Originally outlined by Dr. Alfred Barrios and published in The National Enquirer in 1980, the 24 characteristics of a genius have inspired generations of thinkers, doers, and creators. According to Dr. Barrios, these traits aren’t just reserved for the Einsteins or DaVincis of the world, they can be learned and developed by anyone.
“Most people have the mistaken idea that geniuses are born, not made,” Dr. Barrios explained. “But if you look at the lives of the world’s greatest geniuses like Edison, Socrates, DaVinci, Shakespeare, Einstein, you will discover they all had 24 personality characteristics in common.”
For artists, these characteristics are especially powerful. Here’s how each one can apply to your creative journey:
1. Drive
Geniuses have a strong desire to work hard and long. They’re willing to give all they’ve got to a project.
As an artist: Stay committed to your practice. Even when inspiration fades, show up at the canvas, sketchbook or clay table. Create daily, even if it’s messy.
2. Courage
It takes courage to do things others consider impossible. Stop worrying what people will think if you’re different.
As an artist: Be bold with your ideas. Try new materials, apply for that exhibition, or share your vulnerable work online.
3. Devotion to Goals
Geniuses know what they want and go after it. Have something specific to accomplish each day.
As an artist: Whether it’s preparing for a solo show, finishing a portfolio, or building your online presence, commit to it.
4. Knowledge
Geniuses continually accumulate information.
As an artist: Learn new techniques. Watch tutorials, read art history, experiment with new tools, and learn from fellow creatives.
5. Honesty
Geniuses are frank, forthright, and honest. Take responsibility for your mistakes.
As an artist: Be honest with yourself about what you need to improve, and embrace feedback. Growth starts there.
6. Optimism
Geniuses never doubt they will succeed.
As an artist: Stay hopeful even when sales are slow or progress feels stalled. Keep going.
7. Ability to Judge
Understand the facts before judging. Be willing to change your mind.
As an artist: Be open to critiques. Don’t dismiss unfamiliar styles or techniques without trying them.
8. Enthusiasm
Geniuses are excited about their work.
As an artist: Let your passion show. Excitement is contagious – it draws people to your work.
9. Willingness to Take Chances
Geniuses take risks and learn from mistakes.
As an artist: Enter that competition. Pitch that collaboration. Try that ambitious project.
10. Dynamic Energy
Don’t sit and wait for inspiration. Make things happen.
As an artist: If you’re in a creative rut, create something – anything. Energy builds through action.
11. Enterprise
Geniuses are opportunity seekers.
As an artist: See opportunity where others don’t. Start a pop-up show. Collaborate. Pitch to a gallery.
12. Persuasion
Geniuses motivate others.
As an artist: Believe in your work so much that others do too. Talk about it with confidence.
13. Outgoingness
Geniuses are friendly and uplifting.
As an artist: Show up to openings, talk to other artists, comment on their work. Build your creative community.
14. Ability to Communicate
Geniuses communicate ideas well.
As an artist: Whether it’s your artist statement, teaching a workshop, or chatting with a buyer, clarity matters.
15. Patience
Geniuses are patient with others but expect more of themselves.
As an artist: Not every piece will be a masterpiece. Be patient with your process.
16. Perception
Geniuses are highly aware of the world around them.
As an artist: Notice the light. The gestures. The emotions. Then translate them into your work.
17. Perfectionism
Geniuses can’t tolerate mediocrity in themselves.
As an artist: Aim high. Push yourself to refine, rework, and resolve your art.
18. Sense of Humour
Geniuses can laugh at themselves.
As an artist: Don’t take yourself too seriously. Play. Make mistakes. Laugh at the disasters.
19. Versatility
Geniuses learn to do many things.
As an artist: Try sculpture, printmaking, performance. Let your creativity flow through different outlets.
20. Adaptability
Geniuses adapt to change.
As an artist: Lost a studio? Try working en plein air. Pandemic killed your show? Take it online.
21. Curiosity
Geniuses always ask questions.
As an artist: Ask “what if?” What if I mixed this? What if I bent the rules?
22. Individualism
Geniuses follow their own path.
As an artist: Be yourself. Your unique voice is your greatest asset.
23. Idealism
Geniuses believe in something bigger than themselves.
As an artist: Use your art to make a difference, speak truth, or inspire change.
24. Imagination
Geniuses think differently.
As an artist: Set aside time to dream. Sketch with no purpose. Let new ideas find you.
It doesnt matter where you are at and at what level your art is, these traits can be your toolkit. You don’t need to master all 24 at once. Pick one. Practice it. Then try another. As Dr. Barrios said, genius is something you can build – and for artists, that’s a very exciting thought.
Source: Dr. Alfred Barrios, The National Enquirer, 1980. Shared via Delphine Ryan’s blog