Brainstorming is a problem solving activity that we all use
when we are presented with a problem to solve. Even when the solution seems
instantaneous, a bit of the brainstorming thinking process has occurred to
limit the thought of too many possible solutions. Brainstorming can be a
controlled exercise using a variety of techniques to stimulate creative
solutions to a visual problem. It provides a method of forming random thoughts
into thought patterns that provide a coherent interpretation of a subject.
Brainstorming emphasizes the problem solving process and deemphasizes the solution. The result
is a less predictable, less stereotypical set of ideas and sketches.
Brainstorming Techniques
Thought Juxtaposition
Thought juxtaposition is based on the concept of paring up
two or more divergent thoughts and eventually evaluating their relationship.
It’s a way of thinking about a problem, backwards and forwards. Metaphorically
speaking, it’s a way of examining both sides of a coin. Unless we are able to
look at both the front and the back of a coin, or a problem for that matter, we
cannot truly understand its’ significance. This brainstorming method discards a
single directional approach to thinking in favor of a bidirectional, or even a
multidirectional approach.
Opposites
Whether you are a glass half empty, or glass half full
person, “opposites” is a dynamic way of applying thought juxtaposition to look
at a problem both negatively and positively. In the illustration business,
negative thinking is generally considered to be non-productive, but used to
brainstorm with, it can be quite the opposite. Negative thinking works by
channeling our uncertainty about a subject. In brainstorming, uncertainty
provides the flexibility for us to keep pondering ideas, and avoid becoming
stifled.
Stage One
Opposites is a two-stage process, the stages can be done in
tandem or separately. The first activity involves brainstorming to record
random thoughts about a problem or a subject. The thoughts can be negative or positive considerations of the problem. They can be recorded as words or as simple thumbnail sketches before they are combined to create compound ideas for presentation to the client. Below is a partial selection of stage one word thoughts that were generated to produce an illustrated icon on brainstorming.
Locked Unearthed Thoughtless Hollow Stuck Trapped
Stage Two
Stage two is the search for opposites or antonyms of the
original set of thoughts about the problem. Here are the opposite matches to
the original inspirations. The six original terms led to six sets of juxtaposing words. The sets can then be used as pairs, or split up to become twelve individual words that can then be cross-combined to create unanticipated results. Below are a few sketches.
Locked >> Opened Buried
>> Unearthed Thoughtless >>
Thought Full
Hollow >>
Solid Stagnation
>> Growth Trapped >> Freed
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| Unlocked vision. © 2013 Don Arday. |
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| Though full input. © 2013 Don Arday. |
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| Hold that thought. © 2013 Don Arday. |
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| Germinated ideas. © 2013 Don Arday. |
For negative brainstorming to become productive, it is important to complete the cycle of juxtaposing opposing
pairs of relationships. Opposites lead to contrast, which in turn adds a certain
amount of tension and narrative interest. This method of conceptualizing can yield extremely positive results.
