Creative Process

What are the stages of the creative process? Many models exist to illustrate the process which goes on during the act of creativity.

The one I am most familiar with is the Wallas Model.

Preparation
Incubation
Illumination
Verification

Another model which expands further on the process is by Robert Fritz.

Conception
Vision
Current reality
Take action
Adjust, learn, evaluate, adjust
Building momentum
Completion
Living with your creation

If I examine how this plays out in my own life, I would have to say the place I get hung up is adjust, learn, evaluate, adjust. The critical voice has stepped in creating self-doubt. At this point, I am concerned with results, losing touch with the intuitive.

Is a creative block merely our inability to trust in the process? One cannot expect to be inspired at all times. Perhaps when we are unable to create, we may be in the phase of incubation, where much is brewing under the surface. It is a fallacy to think one can be productive at all times, impossible to rush the creative act.

Time for relaxation is just as important as the work itself. It is these moments that give way to incubation of those ideas we want to manifest. What a wondrous feeling, once you have accessed that power. Staying in tune, requires self discipline, continued practise, and being open to new possibilities.

It is my belief, that this is a subconscious process, which cannot be defined during the act of creation. Yet it is worth examining in order to understand ourselves. I find it intriguing. With any luck, I will be able to quell the roadblocks that stand in the way of my authentic painting voice.

What is your creative process?