When Walls Become Doorways: Creativity, Chaos Theory, and Physical Illness

Zausner, Tobi

doi:10.1207/s15326934crj1101_3

Cited by 45 publications

(33 citation statements)

References 3 publications

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“…The findings indicate that illness -through both the crisis of identity that it provokes, and its restricting influence on usual activity -can re-awaken dormant artistic interests in mid-life and later years. These observations add to the evidence that illness can provide a turning point in some artists' careers (Zausner, 1998). A similar 're-awakening' of artistic interests was noted among women living with breast cancer attending a support group (Predeger, 1996).…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 63%

“…Helson (1990) sees creativity as problematic for many women to achieve, and suggests that both personal characteristics (such as being imaginative in childhood, ambitious, persevering, and serious) and social encouragement (such as being selected as 'special' within the family) are important. Zausner (1998) notes in the study of artists who turned to art in the aftermath of illness in childhood that family role models were usually present. Lindauer, Orwoll & Kelley (1997) studied older artists who regarded the quality and quantity of their work as increasing with age.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness I: Textile Artists Coping With Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Origins of Their Interest in Art

Reynolds¹

2003

Creativity Research Journal

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Abstract:This qualitative study explored the origins of interest in textile arts among a group of women living with long-term health problems. The part that illness played in motivating engagement in creative arts was of particular concern. Twenty four women were interviewed, aged between 29-72 years. Most were hobbyists and but the sample included some publicly acclaimed textile artists. A minority had engaged in art continuously since their earlier years. Most of the women had discovered (or rediscovered) textile arts, in middle and later life. Several factors facilitated this. The narratives indicated that the women's pre-existing resilient personality as well as extensive support structures may have encouraged a reflective attitude and a problemsolving approach to living with illness. The experience of biographical disruption, stemming from the crisis of illness, dissatisfaction with unproductive time and a growing need for self-fulfilment, appeared to create a search for a meaningful occupation. The discovery of textile art as a meaningful occupation (as opposed to other ways of living with illness) appeared to be encouraged by early role models, enjoyment of art at school, the discovery that adult personal and professional interests could be expressed through artwork, and chance events. Textile art at school appeared to provide a form of 'cultural capital' for these women, who returned to this art medium and the skills learned earlier, when crisis occurred. The findings indicate that a negative event such as illness may have life-enhancing effects. Rehabilitation specialists might focus more on the arts as a resource for adults living with illness.

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Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 63%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness I: Textile Artists Coping With Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Origins of Their Interest in Art

Reynolds¹

2003

Creativity Research Journal

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“…Zausner (1998) examined the biographies of a number of artists (mostly male) who had suffered from serious illness, and concluded that illness was often a catalyst to a deeper commitment to art. For some, their work was enriched by themes relating to illness.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness II: Textile Artists Coping with Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Creative Process

Reynolds¹

2004

Creativity Research Journal

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“…In this theoretical analysis, I argue that through examining the universality of music, the empowering experiences of diverse artists using creativity as a form of resilience becomes apparent (Zausner, 2007). By considering the effectiveness of music as a multicultural healing modality, one could come to understand more fully how art is integral to the human quest for wholeness.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

David Bowie: Transience and Potentiality

Whitaker¹

2016

Neuroquantology

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In this paper, I argue that, in particular, the avant-garde visuals in musician David Bowie's performance acts and the frequently experimental nature of his catalogue of work throughout his music career serve to inspire fans to overcome feelings of existential anxiety by offering a platform wherein those fans can safely remain ensconced in that anxiety alongside Bowie and explore absurdity as fellow travelers of life. A recent study conducted by Sharman and Dingle (2015) supports the view that therapeutic potential of music in the rock genre goes against the commonly accepted ideal that heavy music typified in rock acts as catalysts for negative emotions, such as general anxiety or aggression. Bowie's penchant for reflecting the world around him -as encompassed especially in the lyrical content of the song and it's subsequent music video that showcases a 10 minute runtime and breathtaking visuals -is the key element of why music is not only vital as a human-created art form, but a critical venue wherein the existentialist can mirror his or her world and inspire the layperson to do the same. That echoing of the human situation through art, I suggest, is precisely what Camus meant about remaining present with the absurdity of life and utilizing an alchemical container like a song to channel the resultant anxiety derived from understanding that absurdity, and transforming that anxiety into a feeling of serenity, and even possibly delight.

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When Walls Become Doorways: Creativity, Chaos Theory, and Physical Illness

Cited by 45 publications

References 3 publications

Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness I: Textile Artists Coping With Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Origins of Their Interest in Art

Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness I: Textile Artists Coping With Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Origins of Their Interest in Art

Conversations About Creativity and Chronic Illness II: Textile Artists Coping with Long-Term Health Problems Reflect on the Creative Process

David Bowie: Transience and Potentiality

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