Creativity is undoubtedly an innate human process. We exist because we were created, we are perpetually making new experiences, stories and even cells, and even when we die our matter goes into new creations, whether animal, mineral or vegetable. But a creative practice? This involves some kind of intentional commitment, and sharing this work? This involves opening a dialogue with others around our creative practice. But what if no-one’s paying attention? Inside this week’s episode, Isobel asks whether it’s all ‘still worth it’.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
{00:00} Intro
{03:33} Why I’m Recording This Episode
{08:59} How My Own Motivations For Creating Have Changed Over Time
{19:38} The Noble (But Nearly Impossible) ‘Cliche’
{20.58} The Value Of Making Art, For Art’s Sake
{27:40} When It’s Not Just ‘Art For Art’s Sake’
{32:56} Why It’s Not All Just About ‘Getting Attention’
{34:10} ‘Getting Attention’ Vs 'Paying Attention’
{37:43} What Does This All Mean?
{39:13} Summary & Next Week’s Teaser
Rate and review the podcast >>
REFERENCES
The Person Behind the Mask, Linda H. Hamilton >>
David Bowie on making your best work >>
Why We Make Art, UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Centre >>
Kate Nash on Instagram, ‘Woke up feeling BITTAH about my industry’ >>
Rebecca Solnit, Recognitions of my Non Existence (2020) >>
Katy Waldman on Recognitions of my Non Existence in the New Yorker >>
Rebecca Solnit, The Mother of All Questions (2017) >>
How craving attention makes you less creative | Joseph Gordon-Levitt >>
Girls Twiddling Knobs NYE Special with Gascia Ouzounian >>
Listen to the episode here
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Girls Twiddling Knobs has ended, but you can stay connected to Isobel's artistic work here.
Girls Twiddling Knobs was hosted by Isobel Anderson and produced by Isobel Anderson and Jade Bailey from Nov 2020-Jan 2026 and will remain live on all major podcast platforms throughout 2026.
We are grateful to the British Library who have archived the podcast in their Sound and Vision Collection.
Learn more about the Girls Twiddling Knobs legacy here.
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