I read a post on the IMA blog written by Phillip Lynam about the inherent creativity in people. He tells of a program at the IMA where people are invited to create their own artwork. However, most adults think it is a “child’s activity” and refrain, or refuse when urged by IMA workers. Most give the excuse that they aren’t creative or that they cannot draw…But, as Mr. Lynam points out, no child EVER gives that excuse. It seems as though everyone is creative or has creativity inside them. But, as we’ve grown older and put away our toys; our crayons and Play-doh get put away with them.
I actually remember in my art theory class discussing whether creativity was a common trait throughout humanity or whether it was a gift only given to certain people. My answer was that it was both. I think that everyone is creative, and I think this is indicative of the fact that we are made in the image of God, creator of the universe. However, I do not limit creativity to visual arts. Creativity is the ability to make something that did not exist before, whether it is a song, or book, or painting, or scientific theory, or a quick game to appease whining children. And we see in Exodus 31:1-5 that God specifically gives people talent and abilities in the arts, as is the case with Bezalel in that passage.