Female artists and nature: An intuitive inquiry into transpersonal aspects of creativity in the natural environment
by Manos, Catherine, Ph.D., INSTITUTE OF TRANSPERSONAL PSYCHOLOGY, 2007, 338 pages; 3270987

Abstract:

This research is an investigation into the role of creativity as a means of developing a transpersonal connection with the natural environment. It explores the relationship between women artists and the natural environment. This dynamic is communicated through the women's stories about their creative process and relationship with nature as well as through the intuition and felt sense of the researcher regarding their creative work. Intuitive inquiry (Anderson, 2004) was used as a method of examining the data collected from interviews from 13 women artists who used nature as a means of inspiration for their creative work or who used a natural medium to create their art. The women artists interviewed displayed a relationship with nature that appears to be enhanced by their creativity. Twelve lenses were identified that represented the content of the interviews. Recognizing that these women were primarily visual artists who were attracted to nature, the final lenses included an awareness of: (a) an increased consciousness of the ecological needs of the environment; (b) nature as a source of inspiration; (c) Exceptional Human Experiences (EHEs) experienced as a result of creative work; (d) a sense of loss when not in a natural environment; (e) a sense of feeling connected to the natural environment; (f) a sense of awe, wonder, gratitude and respect for nature; (g) a recognition of a spiritual component as regards their creative practices that enhances their relationship to nature; (h) an embodiment of personal experience and history inspired by their relationship with nature; (i) the use of creative acts and nature as a means of healing; (j) a reciprocal relationship with nature in which there is an exchange of information and energy; and (k) recognition that the intention behind the creative act is as important as the finished product. The final lens (l) indicated that creativity was a viable technique that enhanced the research design using the intuitive inquiry method. Implications for further transpersonal research include exploring the relationship of male artists as regards their relationship with nature and the use of creativity as a tool for understanding transpersonal relationships in general.

 
AdviserRosemarie Anderson
SchoolINSTITUTE OF TRANSPERSONAL PSYCHOLOGY
SourceDAI/A 68-07, p. , Dec 2007
Source TypeDissertation
SubjectsFine arts; Women's studies
Publication Number3270987
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