"Becoming" is a philosophical term that stresses the fluid and dynamic character of life. Unlike "being," which implies a permanent state, "becoming" refers to the ongoing process of change, growth, and transformation. It expresses the concept that nothing is ever completely static; everything is always changing and growing with time and experience.
In terms of personal and creative growth, "becoming" can be defined as the process of self-discovery and reinvention. It is about accepting the constant process of learning, adapting, and evolving rather than attempting to achieve a fixed, unchanging state. This philosophy encourages us to view life and creativity as ever-changing, with each event, struggle, or creation being a stride in our ongoing evolution.
For artists, "becoming" is particularly important. It represents the progression of one's trade, vision, and self-expression. Rather than striving for a singular, unchanging identity or style, an artist who embraces "becoming" is open to experimentation, development, and the inevitable changes that occur with age and experience. This viewpoint allows for a more fluid, organic evolution of art, with each piece being a snapshot of the artist's current state of being.
In essence, "becoming" refers to the journey rather than the end. It is the recognition that we are always evolving, and that this process is what gives life and art its richness and depth.
By embracing "becoming," artists may focus on the journey rather than the destination, considering each piece as part of a continuous inquiry. This perspective promotes openness to transition, allowing artists to completely rework their approach or experiment with new forms of expression without being unduly tied to a fixed creative identity. It also allows artists to more accurately depict the dynamic aspect of the environment in their work, perhaps tackling topics such as transformation, cycles, or impermanence. Ultimately, the notion of "becoming" creates a lifelong learning attitude in artists, encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and viewing artistic mastery as a continuing path with no end point. This approach can result in deeper, more dynamic creative expression that changes with the artist's personal and artistic development.
The Artist’s Journey – Always in Flux
An artist’s work can be likened to a barometer of their soul, constantly shifting to reveal the nuanced interplay of emotions—be it turmoil, serenity, or a complex amalgamation of feelings—that the artist experiences over time. Just as individuals evolve from their often regrettable adolescent identities, so too does an artist’s work transform as they grow, learn, and accumulate life experiences.
Take Pablo Picasso as a case in point. Rather than adhering to a single artistic style, Picasso underwent a series of distinct phases, each reflective of his evolving internal landscape. For instance, his Blue Period, characterized by somber tones of blue and gray, mirrors a period of personal sorrow and financial hardship. These works are not merely expressions of artistic skill but are deeply intertwined with Picasso’s emotional and existential state at the time. A few years later, this melancholic palette gave way to the fragmented, dynamic forms of Cubism, signaling a significant shift in Picasso’s worldview and aesthetic sensibilities. This transition was not just a stylistic choice but a profound expression of his growing philosophical engagement with the complexities of perception and reality.
Similarly, David Bowie stands as a quintessential example of artistic metamorphosis within the music industry. Bowie's career, marked by a series of transformative personas—from Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke and beyond—serves as a testament to his continual evolution as an artist. These personas were not merely superficial alterations for commercial appeal but rather manifestations of Bowie’s psychological, emotional, and creative states at different points in his life. When he inhabited the otherworldly, flamboyant persona of Ziggy Stardust, it reflected his inner sense of drama and theatricality. Conversely, the Berlin Trilogy, with its more introspective and austere tones, emerged during a period of personal darkness and artistic reinvention. Bowie’s body of work is thus a mirror to his inner transformation, much like a cosmic disco ball refracting the light of his continually evolving self.
Even contemporary musicians, such as Kanye West, exhibit a similar trajectory of artistic evolution. Kanye’s early work, epitomized by The College Dropout, is marked by its soulful, chipmunk-sampled beats and themes of ambition, struggle, and resilience—reflecting his aspirations and hunger as an emerging artist. This album serves as a window into Kanye’s mindset during his rise in the music industry, capturing the drive that propelled him forward.
