Artists' Creativity: Planning or Spontaneity?

The question of whether artists think about what they are doing when they create art or if they simply let their instincts guide their work is a common inquiry. It largely depends on the context and the artist's personal approach.

Blending Intuition and Planning

I have found that a balanced approach often works best. For instance, when I engage in doodling for fun, I don’t overly think about what I am doing. These sessions are more like a warm-up before engaging in a more structured art project. They help me get into a creative mindset, just as a warm-up might help before a physical activity.

However, when creating a piece with a specific theme, I often make use of reference photos to sketch out my ideas. Sometimes, I can start without them, but even then, I always do a basic sketch. Despite my initial plans, my final piece often evolves and veers from what I initially envisioned. I noticed that the creative process itself can reveal new paths and directions that lead to unexpected but more fulfilling results.

Beyond Spontaneity: The Intellectual Aspect of Creativity

It's important to note that even when artists appear to be 'letting go,' there is still a significant amount of thought and planning involved. Many non-artists mistakenly believe that creativity and artistic expression are the result of abandoning one's intellect. This notion is particularly prevalent in the arts, but it could not be further from the truth.

Every form of art involves a degree of freedom and flexibility, but there is also a meticulous process behind the scenes. For example, while an impressionist may paint in a more free-form manner, an architect must follow precise principles and guidelines to ensure their work is both artistic and functional. Even in the seemingly spontaneous lines of a drawing, there are decisions made spontaneously, such as making a line thicker to create a strong silhouette, or adding tiny lines to represent glare on a window.

Variable Styles and Mindsets

The balance between planning and spontaneity can vary greatly depending on the artist and the type of art they produce. An impressionist might rely more on their intuition, while an architect requires a high degree of planning and rational thought. However, there is a significant degree of freedom in most art forms, even if it's expressed in subtle ways.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how artists create. Some plan meticulously from start to finish, while others are entirely spontaneous. Many artists find a sweet spot in between, blending both elements to create their unique artistic expressions.

Art creation is a complex and multifaceted process that involves both structured planning and intuitive spontaneity. Whether an artist is engaging in unplanned doodling or working through the intricacies of a detailed piece, their approach is as diverse as the art they create.