Episode 73: Keeping The Creative Spark Alive with AJ Knox
Today we welcome AJ Knox, a multi-talented creative with experience in theater, visual arts, writing, and comedy. AJ caught my attention in Genna Blackburn's 75 Day art challenge with his unique and creative approach to the art prompts provided. We explore his journey into various artistic endeavors, discussing the importance of letting go of perfectionism and embracing a playful, experimental mindset.
Artistic Style and Imperfection
AJ's artistic evolution unfolds from an initial phase of perfectionism to a more liberated and playful style. The shift involves letting go of perfection and embracing the beauty of imperfection. He highlights the importance of ongoing artistic practice as a means of personal growth, emphasizing that each piece contributes to the continuous journey of self-expression. AJ's journey becomes a testament to the transformative power of releasing expectations and allowing creativity to flow in more organic and authentic ways. He describes his creative process and how self-doubt can creep in before the finalizing the project. He describes how he pushs through this stage and the importance of finding joy in the act of creating.
Finding Inspiration in Comedy
AJ extensive background in theater and stand-up comedy significantly influences his creative approach. As a kid he grew up watching The Muppets and Looney Tunes, and loved jokes and humor. Often viewing shapes and prompts through a comedic lens, AJ injects unexpected and playful elements into his artwork. The intersection of humor and art serves as a source of inspiration, shaping his distinctive style.
Creativity as a Daily Practice and Embracing Play
AJ underscores the significance of weaving creativity into daily life, even if only for 5-10 minutes. Drawing parallels between creativity and play, he encourages individuals to adopt a "yes, and" attitude toward the small moments of joy and exploration. Whether through doodling, making funny voices, or engaging with diverse forms of media, each act contributes to a broader creative habit. By incorporating play into daily routines, AJ believes individuals can tap into the joy and freedom inherent in the creative process, fostering a more enriching and sustainable creative practice.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Embracing a mindset shift away from perfectionism and rigid expectations allows for greater creative freedom and exploration.
Recognizing that all art is part of an ongoing practice helps to not get too attached to the end product and can overall help your creative growth.
Adopting a learning and growth mindset is crucial for overcoming creative blocks and pushing oneself to try new styles, techniques, and approaches.
Strategies for overcoming creative blocks include putting away distractions, doodling mindlessly, engaging in activities unrelated to art to spark inspiration, and allowing oneself to embrace failure as part of the creative process.
AJ Knox is, in no particular order, an award-winning writer, director, illustrator, performer, and educator originally from San Diego, CA. He is currently a Copy Supervisor at Raindrop Branding & Advertising, where he gets to write funny ads (occasionally performing in them). Through Raindrop, he’s worked with such clients as Dr. Squatch, Manscaped, Native, Suavecito, Disney, Warner Bros, Ridge, and dozens more; his work has won several advertising awards, including Emmys. He also serves as the President of the Board at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center (NVA) in Carlsbad, CA. Through NVA, AJ has directed such shows as Avenue Q, Murder for Two, Little Shop of Horrors, Singin’ in the Rain, and he co-adapted and directed a world premiere production of The Servant of Two Masters. His work has been nominated for several Craig Noel Awards through the San Diego Theatre Critics Circle. AJ has also served as the Artistic Director for Carlsbad Playreaders, where he has produced, directed, or performed in over 20 different plays. AJ is also a storyteller who has performed several autobiographical short stories through So Say We All’s “Vamp” program. His illustrations have been a mainstay in Ocean Beach memorabilia and events (puzzles, ornaments, stickers, T-shirts, logos, etc), and he is currently illustrating two children’s books. He holds his PhD in Drama from Tufts University, his MA in Theatre Education from Emerson College, and his BA in Theatre Arts from Loyola Marymount University. When not wholly occupied with his creative endeavors, he spends his time with his wife Jenna and daughter Lincoln (3), AKA “Princess Hurricane”.
Website: www.DrAJKnox.com
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