As Kanye’s life became more complex, so too did his music, evolving in tandem with his personal and professional experiences. By the time we reach Yeezus, it is as if Kanye deliberately discarded the conventional frameworks that had previously guided his work. The album is raw, abrasive, and unfiltered, conveying his unvarnished thoughts and emotions with a confrontational intensity. This stark departure from his earlier style is not merely a shift in musical aesthetics but a deeper reflection of his internal state at that juncture—one marked by both turmoil and self-assured defiance.
Regardless of whether one admires or critiques his work, Kanye’s music remains a candid mirror of his life, continuously changing and developing in response to his evolving circumstances. Each album is not just a collection of songs but a chapter in his ongoing narrative, revealing the complexities of his identity and the challenges he faces as both an artist and an individual. Through this lens, Kanye’s discography can be understood as a dynamic expression of his inner world, always in flux, yet persistently striving to articulate the multifaceted nature of his existence.
Philosophically, the evolution of an artist’s work can be seen as a dialogue between the self and the external world, mediated through the creative process. This dynamic interplay suggests that art is not merely a static product but a living, evolving entity that embodies the artist’s ongoing search for meaning and understanding. It challenges the notion of a fixed identity, proposing instead that both the artist and their work are in a state of perpetual becoming, influenced by the fluidity of life itself.
Embracing Uncertainty and Growth
The fear of creative stagnation is a persistent concern that haunts many artists, like a shadowy presence threatening to extinguish their creative spark. This anxiety—the worry that inspiration might one day dissipate, leaving their work stale and uninspired—is a common struggle. However, this fear, while understandable, can also serve as a powerful driving force, propelling artists forward when they embrace the concept of "becoming."
"Becoming" invites artists to view themselves not as static entities but as ever-evolving works in progress. It encourages a mindset that welcomes uncertainty and change as integral components of the creative process, rather than something to be feared. Embracing the idea of continual transformation, artists are urged to lean into the unknown, recognizing that the most compelling art often emerges from experimentation, risk-taking, and a willingness to explore uncharted territories.
Consider Vincent van Gogh as a paradigm of this concept. Throughout his life, van Gogh was plagued by profound self-doubt and a fear of inadequacy, concerned that his work would never meet the standards he aspired to. Yet, rather than allowing these fears to paralyze him, van Gogh channeled them into a relentless pursuit of artistic growth. His early works, characterized by dark and muted tones, eventually gave way to the vibrant colors and dynamic brushstrokes that define his later masterpieces. Had van Gogh succumbed to the fear of change and clung to his initial somber palette, the world might never have witnessed the brilliance of Starry Night, a work that has since become a symbol of artistic inspiration and emotional depth.
Similarly, Bob Dylan confronted the fear of alienating his audience—a fear that many artists grapple with when considering a departure from their established style. In the 1960s, Dylan was revered as a voice of his generation, known for his acoustic folk music and politically charged lyrics. However, Dylan, ever the restless creator, grew anxious about being confined to a single genre. His decision to "go electric" at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965 was met with immediate backlash, as fans expressed outrage at what they perceived as a betrayal of his roots. Despite this, Dylan's embrace of change, driven by a desire to avoid stagnation, enabled him to expand his artistic horizons, ultimately solidifying his legacy as a musician unafraid to defy expectations and push the boundaries of his craft.
Contemporary artists like Radiohead also exemplify the concept of "becoming" by confronting the fear of creative stagnation head-on. After the monumental success of OK Computer, the band could have easily continued producing similar anthemic rock albums, capitalizing on their established sound. However, the band members were acutely aware of the dangers of predictability. Instead of resting on their laurels, they embarked on a radical shift with Kid A, an album that departed dramatically from their previous work by incorporating electronic music and abstract lyrics. This bold move, though risky, underscored their commitment to artistic evolution and secured their reputation as one of the most innovative bands of their era.
