Imagination in Action: Secrets for Unleashing Creative Expression

by Shaun McNiff

A guide to the theory and practice of creativity, with proven techniques for jump-starting the creative process—from an esteemed art educator and therapist

There are art teachers—and then there’s Shaun McNiff. An accomplished painter himself, he has spent a career helping people access their creative potential through expressive arts therapy. Now, he is sharing the secrets he’s learned from observing his own creative process as well as that of others—both those who identify as artists and those who don’t. The result is nothing less than a master class in creativity by one of the great creative theorists and practitioners of our time.
 
“This is intended as a practical text,” Shaun says, “a creativity primer, striving to capture the essential things that have been of use to me and others.”
 
The wealth of instruction he provides here in these essential things will be indispensable to artists of all stripes, as well as to all who strive to express themselves with honesty and authenticity using any of the media life makes available.

Genres: Nonfiction, Psychology, Art

236 pages, Paperback

First published August 4, 2015

Reviews

[Peaches · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, I typed 9 pages of quotes to use for research from it, so I obviously thought it was really useful. It's different in the fact that it relies solely on McNiff's experiences, but he is established enough to do that. I found his chapters and reflections thoughtful and useful. I wasn't as much of a fan of the coaching tone because I'm using it more from a practitioner standpoint, but he did a good job being encouraging to what I imagine is his intended audience of people less familiar with Expressive Arts.

[Earla]

I wish I knew 'which' friend recommended this book as I'd love to discuss it with them. 'Imagination in Action' is pretty dense as in, the author shares a lot of insights. However, I'm reading it slowly as I appreciate the author's observations regarding art therapy.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

All the good creativity shit