This process is used for generating imagery
that goes beyond the cliches that usually come to mind when
first visualizing a solution. It will be used in class for
Project 1. It can also be used by the individual for subsequent
projects or any creative endeavor.
Group Brainstorming
Form Groups. Form small groups of three to
four people. Within each group, members number themselves from
1 to however many people there are in that group, e.g. 1 -
4. The following process cycle repeats for each numbered member
the group. That is, complete one cycle for all #1s in the class,
then for # 2, etc.
1. State Project Theme (1 min)
One individual from each group communicates their project proposal
to their group.
2. Generate a List of Adjectives Describing the Theme (3
min)
Each group generates adjectives or descriptive phrases
that come to mind when thinking about the stated proposal,
and the individual writes down the list of responses.
Quantity of adjectives is essential. Quality or relevance
should not be considered or judged. There are no wrong
answers.
3. Choose 1 Adjective from the List
(1 min)
The individual looks at the list and immediately pulls
out three of the most relevant adjectives or phrases.
From those three, one is chosen that best reflects the
artist's proposal. The artist should not have to think
about the choice. It should present itself immediately.
4. Generate a List of Nouns that Objectify the Chosen
Adjective (3 min)
Each group generates nouns that can be described by the
chosen adjective or descriptive phrase. The nouns do
not have to directly relate to the stated proposal. Again,
quantity is essential. and responses should not be judged
or debated.
5. Choose 1 noun from the List (1
min)
The individual looks at the list and immediately pulls
out three of the most relevant nouns. From those three,
one is chosen that seems most relevant. The artist should
not have to think about the choice. It should present
itself immediately.
6. Generate a List of Images whose Descriptions Include
the Chosen Noun (3 min)
Each group generates images that contain the chosen noun. Images do not have
to directly relate to the stated proposal. Again, quantity is essential,
and responses should not be judged or debated.
7. Discussion
The list of images is considered and will hopefully
give the artist new inspiration and suggest visual solutions
previously unimagined. Perhaps new meaning can be revealed,
or a more profound aspect of the proposal can then be explored.