Wonder has long been one of my values. When I reflect on my childhood memories and the feelings tied to those memories, I feel a sense of wonder intertwined with my drive for creativity and art making.
Perhaps now as an adult, creativity and art making is what has enabled me to hold onto a sense of that wonder as life’s journey through my school years and into adulthood tried hard to leave it behind.
However, what if wonder is not just a childhood memory or a fleeting emotion, but a fundamental human right - one that is intricately connected to creativity and art making? Can we rekindle the childlike curiosity that many of us have left behind in the pursuit of adulthood?
I had been pondering these questions for a little while, uncommitted to finding the answers, until recently one of my art teachers Jess Le Clerc (Award winning Sunshine Coast Fine Artist and principal and founder of Art School Co.) also shared her thoughts on her instagram about wonder and pondered a similar thing. I realised there are others thinking about this, and this is important and we need to find an answer.
Creativity thrives in an environment where curiosity is nurtured and encouraged. Wonder acts as a gateway to curiosity, prompting individuals to question, explore, and seek new perspectives.
As artists, we can use our work to help others be captivated by the wonders of the world - whether it be the history of a landscape, the stunning hues of a flower, or the depth of human emotions - we can be the ones to open the door to cultivate wonder.
Jess Le Clerc showing us the beauty of creativity at her 4 day oil painting workshop held in September at Art School Co, Sunshine Coast. For a room full of us adults, it was four days of intense focus and art making, unknowingly rekindling a sense of wonder for some.
My daughter immersed herself in the world of color and creativity, joyfully watched by the artist and art teacher, Lauren Horton, during Art School Co.'s recent Open Studio event. I am reminded daily of the boundless imagination that resides in children.
Art has long been a medium through which humans express their sense of wonder. When I am creating art I am expressing my sense of wonder. I can share my unique perceptions of the world, inviting others to join me in the exploration of the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Reclaiming wonder requires a deliberate shift in mindset. It involves carving out moments of stillness and reflections, allowing ourselves to be present in the moment and engaging with our surroundings.
Three practical steps I am going to take to cultivate more wonder are:
Mindful observation: Observe my surroundings with fresh eyes, moments of contemplation and engaging my senses.
Embrace Curiosity: Question, without the need for immediate answers.
Limit Distractions: In this world of constant notifications and demands, I need to intentionally carve out spaces of quiet and focus.
These steps can be instrumental in creating an environment where wonder and creativity can flourish.
Wonder is not a luxury but a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human. As we rediscover the importance of wonder, we unlock the door to a richer, more fulfilling life—one marked by creativity, appreciation for the arts, and a deeper connection to the world around us. Let us champion wonder as a human right, recognising its power to inspire, to innovate, and to bring a sense of awe and joy to our daily lives.
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on wonder and how you make space for it in your daily life. Leave a comment below or send me a message, let’s keep this conversation going!
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