Nurturing your creative community and building connections with fellow creatives is so valuable, it can make your creative life more sustainable, enjoyable and fulfilling in so many ways.
Through my journey, I've discovered the immense value of connecting with like-minded Creative Hearts who share the same passion for creative expression.
In this episode, I'll be sharing personal examples to illustrate just how transformative these connections can be.
I'll also share tips and ideas of strategies you can use to build a nurturing creative community for your own creative life.

About this Episode

Welcome to another episode of The Art of Creative Living, Today we'll be discussing the importance of nurturing your creative community and establishing meaningful connections with fellow creatives.

I'll be sharing examples from my own life and how important building a creative community has been in my own development, satisfaction, and fulfilment.

We'll explore various ways to build your creative community, from attending workshops and courses to joining or creating online groups and participating in local creative gatherings. We'll also dive into the unique features and benefits of my own online space, the Creative Hearts Community. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and join me as we embark on this journey to expand our creative connections and grow as artists and entrepreneurs. Let's get started!

Let's dive in!

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You can see Kelly's paintings and learn more about her courses, workshops and retreats here: https://www.kellyherrick.com/

Episode Transcript

Welcome to The Art of Creative Living, a podcast for heart-centred creatives and entrepreneurs. I'm your host, Nicola Newman, and in this episode, we'll explore the importance of nurturing your creative community and building connections with fellow creatives. I'll be sharing examples from my own life and how important building a creative community has been in my own development, satisfaction, and fulfilment.

Let's get started!

Firstly, I wanted to talk about the value of attending creative workshops & courses:

In my own journey, I've found immense value in attending workshops and even business conferences. These gatherings have provided me with opportunities to learn new skills, share my work, and form meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Over the years I’ve participated in many different forms of workshops and creative courses. Some have been through what was previously known as ACE - Adult Community Education - where I did a course in photography and another one in picture framing back during my late teens.

I also went to TAFE for four years where I completed a Diploma of Visual Arts and a Diploma of Frontline Mangement for Artworkers, a Cert 3 in Training & Assessment before I went to Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art where I completed my bachelor of Fine Arts.

For me, art school and University opened up a new world for me and led to meeting a group of amazing artists many of whom also became my close friends and collaborators.

Join or create a creative community online:

But you don’t have to go to university or art school to nurture connections with other creatives. I've also experienced the power of online platforms such as social media, forums, or membership websites in connecting with fellow creatives from around the world.

I've been part of several online groups relevant to my creative interests, and these connections have proven invaluable in supporting and inspiring my work. I even started my own online space, the Creative Hearts Community, which has allowed me to foster connections and support among fellow artists and entrepreneurs.

I absolutely love the gentle, nurturing and inspiring space we have co-created there. The Creative Hearts Community has often been described as a quiet oasis for creatives seeking connection, inspiration, and support. In a world that can be overwhelming and noisy, our community offers a calming refuge where members can share their creative journey, exchange ideas, and nurture their artistic passions.

What I love about The Creative Hearts Community is a vibrant and supportive online space designed specifically for artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and other creatives. Our members come from many different walks of life and various creative disciplines, which adds to the richness and diversity of the group. In this community, we offer a range of resources and opportunities for connection, including:

Exclusive content: Members have access to articles, videos, and other resources created specifically for the community. These materials cover a wide range of topics, from creative inspiration and skill-building to self-care and personal development.
Online workshops and events: We host regular online workshops and events led by myself and other industry experts, providing members with opportunities to learn and grow in their creative practices.
Interactive discussion forums: Our community features discussion forums where members can ask questions, share their work, and engage in conversations on various creative topics. This allows for valuable feedback, encouragement, and the sharing of ideas.
Networking and collaboration opportunities: The Creative Hearts Community is a fantastic place to connect with like-minded individuals for potential authentic collaborations, partnerships, or simply to expand your creative network.
Support and accountability: As a member, you'll find a caring and supportive environment where you can share your challenges, celebrate your successes, and receive encouragement from fellow creatives who understand your journey.

One of the members' favourite features of the Creative Hearts Community is our virtual creative retreats. These retreats provide an opportunity for community members to dedicate an entire day to a creative project of their choice while enjoying the support and companionship of other like-minded individuals.

During our virtual creative retreats, members gather online and set personal goals for their projects, whether it's making progress on a novel, completing a series of paintings, or diving into one of the many creative workshops we have in the recordings archive. Throughout the day, we have check-in points where members share their progress, discuss any challenges they're facing, and offer encouragement to one another. This structure not only fosters accountability but also creates a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among participants.

In addition to the focused creative time, the retreats also feature breaks for relaxation and self-care. These breaks help to maintain a sense of balance and prevent burnout during the creative process.

Many members have found that participating in our virtual creative retreats has significantly boosted their productivity and motivation. By setting aside dedicated time for their creative work and surrounding themselves with a supportive community, they're able to make meaningful progress on their projects and feel a greater sense of accomplishment.

Our virtual creative retreats are just one example of the unique and valuable experiences the Creative Hearts Community offers. By joining our community, you can take part in these retreats and other engaging events designed to help you grow and flourish as a creative.

Within the community, members find a welcoming and safe space to express themselves and be heard. They can participate in meaningful conversations and collaborate with other like-minded individuals who share their creative aspirations. This sense of belonging and understanding fosters personal growth and creative development, leading to increased satisfaction and fulfillment in their work and lives.

