- Collection
- Creation
- Culmination
- Communication
In the first of the C’s the artist is collecting information from reference libraries, google image search or conceptual art. They can also be collecting information from requesting Designers or Art Directors. There is opportunity to communicate in this phase. As a manager, this is the time for you to ask questions like “Is there any other information you need” and to perhaps point out online or network resources the other artists use.
Next, is the Creation phase. This is where the artist executes. Singular Focus is paramount here. Get out of the way. If you are having one on one’s while the artist is in the creation phase, you should ask questions like “Are you facing any distractions?” and other questions on process.
The Culmination Phase is the post mortem. Did the artist meet the goals of the task? What particular processes did they use? Should they show any techniques to other artists? What didn’t work as well as they desired?
The fourth C is communication. Some of the other focus areas require communication with large numbers of other people. The creation process requires almost none. By mindful of when communication is needed and when it’s not.
Development is non-linear. Anyone can be flipping between phases and actually in more than one phase at a time. However, trying to isolate the process can be a worthwhile investment. Knowing when and what phase your Artists in can give you a clear idea of what they need at certain times. Try it, modify it to your needs, and let me know what you come up with.