The philosophy of "becoming" encourages artists to reinterpret their fears not as barriers but as catalysts for growth. Stagnation, it suggests, occurs only when one ceases to evolve, experiment, and challenge oneself. By embracing the unknown and allowing themselves to transform, artists can ensure that their work remains vibrant, relevant, and true to their ever-changing selves. While the risk of failure is always present, it is precisely this risk that injects vitality into the creative process. After all, no groundbreaking work of art has ever emerged from a place of complacency. Embracing the thrill of uncertainty, artists can push the limits of their creativity, achieving heights they might never have imagined possible.
Strategies For Growth
Maintaining creative vitality and avoiding stagnation is a perpetual challenge for artists, but there are numerous strategies that can help sustain growth and innovation. Here are some practical approaches to ensure continuous artistic evolution:
1. Experiment with New Mediums
Rationale: Engaging with a new medium forces the artist out of their comfort zone, sparking creativity by introducing unfamiliar tools, techniques, and challenges. Whether transitioning from painting to sculpture, acoustic to electronic music, or digital to traditional art, exploring different mediums can unlock new modes of expression.
Example: A painter might experiment with digital art, leveraging the differences in tools and techniques while applying core principles of composition and color theory. This could result in a unique hybrid style that integrates elements of both mediums.
2. Learn New Techniques
Rationale: Acquiring new techniques can rejuvenate an artist’s approach to their work by providing fresh methods and perspectives. This could range from learning a new brush stroke, mastering a different software, or adopting an alternative approach to structuring a song or story.
Example: A musician might explore a new DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or delve into a different genre, adding depth to their sound. Visual artists could attend workshops on techniques like printmaking or encaustic painting, potentially leading to unexpected dimensions in their work.
3. Collaborate with Other Artists
Rationale: Collaboration can be a powerful catalyst for creativity, as it exposes the artist to different styles, perspectives, and skill sets. Working with others challenges habitual ways of thinking and creating, often leading to innovative outcomes.
Example: A writer could partner with a visual artist to create a graphic novel, blending narrative and imagery in novel ways. Musicians might collaborate with visual artists on a concept album, with the artwork enhancing the music’s narrative. The fusion of talents often produces results neither artist could achieve alone.
4. Engage in Cross-Disciplinary Learning
Rationale: Inspiration often comes from outside one’s primary field of work. Learning about disciplines such as science, history, or even culinary arts can inspire new approaches and ideas in one’s art.
Example: A filmmaker might draw on concepts from quantum physics to experiment with non-linear storytelling. A painter might study botany, incorporating detailed plant structures into their work. These interdisciplinary influences can lead to innovative and unique artistic expressions.
5. Set Creative Challenges or Limitations
Rationale: Imposing constraints can paradoxically enhance creativity by forcing the artist to think innovatively within those boundaries. Setting specific challenges, such as creating daily art for a month or using only a limited color palette, can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
Example: Visual artists might create an entire series using a single medium like charcoal or ink. Musicians might challenge themselves to compose and record a song within a tight deadline or with a limited set of instruments.
6. Participate in Artistic Communities or Groups
Rationale: Being part of an artistic community provides a platform for support, feedback, and inspiration. It connects the artist to a broader context, allowing them to see their work from different perspectives.
Example: Joining a local art collective, participating in open mic nights, or engaging in online forums centered around one’s medium can offer valuable exchange of ideas and constructive feedback, fostering continuous growth.
7. Travel and Seek New Experiences
Rationale: Exposure to new environments and experiences can rejuvenate an artist’s creativity. Travel—whether distant or local—can introduce fresh perspectives and ideas.
Example: An artist might explore unfamiliar museums or galleries, or a musician might attend concerts in genres they are less familiar with. Such experiences can infuse their work with new ideas and inspirations.
8. Reflect and Revisit Old Work
Rationale: Growth can also come from introspection. Revisiting older works with a fresh perspective can inspire new directions or improvements, revealing themes or techniques worth exploring further.
