EP #01: Finding Inspiration to Rethink Originality

In this week’s episode, we do one of our favorite things: expanding on a concept that we take for granted in our daily lives which, in reality, is so much more complex when examined in deep, soulful - and sometimes chaotic - conversation. Here we focus in on the ever-elusive concept of originality. What is it? Does it really exist or even more fundamentally, can it? Why do we use it as a measure of ‘good’ or ‘virtuous’ art and creation? How can it harm or help us as creatives? 

During the episode, we explore these questions and the resources that have helped us make new sense of originality. And to conclude, we give ourselves permission to unapologetically nerd out about the music, media, and creators more broadly who help enrich our understandings of originality. Do we find answers to all the tricky questions we raise? No, sort of, we tried, it depends on how you define ‘answers’. Do we have fun along the way, laugh, and lean into unknowing? All the time.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 - 6:01: Lightbulb Moments

6:02 - 17:57: Creative Lab 

17:58 - 19:24: Intro to our very complex feelings on originality

19:25 - 30:31: How does the pressure to be “original” impact our ability to create? 

30:32 - 41:32: What are moments that made us rethink our understanding of originality? 

41:33 - 1:14:27: Picking a piece of art/creative endeavor or a creator that we’re fans of and unpacking the influences that gave rise to them. Where does its originality come from? How do these examples help us redefine or expand our understanding of originality?

Don’t Be a Stranger! 

Subscribe to Mixed Media Minds on whichever platform you listen to us on to catch our weekly episodes!

Check out our Substack and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay connected to our Mixed Media Minds pluriverse: https://mixedmediaminds.substack.com! 

Do you have thoughts on today’s episode? Want to share the creators or creations that help shape your thoughts on originality? We’d love to hear from you! Whether you agree, disagree, or just want to share your own perspective on the elusive nature of originality, send us an email at [e-mail]!

References Mentioned

Jim Jarmusch quote on originality

The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron

Sound Credits: see here