Every creative project starts with a conversation. And every Conversation begins with a question or statement. So, what do you have to say? What do you want to know? How will you start a conversation?
It may go something like: “I’ve had an idea!” or “what do you think about…?” or “have you ever wondered…?”. And now you’re off! It really can be that simple.
Learn Something New
The difficulty comes when you try to think too far ahead. The very fact you’ve posed a question or put forward an idea demonstrates you have something specific in mind. But it also suggests you are willing to learn something new. So, don’t cloud things by trying to second-guess where the conversation will take you.
The purpose of starting a dialogue is to gain somebody else’s view on a topic. In conversation, this may feel adversarial. Especially where two people have different perspectives. But conflict will only arise if you are overly defensive of your position.
Carry The Conversation Forward
Working creatively together, this process becomes collaborative. All view points can be explored to the mutual enrichment of everyone concerned. And the presentation of a resulting artistic work means you can share discoveries made with a wider public.
In performing or displaying your artistic creation, you therefore carry the conversation forward. Firstly, you will provoke thoughts and feelings in your audience. Their responses in the moment help to fuel the performance or presentation. And they may well go away afterwards and have further discussions of the ideas or concepts raised.
Question, Challenge & Discuss
All of which is is invaluable within an educational setting. We strive to provide safe spaces in which pupils can question, challenge and discuss ideas. The supportive, collaborative environment engendered by creative pursuits provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to grow and flourish.
It’s especially beneficial to those that may be less able to participate fully within a standard classroom scenario. For them, having other ways in which to engage with given topics and concepts can be both liberating and rewarding. And they also benefit, within this context, from not being singled out. All are encouraged to freely express themselves and none has to fear getting things ‘wrong’.
A Habit Worth Developing
Whilst this, in of itself, may be daunting to some, no one should be averse to simply starting a conversation. It’s something nearly all of us do without a second’s thought. And if you don’t, it’s a habit worth developing.
In our everyday interactions, the simple act of asking a question – whether to a friend, a relative or a complete stranger – will invariably lead to some kind of dialogue. This is often dismissed as ‘small talk’. However, asking someone ‘how’s your day going?’, ‘what brings you here?’ or, simply, ‘how are you?’ can be the precursor to an unexpected and interesting exchange. Whereas we may be reluctant to make the first conversational move, it’s rare that somebody will be less than pleased we have taken the trouble.
Aired & Shared
In any given situation, you are likely to have thoughts and questions in your mind. If you allow these to be aired and shared, they may well provide the first steps towards a creative outcome. So, what do you have to say? What would you Iike to know?
How will you start a conversation?