How to find creativity and purpose in the face of adversity | Suleika Jaouad
Mar 6, 2024
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Author Suleika Jaouad shares her journey of finding creativity and purpose in the face of adversity through artistic expression. The conversation explores embracing vulnerability, creative growth, and how curiosity can lead to inspiration even in challenging times.
Following curiosity can lead to inspiration even in challenging circumstances, showcasing the transformative power of artistic expression.
Embracing vulnerability and discomfort fosters genuine human connections, advocating against developing a 'thick skin' for profound personal growth.
Deep dives
How American Symphony Documentary Came to Be
The American Symphony project began with the intention of filming John composing a new symphony that incorporates various music styles. However, Suleika Jowad's cancer relapse and John's numerous Grammy nominations altered the project's course. Despite challenges, they trusted filmmaker Matt Heinemann's cinema verite style, resulting in 1500 hours of footage capturing their contrasting yet creative journey amidst difficult circumstances.
Creative Growth During Challenging Times
Facing a cancer relapse and hospitalization, Suleika Jowad found solace in painting during her recovery. She embraced watercolors for their lack of control, mirroring her circumstances. Jowad viewed survival as a creative act, transforming hospital experiences into art. Her approach highlights the importance of adapting creatively to challenging situations, leading to personal growth and resilience.
Navigating Life Between Illness and Wellness
Having survived cancer, Jowad grappled with redefining herself post-recovery. The transition from patient to survivor presented unexpected emotional challenges. She embarked on a 15,000-mile road trip to connect with individuals who supported her during illness, exploring the uncharted territory of life after cancer treatment. 'Between Two Kingdoms' delves into the liminal space between illness and wellness, focusing on the complexities of moving forward with newfound perspectives.
Embracing Vulnerability and Creativity
Jowad emphasizes the value of vulnerability and embracing discomfort for genuine human connection. She advocates against developing a 'thick skin', opting to experience life fully and authentically. By immersing in both beauty and pain, Jowad finds profound growth. Encouraging others to embrace life's complexities, she highlights the transformative power of vulnerability and creative exploration.
How can you find strength during life's most difficult moments? Author Suleika Jaouad's experience detailed in the documentary "American Symphony," an intimate portrait of her life as she grapples with illness, is a testament to finding a pathway to healing through artistic expression. In this sweeping conversation with TED's Susan Zimmerman, Jaouad reveals how following curiosity can lead to inspiration — even when it feels like there is none to be found. (Visit ted.com/membership to join TED today and access more exclusive events like this one.)