The hottest Creativity Substack posts right now

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A letter from the guy asking all the questions

The Sublime Newsletter • 118 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Authenticity Hope Creativity Interviews
  1. Talking to inspiring people can help you feel hopeful and connected, especially when you're going through tough times. It's like having a support system that lifts your spirits.
  2. It's important to ask big questions in life, like how to stay positive or authentic. Engaging in these discussions can lead to personal growth and new insights.
  3. Being open to conversations can change your outlook on life. You may find that sharing experiences can lessen feelings of loneliness and cynicism.

The Film and Studio That 'Should Not Exist'

Animation Obsessive • 13095 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Design Creativity Production
  1. Cinema Fantasma, a unique stop-motion studio in Mexico, created the first Mexican stop-motion feature film called 'I Am Frankelda.' Their work shows how creativity can thrive even with tight budgets.
  2. The film has a fun, imaginative storyline with memorable characters and songs that resonate with audiences. Its premiere at the Annecy Festival was met with excitement and applause.
  3. The Ambriz brothers, who run Cinema Fantasma, faced many challenges but remained determined to bring their vision to life. They hope their success inspires more stop-motion projects in Mexico in the future.

Do Artists Suffer?

The Honest Broker • 9009 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Politics Psychology History Creativity
  1. Suffering is often seen as part of being an artist, but research shows it might not be true for creativity. Instead, suffering may boost ambition, especially in leaders.
  2. History shows that many successful leaders and creatives had difficult childhoods, like losing parents. This loss may actually spark creativity rather than hinder it.
  3. The idea that suffering drives creativity is backed by studies showing a link between personal loss and artistic achievement throughout history.

'Life Is Too Short to Make Remakes'

Animation Obsessive • 13813 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation Events Creativity Film
  1. The Annecy Festival is a huge event for animation, attracting around 18,000 visitors and showcasing unique and powerful art from around the world.
  2. Michel Gondry emphasizes the importance of originality and creativity in art, believing that life is too short to spend making remakes of existing works.
  3. New films like 'The Mourning Children' highlight the dedication of animators to produce authentic and impactful stories by deeply researching historical contexts.

Introducing: Whoa, Vol. 1

The Sublime Newsletter • 257 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Conversations Humanity Creativity Authenticity Community
  1. In a world full of quick and superficial content, people crave deep conversations that feel real and meaningful.
  2. The project 'Whoa, Vol. 1' features a collection of interesting talks with various creatives and thinkers, focusing on human experiences and challenges.
  3. It highlights the importance of honesty and vulnerability in discussions, aiming to inspire and connect readers in a genuine way.
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"The Perfect Writing Space"

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 10237 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Inspiration Authors Creativity Personal narrative
  1. You don't need a fancy or big space to write. Even a small, cozy place can be inspiring and productive.
  2. What really matters for writing is having peace of mind and a sense of freedom. It's about your inner space more than your outer space.
  3. Everyone has their own way to get inspired. Music can be a powerful tool to help focus and create.

Leisure

Soaring Twenties • 162 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Leisure Arts Lifestyle Philosophy Creativity
  1. Leisure is important for a happy life. It's not just about doing nothing; it's a skill that can be learned and appreciated.
  2. Working for a living isn't the only way to find fulfillment. Many people would prefer to spend their time on hobbies and creative projects.
  3. Understanding and mastering leisure can help us slow down and enjoy life more intentionally, just like people in ancient times did.

Writing While Needed By Others

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2400 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Memoir Creativity Self-reflection
  1. It's hard to write when you feel like others need you all the time. Some writers find they need to physically separate themselves from distractions to focus.
  2. Writers, especially women and moms, often feel guilty for taking time for themselves to write. It's important to remind ourselves that our creative pursuits are valuable too.
  3. There are strategies to combat feelings of selfishness and guilt when prioritizing writing. Finding what works for you can help make writing a regular part of your life.

Get Rich in Your Parent's Basement

The Honest Broker • 13464 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Music Creativity Technology
  1. The media and entertainment industry is changing. Indie creators are making more money now, thanks to platforms like YouTube that pay them fairly.
  2. Streaming services like Netflix are struggling because they're trying to cater to viewers with less attention. Making content for casual watching can backfire and lose loyalty from audiences.
  3. Big tech companies are starting to mimic each other. For example, Microsoft is pretending to be like Google instead of standing out on its own, showing a lack of true innovation.