Example: Writers might rework an old poem or story, infusing it with new insights gained over time. Visual artists could revisit an earlier series, potentially developing a sequel or an updated version with enhanced skills and concepts.
By adopting these strategies, artists can sustain their creative momentum, circumvent the dangers of stagnation, and continue their journey of artistic "becoming." Growth is not solely about moving forward; it involves exploring diverse paths, embracing risks, and remaining open to the endless possibilities within the artistic process. The willingness to experiment, learn, and engage with new ideas is what keeps art vibrant and ever-evolving.
Failures and setbacks often play the role of villains in the narrative of creativity—looming threats that challenge our confidence and make us question our path. But what if we reimagined these obstacles as essential allies in our creative journey, catalysts for growth rather than roadblocks?
The Role of Failure in Becoming
Failure is an uninvited but necessary guest in the creative process. While we might wish to avoid it, failure forces us to confront our weaknesses, challenge our assumptions, and push past our limitations. This uncomfortable process is where true growth occurs. Without failure, there would be no need to innovate, adapt, or refine our methods.
Consider Thomas Edison, who famously reframed his numerous failed attempts to create a functional light bulb as steps toward success: "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Edison’s resilience and willingness to embrace failure were crucial to his ultimate achievement. Each setback wasn’t a failure but a necessary step closer to the right solution. If he had given up early, our world might still be lit by candlelight, and the concept of perseverance would have a lesser hero.
Setbacks, like failures, are often opportunities disguised as disappointments. They tend to arise when we push beyond our comfort zones, attempting something new or ambitious. When a project doesn’t meet our expectations, it’s easy to dismiss it as a failure. However, these moments are fertile ground for learning and growth.
Take J.K. Rowling’s journey with Harry Potter. Before the series became a global sensation, she faced rejection from twelve publishers. Rather than seeing these rejections as proof of her inadequacy, Rowling persisted, and those very setbacks became integral to her story of triumph. Her experience illustrates that setbacks don’t diminish our value—they build our resilience and fortify our determination.
The journey of becoming—whether as an artist, writer, musician, or any other creative—is inherently messy. It’s marked by false starts, wrong turns, and occasional disasters. But these aren’t signs of failure; they are evidence of experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. Each failure and setback is a critical piece of the puzzle, contributing to the complex and evolving process of mastering one’s craft. Vincent van Gogh, for example, sold only one painting during his lifetime. Despite this, he created over 2,000 works of art, many of which are now considered masterpieces. His career was fraught with setbacks—financial hardships, mental health struggles, and lack of recognition—but his perseverance and dedication to his craft allowed him to evolve continually. His failures weren’t the end of his story; they were the crucibles in which his genius was forged.
One of the most valuable aspects of failures and setbacks is the opportunity they provide for reinvention. When something doesn’t work out, it’s an invitation to pivot, try a new approach, or explore a different direction. These moments can often lead to profound creative breakthroughs. Steve Jobs’ story is a prime example of this. After being fired from the company he co-founded, Jobs could have let this public and painful setback define him. Instead, he used the experience to explore new ventures, ultimately returning to Apple and leading it to unprecedented success. His setback wasn’t a conclusion but a turning point, setting the stage for his greatest achievements.
Failures and setbacks shouldn’t be viewed as insurmountable obstacles but rather as crucial detours that lead to new insights, skills, and opportunities. They remind us that the journey of becoming is not a linear path but a winding road, filled with challenges that test our resolve and reveal our true potential. By embracing failure as a natural and necessary part of the creative process, we can grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient, transforming our missteps into stepping stones toward our ultimate goals.
The concept of "becoming" in creativity isn't about reaching a final destination or earning a title after hitting a certain number of milestones. Instead, it's a continuous, lifelong process—a journey of growth, exploration, and transformation that never truly ends. In the realm of art and creativity, becoming is a dynamic state, an ongoing practice rather than a final achievement.
