Surfacing creativity through the arts: a short interview with Terry McGraw

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give the reader a first‐hand view of why and how a major global corporation uses arts‐based learning, from the perspective of its Chairman and CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is an interview with Harold (Terry) McGraw III, Chairman and CEO of The McGraw Hill Companies, discussing the value of arts‐based learning to his corporation.

Findings

Mr McGraw characterizes creativity as a “business imperative,” and puts The McGraw Hill Companies’ successful experiences with arts‐based learning in a broad strategic context of “surfacing creativity” through engagement with the arts.

Originality/value

The McGraw Hill Companies is a global pioneer in the use of arts‐based learning to train leaders, help employees solve problems creatively, and foster personal growth; and is one of America's leading corporate supporters of the arts. Mr McGraw is a leader of unique stature and credibility, and with this interview, he becomes perhaps the most senior business leader in the world to discuss arts‐based learning in business from a perspective of direct experience.

Citation

Seifter, H. (2005), "Surfacing creativity through the arts: a short interview with Terry McGraw", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 26 No. 5, pp. 6-6. https://doi.org/10.1108/02756660510700483