Juxtapose is, first and foremost, a fun word to use. It looks cool and makes you sound smart. Two pluses in my book (and I only put pluses in my book).

It also means, in essence, to place two different things together, often to bring out the contrast between them.

Colors are a great example of this. Complementary colors (the ones opposite on the color wheel) help draw one another out and make for a more striking image.

The technique of juxtaposition in creativity is so common that I can’t really think of an example where it can be used in a non-creative way (though I’m sure it’s possible, in some universe somewhere).

Place a chainsaw next to your pillow and you’ll see what I mean. A word of caution when you do: some pillows have sharp corners.

In my usual perusal of the internet in the hunt for creativity, I’ve found two excellent stories containing a good dose of juxtaposition. You may even say the stories themselves are juxtaposed. If you did, I’d say you’re trying a little too hard. But what do I know?

The first is about Tong Li, a Chinese man who uses magic (the slight-of-hand performance sort, not the Harry Potter sort) to teach. This includes complex scientific concepts like quantum entanglement as well as technology like app development.

Read all about it here:

Grad student’s magic sparks creativity in the classroom

I gotta say, Tong is my hero of the week, maybe even month. I use the term hero loosely here. What I mean is, I’ve got a lot of respect for the guy.

The second story covers scientists and artists (of the more traditional variety) working together for the benefit of all.

In short, the scientists help the arts make new and interesting art and the artists help the scientist look at their work in new ways.

To drop a quote

“…the artists make us see the world from a different perspective. The creative dialog sparks ideas in both.”

One artist even found a way to creatively express the tedium, the “sit around and wait” parts, of scientific study.

It’s good stuff, people. You can read about it right here:

Scientists Working With Artists to Boost Creativity

So, if you ever feel a wee bit stuck, why not try adding in something completely different to the mix? Or consult someone who works in an entirely different field. You may be surprised what the two of you come up with.

I guarantee you it’ll be better than my pillow chainsaw, which is now completely jammed with stuffing. On the bright side, my pillows are no longer a danger to society. That’s another plus in my book.