capabilities. This process can help develop emotional intelligence.
