To see an example of how a student became more creative using influences from an art show at the Port Angeles Fine Art Center click here:

synthesis as a creative tool using a PAFAC art exhibit

here is another way of thinking about creativity; an  approach to fostering a talent:

A five step plan for developing a talent ….
I found this in a book review (attributed below) and I think it really rings true… read it and reflect upon with some strength or talent that you have been able to develop…. see what you think….
Q: What is the five-step plan that promotes talents and strengths?

A: The first step is to connect with a teacher, a coach, a mentor, a supervisor, a friend (and don’t forget God or whatever your spiritual life leads you toward). Once you feel connected, you will feel safe enough to go to step 2, which is to play. In play, you discover your talents and strengths. Play includes any activity in which your brain lights up and you get imaginatively involved. When you find some form of play you like, you do it over and over again; this is step 3, practice. As you practice, you get better; this is step 4, mastery. When you achieve mastery, other people notice and give you recognition; this is step 5. Recognition in turn connects you with the people who recognize and value you, which brings you back to step 1, connect, and deepens the connection.

No matter what your age, you can use this five-step process to promote talents and strengths. Beware, however, of jumping in at step 3. That’s the mistake many parents, teachers, coaches, and managers in the workplace make: they demand practice and offer recognition as the reward. This leads to short-term achievement but fatigue and burnout in the long run.

For the cycle to run indefinitely and passionately, it must generate its own enthusiasm and energy, not be prodded by external motivators. To do that, the cycle must start in connection and play.

From
Delivered from Distraction
Written by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey, M.D.

Quoted from Randomhouse on line bookseller
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780345490988&view=excerpt