Creativity in a Relational Perspective

We have inherited a strongly individualistic view of creativity from Western culture and psychologists studying creativity are typically taught to study the individual mind and behavior focusing on cognitive processes and behavioral actions. Much attention has been paid to people who are considered as “specially gifted and talented”, without taking in consideration the importance and significant role of relationships, the learning environment and the social and cultural context. Most of what we have read until now in creativity literature about artists and highly creative people is based on the myth of the lone genius or the misunderstood, “antisocial” outsider working within a solitary venue. Instead of seeing the artist as an isolated individual, my paper focuses mainly on the impact of relational factors that seem conducive to creativity.