THE EXPRESSIVE INSTINCT HOW IMAGINATION AND CREATIVE WORKS HELP US SURVIVE AND T

Selfexpression is a fundamental human drive. The need for selfexpression can occur through many means both creative and mundane. The Expressive Instinct explains how the complexity of human experiences and the need to express them manifests more profoundly when distilled into artforms and dispels the idea that creativity is the domain of a select gifted few. The book explores the questions What is the purpose of art in our lives Could the desire for beauty to be surrounded by elements of nature be an innate need Are art and creative expression essential for a good life In this book Dr. Kaimal links over 10 years of research theories of evolutionary biology brain sciences as well as her own lifelong journey as an artist scholar and educator in many personal and professional roles textile designer art therapist researcher and educator. This book makes the case for why we as human beings need to stay creative and not lose our abilities to channel our inner lives in adaptive expressive ways. The arts the book argues are a container for the range of human experiences. Creative expression helps us practice and externalize imagination which in turn helps build resilience for dealing with uncertainty and change.