Creative Spirit Blog June 15,2025 Community Can Empower

Tide Pool Paper and Palm Collage

“As artists we belong to an ancient and holy tribe”.      Julia Cameron

It enriches us to be with people who think in a creative way, working together, sharing ideas, getting and giving feedback. Artists empower one another. A community of artists can inspire and motivate us to create. 

There are all kinds of communities. There are large and small art organizations, workshops, retreats, classes in person or online, and groups of artists that work together in an open studio situation. 

As artists we need to support each other because no one understands an artist’s need to create more than other artists. If we can connect with other artists who are like minded, we can troubleshoot our problems with them.

This support and connection can be so important to our growth and well-being.  These groups can foster our personal growth and our creative expression no matter what our artistic form. It could be visual arts, performing arts, music, dance, theater, or literature.  All the arts provide avenues for individuals to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, by fostering self-discovery and a sense of personal agency.

Julia Cameron talks about having a “sacred circle”. This is a circle of peers built on respect and trust. Seeing each member of the group as an individual with a unique ability.  They accept each other for their individuality, no matter what their medium or level of ability. It is a group of creatives who do not uproot one another’s ideas before they have had time to come to fruition.

They share what they are working on, explain what they are doing and where they hope to go, and receive constructive feedback which can be invaluable for individual growth and improvement.  When we engage with diverse perspectives, it enhance our skills and creativity. Group members share resources, such as tools, materials, techniques, and opportunities to further our creative development. 

A community of artists provides a sense of belonging and shared identity, which is important for growth and motivation.  It fosters a supportive environment where we artists feel valued and understood.

However, we need to choose our group carefully. We don’t want to be part of a group that makes us feel inadequate, insecure, or less than what we are.  Creatives flourish when we have a sense of safety and self-acceptance.  

There are many artists who are loners.  They need quiet and solitude.  I am guilty of this.  I do like to work alone.  But I need that "scared circle" to share my ideas with and learn new things.  The "circle" motivates me. It’s a matter of balance!

I want to share with you part of "An Artist’s Prayer" written by Julia Cameron.

“Help us to love one another,

To mature each other’s unfolding,

To encourage each other’s growth,

And to understand each other’s fears.

Help us to know that we are not alone,

That we are loved and capable.”

I dedicate this blog post to my class. You have become my "scared circle”. Many come and go with the season, but you each bring something special to this group when we are together. You have been my motivation for so much of my work over the years. Thank you. Carolyn