Places you have no reason to be

The Elif Life • 1834 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Travel Art Literature Creativity Education
  1. It's okay to explore places without a specific reason; your curiosity itself is a reason to go. Sometimes, just following your feelings can lead to valuable experiences.
  2. Setting aside time for yourself, like an 'artist date,' is important for creativity. It helps you connect with your inner artist and can inspire new ideas.
  3. Taking detours in life can lead to unexpected insights and connections. Embracing spontaneity might open doors to experiences you never planned for.

From “walking in the desert” to Escaping Flatland

Building the Builders • 2 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Ambition Creativity Writing Personal Growth
  1. Raising your ambition starts with believing in yourself. When you realize you can do more than you think, it opens up new possibilities in all areas of life.
  2. Taking time for self-exploration can boost your creativity. Allowing yourself to write freely without judgment can help overcome writer's block.
  3. Pursuing your goals requires a balance between fun and responsibility. Setting aside time for both exploration and focused work helps you stay productive while enjoying the process.

Long Questions/Short Answers

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 243 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Philosophy Creativity Literary Analysis Education
  1. Asking the right questions can change how you see the world. Questions can guide our thoughts and experiences more than the answers themselves.
  2. When you focus on a big question in your life, it can shape your goals and actions. This question becomes your mission, driving you toward new discoveries.
  3. Curiosity is key to learning and growth. The questions we ask help us filter out irrelevant information and find what matters to us.

Not Unnatural

The American Peasant • 2295 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Craft Technology Creativity
  1. Using Auto-Tune in music can ruin the natural sound of a singer, making it feel fake. It's better to embrace human imperfections, like being slightly off-key, which can make music more relatable and emotional.
  2. In woodworking, some people use technology to create perfect shapes and designs, but this can take away the charm of natural, handmade pieces. Simplicity and imperfections often hold more beauty.
  3. Technology can help us do tasks more easily and still produce good results, but when it creates things that are too complex or unnatural, it loses its appeal. Authenticity and human touch are more valued.

The Anticlimax of Becoming an Author

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2261 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Books Authors Creativity
  1. Becoming an author can feel like a big letdown after the excitement of publication. The rush of attention fades, and new authors often feel disappointed.
  2. It's normal to have mixed feelings after publishing. Authors may feel exposed, especially if they've shared personal stories, which can lead to vulnerability and sadness.
  3. After publication, it's helpful to focus on future projects and give yourself time to adjust. Good things can come later, like new readers or opportunities, so try to enjoy the journey.

A running doc with my little thoughts

Both Are True • 49 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Communication Personal Growth Creativity Experimentation
  1. Writing for an audience can improve your ideas and make them more engaging. It helps you see your thoughts in a different light.
  2. Keeping a log of your thoughts can be a great way to capture ideas that may turn into bigger projects later on.
  3. Sharing your ideas in a way that others can interact with can lead to interesting discussions and feedback.

Donkey work

Austin Kleon • 6154 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
📚 Literature Writing Reading Books Authors Creativity
  1. Writing can feel like hard work, but it's satisfying when a piece takes on a life of its own. Those moments when creativity flows can make all the effort worth it.
  2. Many writers find joy in finishing something rather than the writing process itself. It can take a long time to feel that payoff, but it's really rewarding when you finally do.
  3. Being in between drafts can be a peaceful time for a writer. It's a chance to relax without worrying about the next steps until the next draft comes back.

Power Is Shifting Rapidly to Indie Creators

The Honest Broker • 11037 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
💼 Business Employment Entrepreneurship Creativity Economy Industry
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why it's impossible to finish anything, especially the good things

Both Are True • 245 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays Writing Creativity Parenting Personal Growth
  1. Distractions often keep us from finishing our ideas. When we start something, everyday things like parenting or chores can pull us away.
  2. The closer we get to completing a project, the more we might doubt its worth. It's common to think an idea isn't good enough as we work on it.
  3. Acknowledging our fears about sharing finished work is tough, but creating and putting it out there is essential. We have to be brave and share our creations, no matter the fear.

On Turning Rejection into Motivation and Mastering the Art of the Pitch with Courtney Kocak

The Sub Club Newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Essays Creativity Inspiration
  1. Rejection can be a powerful motivator. It helps writers keep going and improves their pitching skills.
  2. Building good relationships with editors makes the publishing process easier and more successful.
  3. Having excitement and belief in your writing is key. If you love your work, others are more likely to get on board with it too.

