ARTS IN CULTURAL DIALOGUE

Abstract. The article analyzes the unique cultural and psychological phenomenon of the 1960s–70s — the heyday of hard rock, characterized by a richness of styles and a high level of performance mastery. A special focus is made on Richard Hugh Blackmore, who stands out among the numerous musicians of that time due to his distinctive personality and creative achievements. The implementation of a multidisciplinary approach in the biographical method of studying personality and creativity can be understood through the lens of Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory, particularly his concept of life stages development and the conflict of vitality. Erikson identifies eight stages, each involving a contradiction between the internal need for self-realization and external constraints, thus looking into the grounds of forming and realizing creative potential. An important prerequisite for the development of uniqueness and creativity is innate individuality embedded at the genetic level, called childhood vitality — the inner force that determines personality development throughout life. In the case of Blackmore and other talented musicians of this era, the manifestation of a high level of mastery and innovation is associated with an internal readiness to overcome stages of conflict and realize their unique natural ability. Research, analysis, and understanding of the psychological mechanisms of development and inner vitality are important for explaining differences in creative potential and achievements.
Keywords: multidisciplinary paradigm, innovations in music, creativity, epigenetic developmental map, childhood vitality, musical thinking, personal uniqueness, biographical method, Richard Blackmore

Ilyin V. A.: Doctor of Psychology, Russian State Social University (RSSU), Moscow, Russian Federation, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7784-5616, e-mail: valeryal0405@gmail.com

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