The power of images to unlock creativity and breakthroughs
Humans have been harnessing the power of inner images since pre-historic times, when tribes painted their visions onto cave walls. Psychologist David Premack noted, “The original and basic unit of mental activity, which remains the psyche’s preferred way of operating, is the image.”
Across centuries, imagery has sparked innovation, with countless scientific discoveries emerging from visions… in dreams or waking states.
By tapping into the profound influence of images, we can unlock new levels of creativity and insight, paving the way for breakthroughs in all areas of life. It’s time we paid closer attention to the transformative power of imagery.
Dr. Kim Hermanson helps creatives, pioneers, and seekers break free from linear thinking and access a deeper, more expansive intelligence through metaphor. An educator and adjunct professor at Pacifica Graduate Institute, she guides people into the mind’s third space—an untapped field of profound beauty and knowing. Learn more at MetaphorMind Lab.
Years ago, when I began teaching, I struggled with structure. I envisioned classes that were free and spontaneous, where everyone could fully express themselves. To…
I’ve worked directly with metaphor for 30 years, both professionally and personally, and there’s one image that has never let me go: I’m a plant…
Metaphor lies at the heart of nearly every significant scientific breakthrough in history. Celebrated scientists like Niels Bohr, Richard Feynman, and Albert Einstein relied on…
For years, I’ve been fascinated by the concept of genius—not as something lofty or exclusive, but as something we all possess if we choose to…
The creative process is often romanticized, but it’s far from tidy or predictable. Here are five things you might not know about creativity—and why it…
I recently had a thought-provoking conversation with a friend about whether the images and metaphors that surface in our subconscious are “real.” Like dreams, I…