I said no to $20,000 because writers must take a moral stand on AI

The Intrinsic Perspective • 40255 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Ethics Creativity Technology Media
  1. Writers should think carefully about the use of AI in their work. Making money is tempting, but authenticity and moral choices matter more.
  2. AI-generated content can create false connections. It's not the same as having a real conversation with a human being.
  3. Supporting human writers and creators is important to maintain authenticity in culture. Subscriptions to real human content can help keep that alive.

Against the Factory Farming of Creativity

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 1544 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Technology Society Economics
  1. The rise of AI in creativity can make it hard to trust what's real. Many people now question if an artwork or a piece of writing is made by a human or a machine.
  2. Generative AI systems often simply copy styles instead of creating unique works. This can dilute the personal stories and emotions behind the art, making it feel less authentic.
  3. There’s a growing push for an 'AI-Free' label, similar to fair trade, to signify work that comes from genuine human creativity instead of machine-generated content.

The comfort of drawing Batman

Austin Kleon • 2018 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Drawing Creativity Comics Cultural Commentary Personal Reflection
  1. Drawing can be a comforting activity, especially during times of boredom or stress. For some, like the author, drawing familiar characters like Batman brings joy.
  2. Airplane mode can enhance productivity because it eliminates distractions. This can turn a flight into a great opportunity to focus and create.
  3. Comfort work is any creative task you do when you don't know what else to tackle. It's nice to have simple activities, like drawing, to fall back on.

if you drink enough coffee you start peeing coffee

Both Are True • 155 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Writing Mental health Creativity Personal Growth
  1. It's okay to write about simple, everyday things, like kids or pets. Those topics can hold deep meaning, even if they seem easy.
  2. Children can remind us of the joy and love in life. They let us see the world differently and embrace our own innocence.
  3. Life doesn't have to be hard or complicated. Sometimes the best ideas come from a place of relaxation and simplicity.

Q & A edition: on volatility in publishing (and candles)

How to Glow in the Dark • 439 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Books Creativity Querying
  1. When querying agents about a new book, it's fine to directly email them if they previously showed interest. Just make sure to update the subject line and include your new manuscript.
  2. Publishing is a partnership, so approach agents with respect and mutual understanding. Both sides need to feel heard and valued for a successful collaboration.
  3. If you get a book deal, don't stress about tight deadlines for sequels. It's more likely that your publisher will not pursue a sequel if your first book doesn't sell well.

When you get confused

Austin Kleon • 6454 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Creativity
  1. It's okay if your writing isn't perfect at first. The important thing is to just get it out there.
  2. Taking time to relax and enjoy lighter activities can help balance out harder work, making you more creative.
  3. When you feel confused or stuck, sometimes just getting on your bike and listening to music can clear your mind.

America Should Not Become a Nation of Tiger Moms

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1321 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Parenting Education Society Mental health Creativity
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.

Words words words

The Fry Corner • 9052 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
📚 Literature Writing Books Creativity Inspiration Mythology
  1. Writing is often a slow process, with ideas developing over time, even when you're not actively writing. A lot of groundwork happens in your mind before the words hit the page.
  2. Sometimes, the inspiration for writing can feel mysterious and out of your control. It can be helpful to think of it as a collaboration with a muse or some creative force.
  3. Writers might find solutions to their problems by simply writing about them. Getting thoughts down on paper can help unlock new ideas and ways to move forward.

Crystallised Authenticity

the shimmering void • 69 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Technology Philosophy Emotion
  1. The role of an artist is to express their feelings and engage with what they observe. It's important to stay true to oneself and reflect on the world honestly.
  2. Creativity isn't just about making flashy things; it takes effort and genuine emotion to create work that resonates with people. Shallow, trendy stuff often lacks real connection.
  3. Art helps people understand their feelings and the world around them better. Artists should aim for authenticity in their work, connecting deeply with their audience through meaningful expression.

Solving Difficult Problems as a Filter

Bzogramming • 45 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Problem Solving Complexity Constraints Creativity Human nature
  1. Asking good questions is key to solving problems. Starting with simple, unrelated questions helps narrow down possibilities and find better answers.
  2. Simplicity is usually better, but complexity can sneak in. Adding constraints to a problem can reduce options quickly, so it's important to manage them wisely.
  3. Being too picky when looking for solutions or people can backfire. Sometimes it’s better to adapt and make things work with what's available, instead of searching for the perfect fit.

