Dear Creativity,
As I look around my home, I am reminded of the boundless potential of our partnership and the innovative spirit that resides within everyone. Home to most is a physical place, but it can be what we make of our circumstances and who we surround ourselves with. I know that not everyone has a shelter to call home, but I hope that we can all define home to be where we are in heart, mind, and spirit with some of your ingenuity at the helm. Today, I want to share with you some creative ways through which I have been fostering innovation right here, within the cozy confines of my home.
You see, Creativity, home has become more than just a place of comfort; it has evolved into a canvas for innovation, a playground for novel ideas, and a sanctuary of inspiration. The constraints provided by the size of the space have led me to journey with you to venture beyond the traditional boundaries of an office or makerspace to blossom amidst the everyday moments of life.
One of the creative endeavors that have captivated my attention is the design of my home office/creative studio. It has been a canvas for innovation that has undergone many iterations. I’ve experimented with different setups, and I can feel your guidance as I seek the ideal blend of functionality and aesthetics. Thinking about my ergonomic needs, lighting needs, and creative needs has sent me to seek inspiration online and listen to what my inner voice states to be home. I have had to seek solutions to problems ranging from, how to best light my dark skin tone and curly hair in a Zoom meeting. With improper lighting, I am a dark shadow in a box. If I use a virtual background, I look like I have a helmet head and you cannot see the definition of my beautiful curly locks that are an integral part of who I am. We partnered to find solutions using a range of light sources and crafting an office background (Zoom background) that represented my good-hearted nature.
DIY projects have also become my source of inspiration. Whether it’s crafting furniture, creating art, or simply embellishing my living space with personalized decor, I’ve marveled at how a dash of creativity can transform the mundane into something extraordinary. I get excited by the pride instilled in finishing such projects. In my creative studio, I have a beautiful convertible table that I tuck in a corner. However, the table was so heavy that it would not function to put it into a usable state on command. Enter an IKEA hack and YouTube. With a drill and some wheels, I am now able to move from the stored table to the working table in a few seconds.
In the digital realm, I’ve grown curious about the ability of my smart home devices to work effectively for me and my partner. These devices are not always smart and definitely have some faults (I am still trying to figure out why our Google Home only recognizes my husband, a white male, and not me when I pass it in the morning.) but with your magic, Creativity, we have been able to make them work for us. Due to the innovative possibilities you inspire, Creativity, my life is filled with convenience, efficiency, and even a bit of frustration.
Cooking in our home is a culinary adventure. How can you resist trying new recipes or techniques when the inspiration is readily available? It’s a delightful playground of flavors where you, Creativity, have played a pivotal role. Your role is also apparent in my porch oasis project, to the addition of plants, and the storage of items. I am excited to look to you for guidance and inspiration in my future home gardening adventures. Hydroponic herb garden anyone?
As an innovator, I’ve seen the potential for innovation in the most unexpected places. Even in daily chores, like cleaning and organizing, there are opportunities to develop innovative hacks and efficient systems. In the world of digital art and design, I’ve embraced your influence, exploring graphic design, digital illustration, and even web development. It’s amazing how technology can amplify your creative voice, allowing us to express ideas in unique ways. I’ve also found solace in journaling and creative writing. These creative outlets not only serve as a release for my thoughts and emotions but also as fertile ground for ideation, storytelling, and self-expression.
Creativity, our journey at home has been nothing short of transformative. Through each endeavor, you’ve illuminated the path of innovation, reminding me that innovation isn’t confined to tech offices or design studios — it thrives wherever passion and creativity unite. I hope that my readers find one small place to infuse you into their everyday lives to come up with an innovative solution that transforms their challenges into home delights.
Innovatively Yours,
Dr. Abigail
