ART RISES FROM THE SOUL

As I work toward the launch of The Hero's Write in January, I'm testing out some ideas I have with a group on Facebook. (You can join if you'd like! Here's the LINK.) One of the things I might like to do in the Write is Artist Dates. A friend gave me The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron, more than a decade ago. I didn't get into back then, but lately I've been craving the soul time. I think the more intense life gets, the more we all need time to reconnect--with ourselves and the world around us.

What Is an Artist Date?

An Artist Date is a commitment to spend time alone, engaging in activities that spark your imagination and bring you joy. It's about filling your creative well by exploring new experiences, indulging in play, and reconnecting with your inner artist. These dates are not about productivity or achieving specific goals; instead, they're about allowing yourself the freedom to explore and be inspired.

An artist date is a block of time, perhaps two hours weekly, especially set aside and committed to nurturing your creative consciousness, you inner artist. In its most primary form, the artist date is an excursion, a play date that you preplan and defend against interlopers. You do not take anyone on this artist date but you and your inner artist, a.k.a. your creative child.  Julia Cameron, The Artist’s Way

Core Guidelines for Artist Dates

• Solo Adventure: Generally, Artist Dates are solo, but I imagine some done in company. Maybe a social hike to a pretty waterfall, where we'd all find a spot to be alone. I don't think there's a right or wrong way to fill your soul and find inspiration.

• Weekly Commitment: The goal is to set aside a specific time each week for your Artist Date. Consistency helps build a nurturing habit for your creativity, and trust in yourself and your ability to fulfill promises.

• Playful and Fun: Choose activities that are enjoyable and light-hearted. The goal is to have fun and indulge your sense of wonder.

• Non-Productive: Avoid turning the date into a task or project. It's not about creating something tangible but about experiencing and absorbing inspiration.

• Novelty: Engage in experiences that are new to you. Exploring unfamiliar activities or environments can stimulate fresh ideas and perspectives.

Examples of Artist Dates

• Visit a local art museum or gallery you've never been to.

• Take a walk in a neighborhood or park you're unfamiliar with.

• Attend a live performance, such as a play or concert, solo.

• Explore a new hobby or craft store and allow yourself to be curious.

• Spend time in a café, people-watching and jotting down observations.

• Try your hand at a new creative activity, like pottery or painting, without the pressure to excel.

I'm excited to seek inspiration from the world around me! Come join my group (May 2025) if you'd like to join in the fun. But even if you don't, I hope you'll try out Artist Dates for yourself. And maybe, you'll come back and tell me what you did and how you liked it. I'd love any and all ideas!

Namaste.