The Art of Unlearning Things: A Path to Artistic Freedom

“All our education is very much a case of retouching negatives till all the character and individuality is gone.”
| Samuel Butler

In the ever-evolving journey of an artist, learning is often seen as the primary mode of growth. We seek out new techniques, absorb the wisdom of the masters, and refine our skills through continuous practice. Yet, there exists an equally important, albeit less discussed, aspect of artistic evolution: the art of unlearning. Unlearning is the process of shedding preconceived notions, habitual practices, and restrictive beliefs. It is a liberating journey that can profoundly transform one’s creative expression. As photographers and artists, embracing unlearning can lead to a deeper, more authentic connection with our art.

Breaking Free from Conventions

Artistic conventions and techniques, while useful, can sometimes become constraints. They create a framework within which we operate, but this framework can also limit our creativity. Unlearning involves questioning these conventions and daring to step outside the familiar boundaries. It is about recognizing that the rules we follow are not immutable laws but guidelines that can be bent or even broken.

Consider the rule of thirds, a fundamental principle in photography. While it often enhances composition, rigid adherence to it can stifle creativity. Unlearning this rule means understanding its purpose and then exploring beyond it, discovering new ways to frame and perceive the world. This approach can lead to compositions that are more personal and expressive, reflecting the artist’s unique vision rather than a formulaic pattern.

Reclaiming Authentic Vision

As artists, we are constantly influenced by external sources—teachers, peers, trends, and cultural norms. While these influences can enrich our work, they can also drown out our authentic voice. Unlearning is a process of peeling away these external layers to reclaim our true artistic vision. It requires introspection and the courage to let go of what is no longer serving us.

Photographers often begin their journey inspired by iconic images and styles. While this inspiration is crucial, it can also lead to imitation rather than innovation. Unlearning involves recognizing when our work is merely echoing others and making a conscious effort to rediscover our unique perspective. This might mean stepping back from familiar subjects, techniques, or even genres, and venturing into uncharted territory where our authentic voice can emerge.

Embracing Uncertainty and Imperfection

Unlearning is inherently tied to embracing uncertainty and imperfection. The quest for mastery can lead to a fear of making mistakes, causing us to cling to what we know and avoid risks. However, true artistic growth occurs in the space of not knowing, where we allow ourselves to experiment, fail, and learn anew.

In photography, this might mean relinquishing control over certain elements—letting go of the pursuit of technical perfection to capture raw, unfiltered moments. It’s about embracing the grain, the blur, the unexpected light leaks that can turn a photograph into a powerful expression of reality’s imperfections. By unlearning the need for flawless execution, we open ourselves to a more spontaneous and authentic form of creativity.

Rediscovering Playfulness

Children are natural artists, unburdened by the weight of knowledge and expectations. Their creativity is boundless because they approach the world with a sense of wonder and playfulness. Unlearning, in many ways, is a return to this childlike state. It is about shedding the seriousness that often accompanies artistic pursuits and allowing ourselves to play, to experiment without a specific goal or outcome in mind.

For photographers, this might mean picking up a different camera, trying out unconventional shooting techniques, or even deliberately breaking “rules” to see what emerges. It’s about rekindling the joy of discovery that drew us to photography in the first place and remembering that art, at its core, is an act of exploration and expression.

The Endless Journey of Unlearning

Unlearning is not a one-time act but an ongoing process. As we grow and evolve, new habits and beliefs inevitably form. The art of unlearning teaches us to remain flexible, to continually question and reassess our practices and perspectives. It keeps our creative spirit alive, preventing stagnation and fostering continual growth.

As artists, what can we expect from embracing unlearning? We can expect to find a deeper connection with our art, a more authentic expression of our vision, and a renewed sense of joy and freedom in our creative process. We can expect to discover new possibilities and perspectives, transforming not just our art but our understanding of the world and ourselves.

In the end, unlearning is about liberating ourselves from the confines of what we think we know, to truly see, feel, and create anew. It is an art in itself, one that promises a richer, more fulfilling artistic journey. So, let us embrace the art of unlearning and embark on this path of endless discovery and transformation.