The aesthetic mind: Your superpower in creativity
I stumbled on this gem in my notes the other day, from David Edwards’ book Artscience: Creativity in the post-Google generation:
“When I speak of art, I will mostly refer to an aesthetic mind, by which I mean a process of thought that is guided by images, is sensual and intuitive, often thrives in uncertainty, is ‘true’ in that it seems to reflect or elucidate or interpret what we experience in our lives, and is expressive of nature in its capacity for complexity.”
Wow, right? It hit me hard, especially after I Googled “aesthetic mind” and saw over 5,000 results. Apparently, there’s a whole universe of thought around this concept—time to dive in!
But here’s the thing: this aesthetic mind? It’s not just for artists. It’s for all of us. It’s the part of your brain that taps into images, sensations, and intuitive knowing. It thrives in the messy, uncertain spaces where logic doesn’t always have the answers. It’s a way of seeing the world, reflecting on your experiences, and interpreting them in a way that feels true, even if it’s not always easy to put into words.
Sound like anyone you know? Maybe…you?
Living in an Aesthetic Mindset
Let’s break it down. The aesthetic mind isn’t about “thinking hard” or “getting things right.” Instead, it’s about:
- Guided by Images: Whether it’s a vivid memory, a dream, or a metaphor that suddenly clicks, images often carry wisdom that words can’t.
- Sensual and Intuitive: Your aesthetic mind senses the world through textures, colors, and feelings. It’s less about hard data and more about resonance.
- Thriving in Uncertainty: The aesthetic mind knows how to hang out in the gray areas. Instead of rushing to resolve discomfort, it asks, “What else might be here?”
- True to Experience: It’s not about scientific accuracy or cold logic. The aesthetic mind captures the essence of what you’re living.
Why This Matters Now
We’re in a world that often glorifies the linear, left-brain approach: productivity, logic, and efficiency. But what we really need right now is balance. The aesthetic mind offers a different kind of intelligence—one that’s deeply human, rich, and life-giving.
David Edwards’ description reminds me why I work with metaphor, creativity, and right-brain wisdom. These aren’t just abstract ideas—they’re tools for living fully. When we embrace the aesthetic mind, we make space for beauty, intuition, and complexity to guide us forward.
How to Access Your Aesthetic Mind
If you’re wondering how to tap into this part of yourself, here are some ideas:
- Spend Time with Images: Look at art, flip through magazines, or simply close your eyes and visualize. Let images wash over you without analyzing them.
- Engage Your Senses: Get outside, touch, taste, and listen. The more you’re in your body, the more you awaken your aesthetic mind.
- Embrace Uncertainty: Next time you’re stuck, sit with the discomfort instead of rushing to fix it. You might be surprised by what emerges.
- Follow What Feels Beautiful: Whether it’s a melody, a color, or a phrase, beauty points the way to your true self.
Over to You
Do you recognize the aesthetic mind in your life? Maybe in the way you approach a problem, express yourself, or interpret the world around you? Let’s talk about it—this might just be your superpower waiting to be unleashed.
