The Science of Creativity: The 5 Stages Every Innovator Must Experience

Phase 1: The Consumer

• Historical Example: Pablo Picasso, as a young artist, absorbed the works of the Old Masters like El Greco and Velázquez, studying their techniques before developing his unique style.

• Scientific Insight: Cognitive psychology tells us that passive consumption is the first step to creative development. Mirror neurons in our brain allow us to “experience” what we see or hear, laying the groundwork for future creativity.

• Quote: “Good artists copy; great artists steal.” — Pablo Picasso

Phase 2: The Collector/Curator

• Historical Example: Walt Disney, before creating the Disney empire, was an avid collector of stories, often curating tales from European folklore (like Cinderella and Snow White) and adapting them into films.

• Scientific Insight: Curating ideas is crucial for creators. Research on the “Knowledge Accumulation Process” shows that individuals who systematically collect ideas build a deeper understanding and gain new perspectives.

• Quote: “Curiosity about life in all of its aspects, I think, is still the secret of great creative people.” — Leo Burnett

Phase 3: Comprehend

• Historical Example: Leonardo da Vinci not only consumed information but deeply comprehended it. He studied anatomy, physics, and nature, mastering subjects before incorporating them into his work.

• Scientific Insight: Comprehension engages critical thinking and deep learning processes. Neurological studies show that understanding concepts deeply activates the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for creative problem-solving.

• Quote: “Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.” — Leonardo da Vinci

Phase 4: Compilation

• Historical Example: Ludwig van Beethoven, inspired by earlier composers like Mozart, compiled his musical knowledge to compose symphonies that reshaped the boundaries of classical music.

• Scientific Insight: Compiling is similar to synthesizing information. Neuroscience research indicates that creating new combinations from existing ideas stimulates the brain’s associative networks, a key factor in creativity.

• Quote: “To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.” — Ludwig van Beethoven

Phase 5: Creator

• Historical Example: Vincent van Gogh consumed and compiled various influences, from Japanese art to Impressionism, and comprehended them in a way that allowed him to create his own unmistakable style.

• Scientific Insight: The act of creation involves the brain’s default mode network, which is active during spontaneous, creative thought. Studies on “flow states” suggest that when creators are deeply engaged, they experience heightened creativity and productivity.

• Quote: “I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream.” — Vincent van Gogh