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A few random thoughts, which may or may not all be connected further on:
By trying to define “what is art” we’ve killed the ability to put art into anything.
Art isn’t at odds with Science. Or Business. Art, Science and Business are systems of evaluation and design.
If I were to say “let’s approach this scientifically” or “approach this like a business” – most would be pretty clear on what I meant.
We’ve tried to define art based on the output, rather than the process. “Let’s approach this artistically” would essentially mean “let’s make this look good” which of course is entirely subjective.
What if we defined “Art as sublimation” – i.e. “Art is the elevation of an idea or an object to the sublime”
Art is elevating a part of daily life.
Isn’t that what strategy is too?
A sub discipline of this broader definition of art?
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the above was sparked by listening to something about Psychoanalysis and Aesthetics.
A related quote:
“The main reason to study philosophy is to develop your own”
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No Context Screenshot from my notes:
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The freelancer’s dilemma:
“A hyper effective schedule designed to maximize productivity is in fact, more likely to distract you from what’s important than help you discover it.”
Rob Walker’s “The Art of Noticing”
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Downtime at an agency is inevitable. And a great time to look sideways and discover the types of things that will assist in the future.
But when any time spent not working or booking work translates directly to lowering your earning potential, it can be hard to make that time. Especially if you insist on doing all of it during the hours your family is not home.
To be honest, without this newsletter, I don’t think I’d have sufficient motivation to “waste” time with exploration or un-focused link binges.
But I’d be worse for it.
If you charge people money for creative thinking, please – find the time to get lost down rabbit holes.
Here’s a good place to start:
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Matrices are a strong contender for a 4Cs replacement IMO. Harder to just mindlessly fill in.
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Can’t remember if I ever shared this:
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Here’s an article about “Dark Patterns” in design.
Dark patterns, the tricks websites use to make you say yes, explained
So maybe Strategy is Art’s Dark Patterns?
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Downloads:
Brief Lessons in Rule Breaking
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ART AND WEEKLY MONSTER
And artist to follow:
I like because it challenges the assumptions of “artist = individual” and “art is distinct from design/type etc.”
Their non type based work is even cooler IMO tho.
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Epilogue:
I promised a story about paid partnerships. Maybe next week. This already got kinda copy heavy.
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The self plug:
Wanna hire me? You should.
Shoot me an email at alex@stratscraps.com