Group creativity in the popular visual culture of Asian ethnic groups: A model for art education

There are many theories about the nature of creativity. This paper compares a micro (individual-based) approach to creativity with a macro (group-based) approach in the context of popular visual culture, reporting on the creativity of Asian ethnic dōjinshi groups in Hong Kong and Taiwan. These groups of amateur creators share an interest in working collaboratively to produce artwork. The study not only finds that these groups express creativity autonomously, but also reveals the unique creativity and spirit of cultural exposure in groups. Its research findings suggest that a collaborative approach to making art could provide a model for art education and that educators should reconsider group dynamics in the visual culture context. Copyright © 2011 Art Education Australia.