Tapping Into Your Creative Self

Tanvir Ahmed, a management executive by profession and a painter by passion, organised his solo exhibition titled "The Line, the Wash, and the Wisdom" from December 20, 2017, to January 5, 2018. Tanvir paints under the banner of "Unidentified Colours". His works at the exhibition were an allegorical analysis of themes such as the appeal of isolation, the importance of respecting one's own speed or time at which a goal is accomplished, the dilemma of self-loathing, and the good things that come from making mistakes. Tanvir is inspired by the lyrics and melodies of some of music's greatest artists such as Bob Dylan, The Beatles,

Michael Jackson, Radiohead, Tame Impala, and several others. According to Tanvir, music is always in the background when he is painting. "My work's goal is to inspire people so they may explore things they connect to and generate ideas that better their lives and in turn of those around them," Tanvir says. The artist shares some tips with Star Youth on how one can enhance their creativity.

Identify Your Strengths

You need to identify what your go-to task is when you are feeling overwhelmed and what makes you feel strong. "If you are looking to be successful, look for what you feel passionate about, then commit to it, by playing to your distinctive strengths," states Tanvir, who especially makes acrylic and texture-based art, often using household and even gardening tools.

Commit to a Daily Creative Practice

Find some time daily for a creative practice, no matter how big or small. "Creativity is a set of learnable skills. When you commit to any activity regularly, inspiration strikes regularly," says Tanvir, who studied Economics and has not received any special art schooling. He has been working on some paintings for a year, and has been painting every day for about four months.

Do Not Edit Yourself

When your ideas are flowing and you feel inspired, do not overthink, and do not edit yourself. "I find that an idea unfolds itself better as I start putting paint on canvas without thinking through the whole piece. One component or idea could then inspire something completely new or better," says Tanvir.

Embrace Your Mistakes

Too often, we hold back from embracing our creativity or taking any chances- because we are afraid of failures and mistakes. "Be okay with your mistakes. Learn from your mistakes, adapt to them, and move on," Tanvir says.

When you engage in a creative pursuit over time, you may notice positive changes in your life in general. Figuring out your strengths, finding time for a creative activity regularly, letting your ideas flow, and embracing your mistakes are some ways to tap into your creative self.