## Assumption I firmly believe that constraints in creativity are empowering and much needed. To think outside the box, one must first define the box - its dimensions, whether big, small, wide, or transparent. This thought experiment provides a framework for conversations and feedback on creative work, empowering us to understand the boundaries of our creativity. But does this approach apply to all aspects of creativity? Are there type of constraints that are not useful? ## Research I have found several articles that support my assumption. Constraints do help to define what is possible and what is not. With that in mind, you can live within those possibilities or dare to challenge them. However, are all constraints beneficial, or are there constraints that may be detrimental? According to an [article in HBR](https://hbr.org/2021/04/innovation-starts-with-defining-the-right-constraints?t), there are two groups of constraints: 1. Unhelpful ones, such as Budget and Risk 2. Helpful ones, such as Outcome and Time Constraints like Budget and Risk may narrow creativity and innovation to tried and tested solutions. However, when used effectively, constraints like Outcomes and Time can create a unique playground for creativity. They focus more on what needs to be done and by when and less on how something needs to be done, fostering innovative and unique solutions. An excellent example is [The Design Sprint](https://www.thesprintbook.com/the-design-sprint) technique of generating creative ideas in five days. ### How does it work in arts? Multum Non Multa (translates to “much, not many.”) Nancy Hills examines the effects of constraints in her essay [The Power Of Simplicity & Constraint In Art](https://www.artistsjourney.com/blog/constraint-in-art). She explores the link between simplicity and constraints: > “Even science is about constraint and abstraction. Science gets rid of the extraneous and boils it down to the essence of truth. And doing so does not disrespect the complexity and richness of the natural world. Quite the contrary, it’s a way of more deeply appreciating it. > . > . > . > Scientists talk about the _elegant solution_ to complex problems. The variables we deal with in creating a painting are endless. So how do we simplify things? The question becomes how do we take a concept and boil it down to its essence?” [‘The Bull’(1945) by Picasso](https://drawpaintacademy.com/the-bull/) is an interesting example of how applying constraints to the form by reducing noise can lead to the creation of something much more elegant. While it may not conform to the traditional definition of elegance (depending on who you ask), it certainly sparks curiosity and invites contemplation. ![[Pasted image 20240607170310.png]] ## Takeaways 1. Constraints, in general, are good as long as there’s understanding and agreement of what needs to be done and by when 2. They can come in many forms, especially in creative work 3. Constraints are paradoxical. On the surface, they seem to limit the possibilities, but in practice (if done right), they allow for infinite freedom > [!Tip] Feedback > See an error or have something to say? Let me know at [email protected] or on [Twitter](https://x.com/sokratus) ## Resources 1. [Innovation Starts with Defining the Right Constraints](https://hbr.org/2021/04/innovation-starts-with-defining-the-right-constraints?t) 2. [The Design Sprint](https://www.thesprintbook.com/the-design-sprint) 3. [The Power Of Simplicity & Constraint In Art - The Artist's Journey with Nancy Hillis](https://www.artistsjourney.com/blog/constraint-in-art) 4. [The Bull by Pablo Picasso - A Lesson in Abstraction - Draw Paint Academy](https://drawpaintacademy.com/the-bull/)