Oi! News: Hyper-Observing
As lockdown restrictions begin to lift there’s a buzz of excitement stirring on the surface. But underneath the optimism it’s likely that some may be feeling overwhelmed at the thought of returning to “normal” life, and going back to the way it was. Some artists have thoroughly enjoyed lockdown as it has boosted productivity thanks to less distractions. Others however, may have struggled to find focus and inspiration.
Creativity Coach & Mentor Paul ‘Nobby’ Davies has some great tips for creators. He’s an expert in Hyper-Observing and its benefits for creativity.
As we’re released from isolation, we’ll be returning to places or spaces we haven’t visited for a while. Take advantage of this says Nobby. Observe the space with a fresh set of eyes, as if you are seeing it for the first time. This can be really inspiring, you’ll see things differently.
Nobby shares the benefits of hyper-observing: boosting creativity, enhancing inspiration, allowing you to see the world differently, which can ultimately lead to a heightened sense of wonder.
“I truly believe that cultivating the habits of a
Hyper-Observer is the key to enhanced creativity.
Constantly searching out stimuli that turn into nourishment for creative expression.
Put simply: Input in = Output out.
By optimising your senses to explore the world with such attention, you begin to detect stuff that passes the less observant by.
This gives you the advantage of being able to create things that others don’t.”
“With life’s movements restricted by the pandemic, hyper observing is a really useful tool to try and see something new in the familiarity of our every day views, celebrating the things hidden in plain sight ”
Rob Draper’s hyper-observed visual interpretation of light captured in-camera
Paul ‘Nobby’ Davies’s ceiling meets skylight
Tips to take away:
Don’t rush - this applies to coming out of quarantine and to creativity in general - slow looking is key to making the ordinary extraordinary.
Stay curious - question things more. For example, the next time you pick up an object, really look at it and ask yourself why does this look like it does and for what reason?
Capture the moment, digital and analogue - take a photo, draw a sketch, make a voice note
We’d love to see your hyper-observations. Tag #OiHyperObserver to share yours!