Author: Kim Hermanson

DALL·E 2024 12 01 08.29.02 A dynamic and inviting image of a person sitting at a desk writing or sketching in a journal, surrounded by abstract, dreamlike metaphors and images s
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Unlocking creativity through metaphor: Join my workshop at Book Passage

“In the case of every historic scientific discovery and invention that is researched carefully enough, we find that it was imagery, either in dreams or in a waking state, which produced the breakthrough.” —John Curtis Gowan Humans have four ways of knowing: thinking, feeling, physical sensing, and imagination. Yet, in our modern world, we tend…

DALL·E 2024 12 01 08.31.36 An inspiring image of an open book on a wooden table, with soft natural light filtering through a nearby window. Surrounding the book are faint, dream

How metaphors shape our world: Reflections on David Brooks’ ‘poetry for everyday life’

A while back, David Brooks wrote a fascinating New York Times column about the role of metaphor in everyday life, titled Poetry for Everyday Life. Here’s the link: Read the article. One line from the piece has stayed with me: “Even the hardest of the sciences depend on a foundation of metaphors. To be aware…

DALL·E 2024 12 01 08.34.04 A serene and collaborative setting depicting a teacher or facilitator sitting in a circle with a small group of participants, engaged in open dialogue
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Being headless: How to create openness and collaboration in teaching and leadership

When I teach, I aim to work from a place I call “third space.” Third space is a creative state of openness—a space where new possibilities can emerge. To access it, I have to let go of being the “expert” and simply be present with what wants to unfold. The moment I try to control…

DALL·E 2024 12 01 08.36.52 A thought provoking image of a teacher and students sitting in a collaborative circle, with abstract, glowing symbols and energies subtly emerging in
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Tapping unseen energy: The creative power of teaching and imaginal space

The creative process is how we engage with life, and all of us interact with life in different ways. For me, teaching has been my creative passion because it feels like the ultimate “meeting of life.” Every new group is a mystery—you never know who will show up or what challenges and gifts will emerge….

DALL·E 2024 12 01 09.44.13 A cozy and inspiring study setting featuring a person working on a dissertation surrounded by books, art supplies, and abstract symbols subtly floatin

Rethinking PhD dissertations: How imagination can reshape higher education

I recently read The Authentic Dissertation by Trent Jacobs, a thought-provoking book on alternative approaches to doctoral dissertations. It explores using art, fiction, dialogues, indigenous ways of knowing, and other creative methods to complete Ph.D. work. The book made me reflect on my own dissertation experience—one that couldn’t have been further from anything “experimental.” My…

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