Contrast and why it’s an important even inevitable element for creativity

What does tension have to do with creativity and why do I think it’s one of the most important concepts or principles in approaching floral artistry or any artistic endeavor for that matter? Well, inherent within tension there is a kind of contrasting dynamism at play. And therein lies a spark, which is the quintessence of a creative act.

Differentiation, animation, pleasure, and harmony arise out of contrast. It’s where things like movement, form, sound, color, texture, depth, and tone collide. I think far too often we associate tension with a heightened form of discomfort; an unyielding and immovable force we painstakingly avoid. Yet, tension is merely a point in time and space. It’s what bookends the ‘pause’ or a ‘centerpiece’. It is what is expected prior to slack tide or the breath we take after we’ve depleted one round of oxygen. It can be uncomfortable, but not always.

Contrasting tension is another way of experiencing a harmonic gesture. Pablo Casals hitting that one climactic note in Bach’s Cello Solo Nr.1. or a couple effortlessly dancing. One may lead and one may follow, yet it’s the tension that forms the bond. In order for the partners to dance in seamless unison they must resist the very magnetism they create. Communication is a force and it takes place in the space between them.