I am not sure why things pop in my head when they do but they just do, I have to share this PoP. I am currently reading the book "The Element" by Sir Ken Robinson where he talks about people being in 'their element' in regards to being creative and imaginative and that all of us have this within. Ken talks about the development of peoples talents and how they come about - not always through good luck and opportunity but sometimes through hard work and taking chances. So far the book has lived up to my expectations and is not shall we say one of those over the top self help books.
Whilst reading the book I could not help but think about the new series of 'Australian Idol' that we watched as a family tonight on TV. This series was of particular interest to me as I wanted to see how 10 would deal or show Kyle Sandilands who recently was involved in the on-air radio stunt involving the questioning of a 14 year old girl who said she was raped at 12. There are deeper questions here about the research of the show, the ability for on-air talent to respond appropriately and also the parent who obviously encouraged and knew more about the incident and should have know better - I will leave these for others to discuss.
For the most part 10 showed Kyle as per past seasons - being the judge that made the rude comments, that looked the contestants up and down and really laid on the sarcastic put downs. And it was this that got me thinking about the creativity in people - sure many that auditioned were not the best singers or performers or did not look the greatest but hell they gave it a shot. They signed up, waited in long queues and took their spot in front of the judges, only to be ridiculed and put down in most cases. I sat with my children watching and then in the ad breaks watched them sing and dance as if in the audition for the show and I noticed that my children were aware of the expectations of the judges about being good or bad - and all I could think of is this the start of the rot. Is this one of the avenues that subconsciously starts to drive creativity and imagination towards the back of the room to be parked for little use later? I am sure it is.
For me what idol needs is a sister program, almost like a repercharge round or new competition. Where we celebrate those that have had a shot - missed (and possibly by a long way) and then give them the support, encouragement and people to help train and unleash their creative musical sides. Imagine a show for one of the second digital channels where those without courage to fail are given the strength to shine - that would be great.
We need to make front and center the celebration of trying to be creative and innovative so that we build this value into our lives.
I think I would even have a go at auditioning!
