12 years ago
Roadtrip review: suggested applications for creativity in the Law School environment.

On a lovely spring afternoon, I found myself sitting in as a visitor on one of University of Virginia’s Law School classes. Since an arts and  administration background prepared me very poorly for the constitutional law subject, my only clue for the right time to be paying attention was the increasing sound wave of students’ fingertips hitting the laptop keyboards.

Being able to analytically look at the big picture and as well as study the correct components up close, is something that Law students need to possess in their arsenal of skills. But is there any room for creativity in that same environment? I believe so.

The ability to become a better observer is one of the best byproducts of creative activities and an important skill in the legal field. I would recommend creative after-school activities with focus on reproduction and mindfulness (still life drawing or sculpture from the visual arts field) and carefully pre-selected art placement through the waiting areas of the building, the areas where a positive distraction is needed.

From the performing arts – occasional improv theater exercises as well as acting could be used to enhance their public speaking skills. Although we may not openly admit it, speaking in front of the jury comprised of ordinary citizens does require acting skills – the talent to convince with confidence, a clear presentation of facts via the personality of the deliverer.

But the most important benefit of introducing creative after-class activities to Law Schools is that creativity is a proven antidote to stress. Taking the students minds off their constant analytical rumination and letting them use their hands and bodies in the “arts” mode would provide for a healthier balance of the right/left brain thinking and relax their minds so that they can approach their issues from a different perspective and find creative solutions to their legal puzzles.

Photo credit: Kata Fustos