Creativity in Times of Change: How Artists Find Inspiration and Overcome Crises

We all seem to be asking ourselves anew, "What is good and what is bad?" on both a global and personal scale, somehow learning to cope with a series of shocks and crises. The author of this column has been interested for over 20 years in how creative individuals working in the arts and culture navigate these challenges, adapt to a world of perpetual change, and what successful strategies they use to develop their talents—insights they can share with readers. Following in the footsteps of one of the most prominent contemporary psychologists, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the author of flow theory and extensive research on the creativity of exceptional individuals, we will explore the creative processes of modern artists, directors, and photographers. Through interviews, the author will delve into their sources of inspiration and uncover their secrets for maintaining productivity, creativity, and discipline throughout their lives—lessons that can be valuable to people in all professions, entrepreneurs, and those who frequently change career paths.

The author’s goal is not only to keep readers curious and engaged with the psychology of creativity but also to heighten their sensitivity to diverse artistic languages and methods. To achieve this, the author hopes to go behind the scenes of renowned creators, examine their sources of inspiration, and uncover the pivotal moments in their careers that shaped them as artists.

One marker of an artist’s recognition is the acquisition of their work by collectors and museums. We will also discuss how collectors discover and choose "their" artists, how they build their collections, and what happens to these collections over time—conversations we will have with contemporary patrons of the arts.

Just as we are interested in individual creators, we are also fascinated by the context in which today’s art is born. Therefore, this column will regularly highlight noteworthy exhibitions, events, and projects in the arts and culture. Another key theme in today’s cultural landscape is the blurring of boundaries within creative industries. To better understand these developments, the author will regularly explore trends and key topics in art, design, and architecture.