The creative process and detachment is an interesting topic due to the paradox of pouring one’s heart and soul into a creation, only to then detach from it, is a central theme in many spiritual and artistic traditions spanning across cultures and artistic practices, and I’d like to explore these ideas further with you.

I recently covered the Buddhism concept of non-attachment, which is seen as a path to enlightenment. The creation of sand mandalas being a perfect embodiment of this principle. However this practice isn’t limited to Buddhist traditions.  Many artists across cultures and mediums find that the act of creation itself is the most fulfilling part of their work, rather than the finished product.

Recently I spoke to an artist who paints for her livelihood. She sits for ten hours a day painting very intricate vignettes. She says she is so entranced in this process she often forgets to eat, sleep, move or do anything else.   She has sold and released hundreds of paintings but doesn’t get attached to any one painting.  This example of the young painter who loses herself in her work for hours exemplifies this. The state of flow she experiences during creation is often more valuable and meaningful than the final piece.

In energy exchange and artistic purpose many artists view their work as a conduit for emotion, ideas, or spiritual energy. In this sense, the artwork becomes a medium of communication that transcends words, allowing the artist to share something of themselves with the world.  The release of the artwork into the world can be seen as completing this circle of energy exchange.

"Aji" in Japan refers to the concept of appreciating an object's value over time. This idea of appreciating an object’s value over time stands in stark contrast to the disposable culture often seen in many parts of the world today.  It’s closely related to other Japanese concepts like “wabi-sabi” (finding beauty in imperfection) and “mottaninai” (regret over waste).

The Japanese folklore in tsukumogami (objects gaining a spirit after long use) is a fascinating concept.  It adds a layer of animism to everyday objects, encouraging people to treat them with respect and care.  This belief system naturally leads to a more sustainable approach to consumption and ownership.

If we all practiced mindful consumerism by adopting practices such as:

• Buying less but higher quality
• Seeking out artisan made goods
• Using objects until they’re truly no longer functional
• Repurposing or properly disposing of items
• Appreciating the energy and craftsmanship in objects

We can indeed make significant positive changes in our environmental impact and our relationship with material possessions.

By embracing Wabi-Sabi, it can lead to a more fulfilling relationship with our possessions. By finding beauty in imperfection and age, we can keep objects longer and develop a deeper appreciation for them over time.

As I have tied together various cultures and traditions, highlighting a more mindful and appreciative approach to creation, consumption and material possessions. I think about entering the holiday season  and the relevance of mindful purchasing as well as a deeper appreciation of the creative journey behind objects.  It reminds us to consider the full cycle of creation and consumption, and to find meaning and connection in the objects we choose to bring into our lives.