Author Jordana Wright investigates the relationship between cannabis use and artistic expression in her book, Cannabis for Creatives. Using interviews and anecdotes she explores the different experiences of various artist with cannabis to highlight its role in the creative process. As a photographer, cannabis user and advocate, the author presents her analysis in a broad cultural and historical context and addresses the potential challenges and controversies surrounding cannabis use, acknowledging the legal and social implications.
Background material on cannabis sets the stage for the 32 interviews that are the heart of the book. Wright describes the use of cannabis through history, the nature of creativity, the effect of cannabis on the brain, cannabis species and strains, anatomy of the plant, growth cycle, harvesting buds, and methods of consumption. Numerous photographs and pertinent quotes from artists enhance the text and aid in understanding.
The heart of the book is the interviews of artist from a wide range of backgrounds and artistic endeavors. While there are the traditional musicians, painters, sculptors, actors, writers and photographers there are also art directors, chefs, and a drag queen. Wright set out with a list of questions for the interviews but found that the interview sometimes took on a life of its own. Pictures of the artist’s work are included where possible which allows a deeper appreciation for the words of the artist. Some artist found cannabis a tool to break through creative blocks, while other founds inspiration in the sensory enhancement it provides. The experiences of the various artists were very individual emphasizing that creativity is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon.
Cannabis for Creatives with its thoughtful analysis and artist interviews is a good source of material for understanding the relationship between cannabis and creativity. Wright’s clear, conversational style results in an informative and thought provoking work. The plant’s ability to alter perception, enhance introspection, and promote divergent thinking is well known but the complexity of individual responses, legal issues, and the need for more scientific research are important reasons to keep an open mind as more information comes to light.
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Karen