Posted by creativeaging on November 26, 2007
David Galenson writes that “many innovations spring not from their creators’ innate talent, but from their years of accumulated knowledge” (in “5 Myths about Art, Age and Genius”). That makes Galenson an advocate of creative aging in many ways since he contrasts, favorably I might add, the work of young geniuses and old masters. It seems he is thinking along the lines of Gene Cohen and his definition of creativity:
Creative Expression=(Mass of Knowledge)(Internal Life Experience*External Life Experience)
And for those of us who don’t remember algebra, Cohen explains:
When we look at all the elements and influences regarding creativity, what seems to matter most are sufficient knowledge or mastery of an area; motivation and perspiration or the willingness to do; some intangible that are part of the human condition, such as intuition and insight; and the capacity to be inspired (The Creative Age, page 38).
So Galenson’s comment “keep that in mind when you head to an art museum” may be true in even more ways than he knows.
Posted in creativity | Tagged: age, aging, art, creative aging, David Galenson, Dr. Gene Cohen, genius | No Comments »
Posted by creativeaging on November 17, 2007
NATURAL!
Why does our society fight aging so strongly?
Except for some unforeseen tragedy, we will all grow older, and (hopefully) become wiser. We will learn from our experiences and share our life lessons with children and grandchildren. As elders, we will pass down the traditions of our families. Elders are the keepers of our culture. Here in the South that’s important in many ways. Southern charm and hospitality! Keeping our culture doesn’t mean disregarding the influx of immigrants and refugees. Americans, after all, are not originally FROM America. We continue to be the melting pot of the world and what a wonderful opportunity to learn, experience, and share cultural perspectives. America could learn from other nationalities how to better treat our elders… how to revere and respect them… keep them in our communities. Aging is natural. Why do so many Americans think it is negative?
Posted in aging | Tagged: aging, America, culture, immigrants, South, youth | No Comments »
