On Creativity, Psychiatric Vulnerability, and Madlove

Creativity appears to be a typically human talent, even a feature that defines humanity. But not all human beings are equally creative. Who are the ones with ‘big C’ creativity? What is at the core of creative thinking? Could it be that creative sensibility and psychiatric vulnerability are two sides of the same medal? That fruitful minds are also fragile minds? These questions are explored during a debate with psychiatrist Erik Thys, The vacuum cleaner and Hannah Hull (discussing their MadLove-project) and director Inne Goris (presenting Huis, the week before). The evening starts with a keynote lecture by Erik Thys based on scientific evidence, musings about society and culture, and many examples.

Moderated by Julie Rodeyns

• Erik Thys is a psychiatrist affiliated with the UPC KU Leuven and PSC St.-Alexius in Elsene. He is specialized in psychosis, creativity and stigma, and is the director of the non-profit KAOS, which develops artistic projects with a link to psychiatry.