The Connection Between Curiosity & Creativity

One of the many benefits of practicing creative activities is its impact on curiosity. In our classes, we lead with an inquiry mindset and and strive to increase curiosity. We recognize that creating art has a positive effect on curiosity in several ways:

1. Exploration: When creating art, we are exploring with different techniques, materials, and ideas. This process of exploration sparks curiosity and encourages us to try new things. As we play with art materials we lead with a "I wonder if ____" mentality.

2. Experimentation: Art also involves experimentation, which fosters a sense of curiosity and a willingness to take risks and try new approaches. We practice stepping out of our comfort zone in a low risk and supportive environment. This builds courage and gives us permission to be curious.

3. Observation: Creating art requires close observation of the subject being recreated, this helps cultivate curiosity about the world around us and encourage us to look more closely at the details of our surroundings. On even the most basic level, we begin looking differently at the world around us. One example is when children draw eyes as circles. Yet, as we take the time to observe the gentle slopes and pinched corners, we start to reshape our view of the eye and they become more almond shaped. We apply this same process outside of the classroom as we examine things more closely.

4. Inspiration: Art can be a source of inspiration, both for the artist and for those who view their work. Seeing the creativity and originality of others sparks curiosity and inspires us to explore our own ideas and interests. This is especially powerful when we experience our share time at the end of class. Students are given an opportunity to explain their work. As the audience, we see it in a new light which sparks future questions when we view the world around us.

5. Reflection: Creating art is a reflective process. As we create, we consider the meaning and message behind our work. This introspection encourages curiosity about our own thoughts, emotions, and experiences. We dig a little deeper.

Overall, creating art is a powerful tool for fostering curiosity. It encourages exploration, experimentation, observation, inspiration, and reflection. Best of all, the curiosity that is fostered inside our classroom continues to blossom throughout all aspects of life.