Mon 19 Jan 2009
Twyla Tharp on the Subject of Motivation and Creativity
Posted by echan76 under News
Beware of Hype and Stay Focused and Learn to Be Creative, Says Dance Great Twyla Tharp
Tywla Tharp is the most celebrated choreographers of her generation. She happens to be a very compelling writer on the subject of motivation and creativity.
Her book The Creative Habit is handbook in personal discipline and creative growth. Twyla is evangelist for her body of work. In addition to choreographing new ballets, she is motivational speaker at organizations including NASA and GE.
She told me that creativity must be a personal undertaking — and it can’t be constructed for fame and fortune — it needs to done as serious and honest work — and if it succeeds, the money and accolades will come.
See this video on Beet.TV:
http://www.beet.tv/2007/02/beware_of_hype_.html
That’s one of the best explanations of FAIL that I’ve ever seen!
I understand what this artist is talking about. Even in business, money is the worst motivation to use. THe focus instead should be on the task at hand, whether its a report or a combination of steps in a dance routine. Doing a good job, performance et al. Then the money will take care of itself.
Its a process I know. But a means that works.
Im a Tharp!
this isn’t loading into my computer well but i love tywla’s works
This is a very inspiring interview. I really liked what she said in the end… so encouraging…
Great. Had these questions in mind- about Twyla and her work. In early years she was almost inaccessible (in her own space although on stage - not seeming so easy with her connection to the audience - she often did not LOOK or have her dancers look at the audience- we got to view an exprience that seemed almost private) It has been interesting to see her work grow and change, developing ease with communicating to an audience. Enjoy the maturer woman, dancer, moving and speaking out!
Twyla Tharp has always been one of my secret mentors. Even though I am a painter and can’t dance a step, I found her work and words to be AWE inspiring! I still do. Thank you for this video!
A brilliant lady she is, and a true “war horse” in the army of 20th century contemporary choreographers. You GO, Twila!
Twyla is a warrior