Planning vs. Experimentation

 Today marks the last day of teaching for the Spring semester.

I learned so much from teaching at the school. I may be the one leading the class, giving out critiques, advices, and lectures, but the actions and responses the students offer back are far more valuable.

One student managed to create a fantastic short film out of only sticky notes. The sticky notes came in various bright colors. This resulted in a flashing, psychedelic approach to the film, which paired very nicely with his narrative story. He mentioned that he did not even think about the different tones his sticky notes have, but rather simply thought it was a waste not to use them. I found that to be extremely enlightening. A great film can be produced from an accidental discovery.

I believe over planning can kill an idea. Too much preparation for a project can result in a dull, redundant work. There needs to be room for experimentation. Sometimes you just need to make something out of sheer curiosity.

I find that to be similar to driving. On days when I leave work at a bad rush hour, I would rather drive through the local streets rather than the usual route. The destination is still the same, yet the drive home is a lot less painful and boring. I'm much more alert and focused when I'm driving in an unfamiliar street. I'm also able to discover new areas and take in the scenic views. The same thought can be applied to filmmaking- why make things more painful by planning everything ahead? Where's the joy to making art with that? We should embrace getting lost a little.

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