Utne Reader's "The Future of Creativity"

It's been a long time since I read Utne Reader - I used to subscribe, but got to the point where I found it gratingly earnest. But when I saw this month's issue (in the check-out line at Whole Foods - such a cliche!), I couldn't resist. It's an examination of The Future of Creativity, from a range of angles.

In light of the recent discussion on this blog re: what "creativity" really means, I found it interesting that this package of stories interprets creativity as parts imagination, risk-taking, inventiveness, and active engagement with the world around you.

Here's a rundown of the stories:


"The Future of Creativity"
The importance of unstructured play for building kids' imaginative capacity

"Why Essays Are So Damned Boring"
A call for essayists to take more risks

"The Creativity Conceit"
An examination of American inventiveness (the author argues, we're not as unique as we think)

"Art + Science = Inspiration"
The creative potential of combining art and science

"Putting the Arts Back into the Arts"
An interview with Bill Ivey, former chair of the NEA and now director of the Curb Center for Art, Enterprise and Public Policy, that explores what's wrong with art policy.

Ivey says we don't talk enough about "making art as a route to a vibrant, expressive life that's a public good." Amen, brother!