February: Out of Our Minds
It is not unusual for people in Wisconsin to be “out of their minds” by the time February arrives. We can be a bit stir-crazy from being stuck in the house because of cold or bad weather. So it is fitting that the title of the book I read for the Artful Readers Club this month was “Out of Our Minds: Learning to be Creative” by Sir Ken Robinson. Last fall I heard the author speak on UW campus in Madison as part of the Science Festival and was fascinated by his views regarding education and creativity. There was so much that I could relate to as a Certified Zentangle Teacher.
The book itself is relatively short; 286 pages before the endnotes (which this book was probably the only time I ever read any book notations). However, the length of the book did not mean it was a quick read, at least not for me. It was not a difficult read but one that had so many though provoking ideas and stories that I spent a significant amount of time rereading parts and digesting ideas and how they relate to things in my life.
The main theme of the book is why creativity is needed to compete in the world economy and how our current education system is not developing students with the skills to access their creative abilities. The focus on standardized testing and what is considered the “academic” disciplines has limited the inclusion of the arts in schools. The book includes several examples of ways that businesses and schools are working to address these issues. There has been an increase of college educated youth entering the work force but the difficulty that these people are having trying to find employment is another indication of education needs that are not being met. Overall, I think the book is an excellent read (although I did rate it a three out of five on GoodReads) but did feel a bit redundant at times. The information contained in the book has been helpful as I am currently having many discussions with my oldest son, who just turned 16, about college planning and identifying where his passions lie. I think the following quote from the book sums up the author’s views:
“Education is not a linear process of preparation for the future: it is about cultivating the talents and sensibilities through which we can live our best lives in the present and create the future for ourselves.”
My artwork is the first of a new series of Zentangle Inspired Art that I am planning. It is based on the Chinese proverb, “An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break.” I felt that it also represented the relationship that is needed between all types of learning for an individual to achieve a full life.
This proverb is also used by The Red Thread Project®, which celebrates community connections, both visible and invisible, while encouraging and fostering individual creativity. It is community art made by the community for the community. Hundreds of youths and adults knit and crochet hats; attach the hats to a ½ mile long knitted red thread; wear the hats in a simple performance / dance; exhibit the hats and, finally, donate the hats to local charities including those assisting cancer patients, foster children, the elderly and the homeless.
Maz H
April 6, 2013 4:35 amAlthough not the sort of book I’d normally read, I love that you got something out of it and it’s inspired such a great piece of art, as well as helping with all those discussions about the future!
Sarah
March 6, 2013 8:16 amI was primarily educated in and have always worked in a very left brain field – mathematics – and so people are sometimes very surprised to find out that I enjoy creative pursuits aswell. I very much believe that a bit of both is necessary for us to reach our full potential. Love your zentangles, you have more patience than me 🙂
Janet Van Rossen
February 28, 2013 2:52 pmI think your wonderful zentangle drawings are a wonderful depiction of the path of learning. Superb.
Janet xx
Catherine
February 25, 2013 10:23 amLovely art and some interesting concepts around education and creativity.
Catherine
Tracey Fletcher King
February 25, 2013 1:11 amI am a real Ken Robinson fan and if you liked this then you might like to also try the Element… full of thought provoking ideas and approaches… xx
Jenny Pearson
February 23, 2013 3:49 pmInteresting book. Love your Zentangle works and the idea of the red thread.
Jen x
Shirley
February 23, 2013 1:45 pmYour artwork is amazing, one day I will sit down with some meditative music playing and try to loose myself in the moment. Your review is great and the quote is a great way to sum it up. It must have been really interesting to hear the author’s lecture.
darcy
February 23, 2013 11:29 amohh very interesting review, it saddens me that there is not more creativity encouraged in schools. Love your zentangles, the red thread joining them is so simple but yet has such strength.
Gina
February 23, 2013 8:52 amThis sounds a very sensible and enlightened author….and your art is a fabulous representation of the intricacies of life 😀 XXX
San @ Made in Hem
February 23, 2013 7:04 amOh, you are a Zentangle-master! I’ve tried it a couple times but I make such a mess of it… 🙂
I’m glad you liked your book!
Dawn
February 23, 2013 3:00 amI have a problem with the way school teaches & assesses. Only once certain type can ever thrive in this way, and therefore work. I always learn better in practical situations so those subjects were my best (Home economics, wood work, metal work and of course ART & Design)
Your book sounds interesting, I may have to give it a look. I adore those who have a skill and zentangle is definitely one I do not posses, but I admire those who do. Beautiful art work I like the concept you have used as well thank you Dxx