Cannabis and Creativity: What Users and Artists Really Report

While there may be a long-standing belief that cannabis will somehow unlock that hidden creative gene — that one hit will turn you into a poet — the truth, according to artists and musicians and even everyday people who have smoked or vaped before creating something, is so much more complex and subtle.

That being said, creativity induced from cannabis is not necessarily about becoming a more talented person. Rather, it’s about viewing things differently (if only for a little while).

Wonder what those differences look like? Browse the full range of cannabis with creative effect in the UK on Canna City and find the profile that fits your process.

Why Do Artists Smoke/Vape Before Creating?

If you were to ask ten artists why they smoke or vape before a creative session, you would likely receive ten somewhat different answers. However, when asked to boil down their reasons, several commonalities emerge:

• Less self-editing. Several individuals described having a “quieter inner critic,” i.e., the internal dialogue that typically tells you “no way — that’s stupid” has decreased in volume allowing you to let more of your raw ideas pass without judgment.
• More unusual connections. Individuals frequently report having ideas that drift off in new directions, connecting concepts that might never otherwise relate to each other.
• Time appears to slow. Sessions may seem to last longer, and/or appear to be more immersive; both of these aspects are reported as beneficial for working on a single piece of art rather than rapidly switching back-and-forth.
• Different sensory experiences. Color, texture, etc. are reported as being more vibrant; color in particular is also reported as being more noticeable and richer; benefits both visual artists and musicians.

What the Science Actually Says

To put it bluntly: cannabis is excellent at opening doors (as a stimulant) but poor at completing the rooms (as a productive substance).

Low Dose vs. High Dose: A Very Basic Breakdown

Keep in mind that this represents a general observation — not a definitive rule — because the impact of strain, tolerance levels, etc. greatly affect how effective cannabis is at providing creative inspiration.

What Artists Have Said About Their Experience With Cannabis

When discussing music, musicians frequently comment on how the experience of listening before playing has changed due to cannabis. More specifically, layers in a mix appear easier to dissect, and rhythm appears more fluid.

In regards to painting and illustration, artists note an increased awareness of colors and textures. Furthermore, many painters and illustrators report an increase in willingness to intentionally leave a mistake in their work versus quickly attempting to correct it.

As for writers, opinions vary widely. Some writers find cannabis to be an ideal medium for producing an initial messier draft, whereas others report that it creates significant difficulties during the editing phase.

What matters more than indica/Sativa?

Many users have reported:

• Energy, socialness and idea generation when using Sativa-dominant strains
• More contemplative or sensory-oriented experiences with indica-dominant strains
• A Hybrid experience from a “Hybrid” strain (a cross between two other strains) that provides a middle-of-the-road experience; this type of strain seems to be favored by those looking to spend longer periods engaged in some sort of creative activity.

Ultimately, the Cannabinoid and terpene profiles are going to matter more than just whether or not the strain is indica-Sativa labeled. With that said, consider this when making a choice.

Are you interested in finding the ideal cannabis profile to fit into your creative process? Look at our available sativas for creativity and energy, indicas for a more relaxed focus on sensation, and our Hybrid options if you want to create all day long!

The unspoken truth

As with most things in life, creativity is very subjective. Cannabis can certainly provide inspiration but ultimately it is a variable, not a guarantee.

There was a consensus on one thing throughout the interviews we conducted as well as the surveys we took part in: start with small amounts, understand your own routines, and view cannabis as one of many tools at your disposal rather than a crutch.

Are you ready to explore your own creative flow? Browse through all of our products today at Canna City to find what works best for you. And to stay up to date with our latest arrivals, product releases, and special offers, join our official Telegram cannabis channel.