The Artistic Alchemy: Unraveling the Correlation Between Persona, Psychology, and Art Styles
Is an artist's style determined by their persona? Can anyone become an artist, or is it an innate trait?
Behind the remarkable talent of many admired artists lies a hidden struggle. The art style an individual adopts or is drawn to reflects not only their personality traits and preferences but also their emotional state. Numerous creative geniuses grappled with depression, anxiety, and mania. In acknowledging this significant aspect, we wish to highlight how emotional states can find expression through matching creative outlets.
I am unable to describe exactly what is the matter with me. Now and then there are horrible fits of anxiety, apparently without cause, or otherwise a feeling of emptiness and fatigue in the head… at times I have attacks of melancholy and of atrocious remorse.-Vincent van Gogh
Depression and melancholy: Experiencing depression may gravitate towards art styles that reflect feelings of sadness, isolation, or introspection. Artists may use subdued colors, somber themes, and abstract or distorted forms to convey their emotional state. Expressionist or Surrealist styles, for instance, often capture the intensity of inner turmoil and emotional struggles.
Anxiety and chaos: Artists dealing with anxiety or chaotic thoughts may find solace in art styles that provide structure or order. Precision-based art forms like pointillism or geometric abstraction can offer a sense of control and focus. On the other hand, some artists may create works that visually represent the chaos and restlessness they feel, using fragmented or frenetic compositions.
Obsession and perfectionism: With obsessive-compulsive tendencies or a perfectionistic mindset artists may find themselves drawn to highly detailed and meticulously executed art styles. Realism or hyperrealism often appeals to those who seek precision. The process of creating intricate and precise artwork can provide a sense of control and order.
Imagination and fantasy: Such as Surrealism or Magical Realism, may resonate with individuals who have a rich inner world or experience conditions like dissociation. These styles allow artists to explore dreamlike or otherworldly realms, representing symbolic or abstract ideas beyond the confines of reality.
Autism, Synesthesia, or ADHD: Artists with conditions such often bring unique perspectives to their art. Unconventional color combinations, abstract compositions, or focus on patterns and repetition can be seen in the works. These artists may thrive in abstract or non-representational styles that allow for personal interpretation and sensory exploration. More on the most common modern-age condition ADHD;
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual's attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. People with ADHD often have unique strengths, including creativity, spontaneity, and a unique way of perceiving the world. These strengths can be channeled into various art styles.
Abstract Art: Freedom of expression and the use of imagination is encouraged. The spontaneous, non-representational nature of abstract art, allows artists to explore their thoughts and emotions in a less structured way.
Expressionism: Through vivid colors, distorted forms, and exaggerated brushwork can help to channel artists’ intense emotions and energy into their work, creating visually striking and emotionally charged pieces.
Street Art/Graffiti: The energetic, dynamic nature of street art and graffiti with bold lines, vibrant colors, and a sense of spontaneity and movement may be fit for artists’ energetic and impulsive tendencies.
Collage/Mixed Media: Combining various materials and techniques to create visually layered and eclectic compositions allows for a wide range of experimentation, providing the opportunity to explore multiple ideas and sensory experiences.
Digital Art: The fast-paced, interactive nature of digital art can be well-suited with a high level of flexibility, allowing artists to experiment, revise, and quickly move between different ideas, which can engage and captivate the attention of individuals with ADHD.
There are numerous published books and articles that explore the relationship between an artist's persona and their creative process. Here are a few notable works that delve into this subject:
The dark side of creativity: Depression + anxiety x madness = genius?
by William Lee Adams, for CNN on January 22, 2014
The Real Link Between Creativity and Mental Illness by Scott Barry Kaufman on October 3, 2013
A Multilevel Meta-Analysis of the Relationship Between Creativity and Schizotypy by Acar, S (Acar, Selcuk); Sen, S (Sen, Sedat) on August 1, 2013
Creativity and Mood Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by
Christa L. Taylor on September 21, 2017
"The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life" by Twyla Tharp - This book delves into the habits and rituals of highly creative individuals, including artists. Tharp explores how personal routines, beliefs, and experiences shape an artist's persona and influence their creative output.
“New ideas about an old topic: Creativity and mental illness," edited by James C. Kaufman - This book re-examines the common view that a high level of individual creativity often correlates with a heightened risk of mental illness. It reverses conventional wisdom that links creativity with mental illness, arguing that the two traits are not associated. With contributions from some of the most exciting voices in the fields of psychology, neuroscience, physics, psychiatry, and management, this is a dynamic and cutting-edge volume that will inspire new ideas and studies on this fascinating topic.
"Art and Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking" by David Bayles and Ted Orland - This book examines the psychological challenges and fears that artists face in the creative process. It explores how an artist's fears, self-doubt, and personal experiences can impact their artistic persona and shape their approach to creating art.
"The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life" by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander - While not solely focused on artists, this book explores how adopting a positive mindset and embracing possibilities can transform one's creative work and personal life. It offers insights into nurturing one's artistic persona and cultivating a mindset of growth and openness.