The Secrets of Creativity

"The Artist Statement is a very diverse thing. For some it may read as a biography, or an chronological story of the artist's creative journey. Others explain particular experiences or artistic explorations that have resulted in the collection being exhibited.

When Catherine's Artist Statement arrived on my desk, I found it to be a delightful and insightful reflection on creativity. It is the essence of Catherine's ideals, which are explored through the floral and landscape paintings in her exhibition "Rivergarden". I knew I had to share her thoughts with each of you."

- Danielle Hoevenaars 

In Catherine's words:

"I read a summary of research into creativity a few weeks ago.  Researchers conclude that four requirements for creativity are non-linearity, associative combinations, trial and error, and not knowing where you are going.

Non-linearity is when your "to do" list looks more like a poem about meaning of life.  Associative combinations could include economics in colour with pets, and possibly a waterfall.  Trial and error means having critical awareness and the clarity to get it right.  Not knowing where you are going is a good thing!  I am so relieved!  I always thought it meant I was a basket case.

Painting's secret gift is uninterrupted time to think.  Playing with colour, using beautiful brushes, finding harmony and balance, exploring images and metaphors......These are my keys for unlocking creativity.  Painting is how I express feelings, think up ideas, expand imagination, and follow intuition.  Images often suggest themselves spontaneously, and later reveal their meaning.

To me, a painting is a cypher, transmitting energy from one person's imagination to the next, like a baton.  It's purpose is to further creative thought in unknown ways across time. "

- Catherine Morrisey