the artist's way
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 Ever since I began this blog I have been feeling very inspired.
And frustrated.
Everyday I get to witness people unfold astonishing beauty from their creative minds & hearts & hands. And still I create nothing. I want to, I really do. I just don't even know where to begin.
I have recently heard a few similar sentiments out there. I know I'm not alone in this state of being. And yet so often we feel just that. Alone.
A friend & I decided to together work through the book - The Artist's Way, by Julia Cameron. Then we talked some more and decided to invite others - just in case they were out there, feeling alone. So this is your invitation. If you are interested in joining us, just pick up a copy of the book and leave me a comment, letting me know you're in.
This is all going to be very casual. Really just a little accountability to keep us all moving forward in the book and a place to drop in and let others know how the journey is going. A place to share victories, discouragement or just some people to bounce ideas off of. If this speaks to you at all then I hope you'll join us.
For the record I have no artistic skill at all. I write a little bit. Still, I have the heart of the artist. I'm hoping this journey helps me to discover just what to do with it. So whatever your medium may be (or become) - all are welcome. Even if you just desire to walk out in more creativity. And if it's just a few of us, I still think it will be well worth the journey.
We won't be starting for a week or so, to allow people to get a copy of the book. I bought my copy here, used, for around $4 including shipping.
If you have a blog of your own, feel free to spread the word!
Reader Comments (32)
It's funny you posted this. Eric and I were just talking about "creative people" the other day. My "beef" is that I'm not creative and I despise it when creative people say that I am. He thinks every one is creative. I say that's a bunch of malarky. I would love to be creative, but I'm not, and that's that. He thinks I'm just around too many creative people and am intimidated to try things because everyone else is good at them. I asked him to give me proof of my creativity. His answer? Putting stickers in an envelope for the kids.
I guess he gave me a creative answer.
I think that giving yourself the space to daydream and play around is the most important element in being creative. I will never be an artist, but I take joy in creating things, and I think that is the important part.
What a fab idea! Not that I will probably join ;-) , but I will be so interested to see your progress and postings. I don't think I'm that creative, either, but I'm a good copy-cat. If I see it, I can replicate it. But, the older I get, I just tend to be uninspired and buy it. With four kids running around, I find I have less time for those creative bouts. Which, actually, I'm totally fine with. But I do love beauty and appreciate the creativity of others. Good for you for spreading your wings!!
This sounds great---as you know, I already love the book! I'm excited to see how you like the process it takes you through--I will definitely pop in to see how it's going.
One of the greatest things about this book is that she has a very broad definition of creativity--I think everyone can live more creatively, even if they don't choose to define themselves as artists or pursue and art or craft seriously. The book is in essence about play and loving life. Have fun!
I've been wanting to read this for awhile now - I already have a copy. This may be a kick in the butt to start and not let any other books (or kids) get in the way...thanks!
enjoy this book - my aunt gave me a copy in highschool and I still refer to it sometimes...
Also, thank you for your compliments on my photography...it is HARD to get it right, I'm so very picky...
I recommend another book -- Art & Fear. I assume it's along the same lines. But no, you are not alone. I always have weekend projects planned, and need to really push myself to get them done. Not that I don't love doing them, I really do, but I think it's more the dread of failure and disappointment that is keeping me.
Oh Wow...I feel exactly the same way as you do. I love all things creative, and have some flowing in my blood and brain but find it hard to get it out. I guess I have so many interests in all things art, fashion and music that I don't know what to focus all my energy into...its a tough decison cause I love it all!
I've dabbled in all elements but never got pulled in to just one thing and stayed there...so therefore not developing consistency in one form, which can be rather frusterating. I will have to pick up this book...it sounds l ike something I need to read right now.
I'm in!
I feel you.
I was going to read that book a few years ago but I found another book named The Creative Call by Janice Elsheimer. It was more of what I was looking for in a "discovering the artist in me" book. I was a young Christian and didn't know if Jesus was in to art and if my desire to be immersed colors, fashion, and rock guitar was acceptable to God. The Creative Call really encouraged me to follow my heart and have faith that if the desire is there, the ability to learn and maintain the skills to express it exists! Just be patient with yourself and persevere. Enjoy the process!
This post really encouraged me, knowing that I'm not the only one on earth who feels that way. Your whole blog inspires me to get my blog up and going as a creative outlet. At least as a gift to myself if no one ever views it.
I have no idea who you are, and I stumbled across your book club invite so Im hopping on the wagon....as soon as I get the book. :) I am "a creative" but juices just DONT flow sometimes and it is discouraging. I find myself wondering "did i loose it?" So anyways, thanks so much for initiating something that looks soo fun.
Yea! So happy to have you Keri. Hope fully you can get a book by Monday-
nice to meet you!
I'm in! I bought this book a few years but never really got started with it. THis is a good way to keep focused. I'm a writer but often struggle to motivate myself or find inspiration. Thank you for the invite!
Welcome Vanessa! Excited you're in!
I found this very much by accident on the very same day I put the Artist's Way at Work away because I didn't feel I could read it during a job search - hmmmm. I have this one too and will do it.
Wow - Debra. Isn't it crazy when those things happen and our only response can be - okay I guess i"m goon ago with it. Well, we're so glad you found us and that you'll be coming along for the journey!
I just ordered this book... Probably won't be in by Monday, but I'll play catch up. This will be nice to read along and discuss. Enjoying your blog too, as I just found in through TwoEllie.
I heard about your book club through Paula at Two Ellie. I'm going to buy my book tomorrow... can't wait. I'm excited to join in... and I'm glad to have found your blog!
Hi Kotori - Welcome. so glad you found us too!
I am in . Getting the book. had it, sold it yrs back and am excited to read it again! BTW I inked your post last friddya re: book club!
:) xoxo
Thanks, I would like to join in.
I read the book when it first came out. It can be life changing!
I would love to read it again and discuss. I'm in.
can i join if i'm in week 8? i've been wanting to find a group (synchronicity) :)
I'd love to join the adventure!
Welcome - so glad you all are joining. I'll add you to the list!
I would love to join the Artist Way Book Club. I have started it before, but without any accountability fizzled out. The weeks I did last time were great. I'm definitely interested in joining the experience!!
You're all welcome to join - come one, come all-!
I'd love to join... I'm heading to the library to pick it up now!
i'm in! :] left a comment on a later post as well. :]
I came upon this a week late but I would love to join. I've bought the book and will start my morning pages tomorrow. Thanks for the invite.
this book has been on my shelf for years. coincidentally, I just moved it to my bedside table a few weeks ago and have been hoping to crack it open. if it's not too late, I'd love to join in.
I am so excited about this. I hope I'm not too late to join in. I read the intro to this book on my honeymoon in a bookstore in Hawaii - five years ago. It stuck with me but I never bought it. I'm going to buy it today and would love to share the journey with you. I can totally relate to the "feeling alone" in the creative process and I would love to meet some people who are going through similar experiences. Thanks for the opportunity.