Atlas of Creative Tools /

Ask a Question

Ask a Question is a tool that is often used in a group, but Liz Lerman partners with you in this version so you can do it on your own. Ask a Question is a great tool to use when you want to get to know other people and share things about yourself. It is also what we call a generative tool, because it provides different ways- in this case, words and small movements- of investing a particular topic or subject matter you might be working with. This version of Ask a Question is designed to help you practice the tool in the context of a project you are working on, whether personal or for work, that you want to learn more about.

Overview

In this version of Ask a Question, you’ll be working with Liz to investigate a project you are working on. Using this tool involves speaking out loud and also making small gestures, for example with your hands. You can practice this tool while seated or standing. Follow along with Liz and the on-screen prompts in the first half of the video to learn Ask a Question and create a movement sequence from your responses. In the second half of the video, Liz describes various applications of Ask a Question.

Ask a Question is a versatile tool, with lots of room for you to create variations and use it in different situations. Consider the five broad applications Liz shared: Ask a Question to synthesize, catalyze, remember, critique, and energize. How might you use Ask a Question in one of these ways with a project you are currently engaged in? Thinking back to the practice you did with Liz, do you notice any differences between what you learn from the verbal responses to questions compared to the movements? Are your movements telling you anything new or surprising about what is present for you in relation to the questions being asked? Nothing is too small to notice!