Donna's Personal Statement
photo: Melissa Kellogg
When Tricia invited me to co-lead this group, she introduced me to the idea of making a scrapbook/journal of my creative self and creative journey. It all sounded like a lot of fun.
As I was working on my creativity scrapbook, I was surprised to discover that I have a history of joining with my best friends to make things. I’d never quite put it together that this is what I love. As I thought more about it, I realized one of the best things about creating with a friend is that you can encourage each other in the endeavor. You have a built in cheerleader and confidant.
I see this workshop as a natural continuation of my favorite way to create – that is, with a group of other people who also want to express their thoughts and feelings through art. Through coaching and teaching about creativity I inspire and am inspired by my group members’ ideas and work.
Tricia's Personal Statement
photo: Melissa Kellogg
About two years ago, I read Renee Trudeau's book, The Mother's Guide to Self-Renewal. Before I had even finished it, I knew I wanted to facilitate groups to help mothers learn more about self-care. Simultaneously, I had another thought: Artists need to hear this message! In a culture where we are measured by so many external markers, creative people need to know how to unplug and go within. They need to know that their gifts make a contribution that goes beyond commerce, sometimes straight to our very souls. Artists need to be supported and celebrated.
I am someone who has spent an awfully long time working to come to terms with my creative self. After I became a mom and began to be 1) interrupted constantly and 2) short on time for myself, this neglected part of me--literally--would not let me rest. I have become something of an expert about how to balance creativity and motherhood, how to squeeze in a practice or a few steps forward on a song, in 15 or 20 minutes. And Renee's book gave me fortitude in knowing that any time I put into my creativity ultimately makes me a better mom, because it means I am nurturing myself on the deepest level possible, in a way that is bound to spill out onto my kids.
I lead these groups because I want to share my journey. Because I want to find a tribe. And because I know that, if I can help folks embrace who they really are--which is where the path of creativity leads--I am making the world a more vital and vibrant place.