Becoming as a Lifelong Practice
Early in their careers, many artists dream of that moment when they’ll "arrive"—the point when they’ll have mastered their craft, gained recognition, and feel fully confident in their creative identity. However, the reality is that there’s no magical moment of arrival. Even the most accomplished artists remain on this journey of becoming, continually pushing boundaries, experimenting, and learning with each new work.
Pablo Picasso’s career is a prime example of this. Throughout his life, Picasso transitioned through various phases—each one a significant shift from the previous. From his Blue Period to Cubism, and later, more abstract works, Picasso never settled into a single style. He was always in the process of becoming, constantly reinventing himself. Even as he achieved worldwide acclaim, he continued to evolve, illustrating that becoming is an endless journey.
To practice becoming is to embrace the unknown and be comfortable with uncertainty. It involves recognizing that there’s always more to learn, explore, and discover about yourself and your craft. This openness to change and growth keeps your creative work vibrant and alive.
David Bowie’s career epitomizes this approach. Known for his ability to reinvent himself with each album, Bowie never relied on what had previously worked. He constantly challenged himself, exploring new genres, personas, and ideas. Whether as Ziggy Stardust, the Thin White Duke, or during his Berlin Trilogy, Bowie’s commitment to becoming allowed him to remain relevant and influential throughout his life. His willingness to step into the unknown was key to his enduring legacy.
Curiosity is at the heart of becoming. It’s the driving force that compels artists to ask questions, seek new perspectives, and step beyond their comfort zones. Practicing curiosity means never being fully satisfied with what you already know and always being eager to explore what comes next.
Leonardo da Vinci is a historical figure who exemplifies the practice of curiosity. His insatiable desire to understand the world around him led him to explore a vast array of fields—painting, anatomy, engineering, and more. Da Vinci’s lifelong curiosity enriched his art, with his notebooks brimming with sketches, observations, and ideas that reveal his relentless pursuit of knowledge. He is celebrated not just as a painter but as a symbol of creative genius that transcends any single discipline.
Becoming isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a daily commitment. It’s reflected in the habits you build, the risks you take, and the resilience you develop. It’s about showing up to create, even when inspiration feels distant, trusting that the act of creation itself will lead to growth.
For today’s artists, this practice might involve dedicating a portion of each day to creative work, no matter how small. It could mean experimenting with new techniques, seeking feedback, or allowing yourself the freedom to play and explore without the pressure of perfection. This daily commitment to becoming ensures that your creative journey remains one of constant evolution.
While there’s no definitive finish line in the process of becoming, there is a profound reward: the realization that you are continually growing, evolving, and deepening your connection to your art. This lifelong practice keeps your work dynamic and your passion alive, allowing you to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of creativity with grace. Every phase, experiment, and failure becomes a vital part of the journey.
In the end, becoming isn’t about reaching a certain level of mastery or achieving a specific goal. It’s about embracing the process itself, acknowledging that you are always in a state of growth. The journey of becoming is what makes the creative life so rich, fulfilling, and endlessly exciting.
Conclusion
The journey of becoming is a lifelong practice that invites us to continually grow, evolve, and explore new horizons in our artistic pursuits. It's not about reaching a final destination or achieving a singular moment of success, but rather embracing the ongoing process of transformation. This practice challenges us to confront our fears, learn from our failures, and remain curious, open to the possibilities that each new day brings.
As artists, our work reflects the ever-changing landscape of our inner world. By committing to the process of becoming, we ensure that our creativity remains dynamic and vibrant, a true expression of who we are at any given moment. This journey may be filled with uncertainty and setbacks, but it is also rich with opportunities for growth and discovery.
In the end, becoming is about more than just creating art—it's about becoming the fullest version of ourselves, both in our craft and in our lives. It's a journey without a finish line, but one that promises endless possibilities and the continual unfolding of our creative potential. So, let's embrace the process, celebrate our progress, and keep moving forward, knowing that the journey itself is the true masterpiece.
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