Drawing Eno

Austin Kleon • 1778 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Film Creativity Generative Art Documentary
  1. The documentary about Brian Eno is exciting and unique because it creates a different version every time it's shown. This encourages viewers to watch it in theaters for a fresh experience.
  2. It uses a special system called Brain One to generate the film. This system combines new interviews and personal clips from Eno’s archive, making each showing feel like a new story.
  3. The movie has interesting marketing advantages. Since every version is different, it gives people a reason to see it on the big screen instead of waiting for it to stream.

This isn't what I wanted to write

Both Are True • 282 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Personal Creativity Expression Anecdotes
  1. It's okay to feel unsure and doubt your writing. Everyone goes through that, and it's part of the creative process.
  2. There isn't a perfect way to express your thoughts. What matters is that you share your feelings and ideas, even if they aren't flawless.
  3. Taking action, like writing something, is better than doing nothing. Every piece of writing contributes to your growth.

A Different Way To Think About Ideas on the Internet

Culture Study • 1615 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Studies Fan culture Creativity
  1. Fan fiction is often misunderstood but is a significant part of modern culture, reflecting deeper themes of sexuality, identity, and societal norms. It provides a way for people to explore these ideas in creative ways.
  2. Data analysis of fan fiction can reveal interesting trends, such as why certain characters or relationships are more popular. This helps audiences see the connections between fan fiction and broader cultural discussions.
  3. The process of creating visual essays on topics like fan fiction involves collaboration and creative problem-solving. It's about making complex subjects engaging and accessible, encouraging more people to think about cultural issues differently.

Head, heart, hands

Austin Kleon • 2537 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Community Health Education Creativity
  1. Our work should connect with our mind, heart, and hands. This balance helps us find fulfillment in what we do.
  2. The original idea of head, heart, and hands is powerful and reminds us of simplicity in our commitments.
  3. Health is seen as a result of taking care of our head, heart, and hands, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being.

‘Looking Forward’: A Brief Film for Our Times.

Breaking the News • 1141 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Art Media Documentary Creativity
  1. The film 'Looking Forward' combines AI and real-world footage to highlight the contradictions of our time. It's a unique mix that encourages viewers to think deeply about today's world.
  2. It has a hopeful message about how we face challenges, showing that optimism and pessimism can exist together. This balance is important for understanding our current situation.
  3. The film is not just informative but also visually impressive, making it enjoyable to watch. It features interesting moments that capture the audience's attention.

Thank you, and remember, the universe is in your basement

Both Are True • 298 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Creativity Philosophy Writing
  1. David Lynch believes everyone has creativity and happiness inside them. It's okay to be positive and embrace the good in life.
  2. Cinema can express emotions and experiences that are hard to put into words. It connects with our feelings in a unique way.
  3. It's important to just create and share your work, instead of always explaining why you're doing it. The act of creating speaks for itself.

Title matters

Austin Kleon • 2038 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Creativity Inspiration Writing
  1. Titles are important for any piece of work. They can set the tone and attract interest.
  2. Using randomness can spark creativity in titling. Techniques like flipping through books or pulling titles from a drawer can yield great ideas.
  3. Keeping a running list of potential titles helps you have options ready when you need to name something.

Dangerous! This Is the Reason Most Writers Quit (Before They Can Be Successful)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1558 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Writing Mindset Self-help Publishing Creativity
  1. Writers often struggle due to negative mindsets that hold them back. It's important to change how you think before seeking more skills or knowledge.
  2. Taking risks can lead to significant growth. Stepping out of comfort zones can help overcome insecurities and open new opportunities.
  3. Most writers give up when they face challenges, thinking their work is not good enough. It's crucial to push through these feelings to achieve success.

Writing is transformation.

Neckar’s Notes • 63 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Personal Growth Self-help Journaling
  1. Writing can help you transform your life. It allows you to explore deeper emotions and thoughts, leading to personal growth and healing.
  2. Using pen and paper for journaling can unlock creativity. Setting aside time to write helps you get in touch with your feelings and inspires new ideas.
  3. Creating a personal writing practice requires discipline and a clear mindset. Finding a quiet space and dedicating time daily can enhance your writing experience.

Atrophy of the Writing Muscle

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 593 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Publishing Writer's block Personal Development
  1. Taking a break from writing can feel refreshing and necessary, even for dedicated writers. It's okay to step back and focus on other things for a while.
  2. Writers can experience burnout, which can make it harder to get back into writing. It's important to recover and find a sustainable way to write again.
  3. Creativity may ebb and flow, and it's common for artists to pause after completing big projects. Slow and steady practice can help rebuild writing skills.