Anatomy of Genius

I think we all have an underlying structure of genius in us, that is expressed through our art practices. Whenever we start out with our practice, we can only do a reverse comparison of the knowledge that is already present outside with the feeling on our inside. So we read books, take classes, watch videos, practice, learn, and research ( searching again?). In this process we take in matters from those who have been in this field, or realm before us and practiced it successfully, or failed in it.

But as we grow with our art, we need to realize the unique nature of our individualistic wiring and experiences.

If we divide the journey of an artist in three acts

Act I consists of identifying and choosing your art form, while the world tries to tell you to conform to the premade structure in society for comfortable unremarkable existence. You have to break free from these chains and follow your calling like a fool.

(Also, learn to be okay with failing expectations and trusting the universe)

Act II consists of taking in as much information and experience as we can from the existing masters and material of the craft and experimenting with it so that we understand the cosmic function of the craft and the place or purpose that we individually play in it.

This tends to be the longest for most of the geniuses I know. Now, during this phase you recognize the underlying vocabulary of expressions for your art. Not a formula, or a story, but only basic units of expression and values. These work like the alphabets of your art dictionary.
When you start seeing the alphabets clearly, you slowly transition into

Act III

Once you understand the vocabulary of expression,the core of your practice , you begin feeling the traces of it in everyone around you, experience this immense love for the world, and begin to see glimpses of the grand plan. It might be eluding and distracting but remember to trust what your heart wants!

This is the part of the story of genius that we read, or hear about in most success stories. It leaves out the two major acts that build the vision to see the underlying structure of genius that is masked in us, by the weight of existence in a limited form.

Once you discover your words, you won’t be like anyone else, you will be limitless like the universe.