The Parachute Model, Part 1
Episode 16 Are you someone who's always looking for tools to help your creative process? I know I am! I do my best to continue developing my creative toolbox as I grow as an artist. One of the things I've recently been working on, as I've started writing more consistently, is developing a theoretical model of what the creative process looks like. This has helped me approach my songwriting with new eyes. It has also given me a more solid foundation for my conversations with my students who are looking for a deeper understanding of what goes into creating art. In this episode we start a multi-episode discussion of that theoretical model, which I refer to as "The Parachute Model." The concept is simple: using a skydive jump as a metaphorical lens through which to view the creative process. Like any good metaphor, the imagery allows you to elucidate some new parts of your subject that may not easily seem apparent. I wanted to have something that would scale easy to both beginners and professionals having discussions about the creative process. The image of a skydiver precariously dangling beneath a parachute seemed an apt depiction of an artist in the midst of creating, so the metaphor stuck. In this episode we go over the basics of the theoretical model, talking about risk in art, having a target (either broad or narrow), and making choices to help you move towards or away from that target. In the next couple episodes we will be fleshing out the model with some more specific nuances of creative process, and then take the model through some practical examples of how it can be used in when making art. The Honest Songwriter Podcast is 15-20 minutes of regular, open conversation about songwriting, what it's like to be a songwriter, and how to keep improving at the craft of songwriting. New episodes every three weeks! Sign up to stay up-to-date on new music and podcast episodes here: http://bit.ly/sign_up_kedwardsmith By signing up for the email list you'll get early access to new music, exclusive behind the scenes looks at writing process, and stay in the loop on new videos and podcast episodes. You can hear the latest songs released as part of my year-long songwriting challenge at this link: http://bit.ly/kedwardsmith_indie_releases