Paste: “Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That’s because they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things. And the reason they were able to do that was that they’ve had more experiences or they have thought more about their experiences than other people... The broader one’s understanding of the human experience, the better design we will have.” Steve Jobs While Jobs’ quote does not really address the challenging parts of the creative process, I love it because it highlights the importance of observation, the very first topic of this series. Art brings joy and meaning; it helps us understand ourselves and our world. It increases critical thinking and communication skills; it encourages decision-making, spatial awareness and inventiveness, and it is correlated with higher academic achievement. This is the last post in our Mixed Media Musings series, and I would like to bookend the series with a few ideas on how to make space in your life with the richness of art. 1. NOTICE. Live with open eyes, keen to notice what’s around you, and take pause to thoughtfully consider. 2. EXPERIENCE. Make concrete notes on artistic pieces or exhibits you’d like to see--gallery openings, movies, musical events--and make it a point to do so. 3. LEARN. Take classes on artistic skills that interest you, and allow your work to mature and develop. 4. WORK WITH YOUR HANDS. Garden, cook, build, woodwork, arrange flowers. 5. CREATE. Contribute to the world of art by making your own. // Thank you so much for joining me for this series. It’s been fun and stretching for me, and I hope it’s been the same for you! I’d love any comments or questions below! // Five “make space” ideas appropriated from michaelhyatt.com.