The tranquil atmosphere of the Creative Hearts Community, combined with regular journaling prompts and workshops, also encourages members to slow down and focus on their creative process, helping them tap into their inner wisdom and authentic voice. Through this nurturing environment, creatives can explore their unique talents, hone their skills, and gain valuable insights that fuel their artistic pursuits.

In essence, the Creative Hearts Community serves as a quiet oasis where creatives can recharge, reconnect with their passions, and cultivate meaningful connections with fellow artists and entrepreneurs.

By joining our community, you can experience the benefits of this inspiring creative sanctuary and enjoy the support and inspiration it provides on your own creative journey.

What I love most about the Creative Hearts Community is the genuine sense of camaraderie and mutual support among its members. It's a space where there is oodles of support and inspiration, regardless of your creative background or experience level.

By joining the Creative Hearts Community, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources, knowledge, and connections to help you navigate your creative journey with confidence and joy. Moreover, you'll be part of a global network of like-minded individuals who are just as passionate about creative expression and self care as you are. Together, we can inspire and uplift one another as we pursue our creative dreams.

If it calls to you, you are welcome to join the community and see how it supports your creative life. It’s a monthly membership, so you can join us today and cancel anytime.

Participate in local creative groups:

Over the years I’ve moved around a lot, and I've had the privilege of participating in various art collectives, writing groups, and other creative organizations. These groups have not only provided a nurturing environment for me to connect, learn, and grow with other creatives, but they have also played a significant role in helping me feel more grounded and connected to my local community.

By actively engaging with the local creative scene, I've discovered a wealth of talent and inspiration right on my doorstep. Meeting fellow creatives in person and working together on projects has allowed me to forge strong relationships, leading to collaborations and friendships that have enriched my life and my work.

Being part of these local creative groups has deepened my sense of belonging and pride in my community.

It has opened my eyes to the importance of supporting local artists and creative endeavours, as well as the impact we can have when we come together to celebrate our shared passion for art and creativity.

These local creative organisations have given me the opportunity to contribute to my community by sharing my own skills and expertise. I've been able to offer workshops, mentorship, and support to other creatives, which has been incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

Overall, my involvement in local creative groups has had a profound impact on my personal and professional growth. It has not only allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals but has also strengthened my ties to my community, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose that continues to inspire me in my creative journey.

Collaborate on projects:

Throughout my career, I've had the pleasure of collaborating with fellow creatives on various projects. These experiences have not only allowed me to create something unique and impactful but have also at times forged lasting friendships and professional relationships.

One of the highlights of my collaborations was filming a documentary series featuring Queensland-based contemporary artists. Interviewing and filming these passionate creatives, including painters, filmmakers, sculptors, photographers, and other artists, was an incredible opportunity to grow and learn.

Another valuable collaborative experience was participating in online business masterminds.

These groups brought together creatives and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, providing a supportive space for us to exchange ideas, share resources, and help each other navigate the challenges of building and maintaining a creative business.

In one particularly memorable collaboration, I had the opportunity to work with the creative design team for The Star on the Gold Coast, where I was commissioned in the mid-five figures to paint a large-scale 3 x 10-meter painting commission for their foyer. This project pushed me to expand my creative boundaries and develop new skills, while also giving me the chance to connect with other creatives involved in the design and execution of this ambitious project.

These diverse collaborative experiences have enriched my life and my work in countless ways. By working together with other creatives, we have been able to push each other to new heights, expand our networks, and create truly remarkable projects. I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities and the lasting connections they have fostered.

As you consider your own creative journey, take a moment to reflect on how you might like to foster collaborative partnerships. There are countless ways to collaborate with fellow creatives, so think about what excites and inspires you.

Perhaps you've always dreamed of starting a podcast where you can interview some of your favourite creatives, diving deep into their processes and sharing their stories with the world. Or maybe, like my past coaching client Kelly Herrick, you're intrigued by the idea of co-authoring a book, merging your unique perspectives and talents to create something truly special.

Kelly asked if anyone in her circle wanted to write about women’s wisdom, and she says, “In the end there were 33 of us from all around the world. We shared BIG. We wrote about private, emotional, important things. We did it together. We held space for one another and the book has gone on to raise money for two women's charities and help many readers through their own life lessons. This is what happens when women step into their creative power.”

'No Ordinary Words' is name of that book. Kelly says her literary sisters in creating that book have had some of the biggest impact on her.

You might even consider developing a product or service in conjunction with another creative you've always admired. The possibilities are endless, and these collaborations can not only enrich your work but also open up new opportunities for growth, learning, and connection.

As you explore potential partnerships, remember that collaboration is about bringing together unique talents and strengths to create something that neither party could have achieved alone and benefits each participant. By working together, you can enhance your own creative practice and contribute to the success and enrichment of your creative community.

Offer support and encouragement:

In my own creative community, I've found that mutual support and encouragement are crucial. I make a conscious effort to uplift and celebrate the achievements of my fellow creatives, when asked, I also offer constructive feedback, and lend a listening ear when needed. This aspect of building connections with other creatives is truly one of my favourite parts of being part of such a vibrant and diverse network.

Witnessing the growth and progress of others in my creative circle fills me with immense joy and pride.

By fostering a positive and supportive environment, we create a strong network of creatives who can lean on each other during challenging times and celebrate victories together. It's this mutual appreciation and understanding that has led to some of the most profound and fulfilling connections in my life.

As creatives, we know that the journey can be filled with ups and downs, and it's essential to have a solid support system to navigate those turbulent waters. The collective wisdom, experience, and camaraderie found in a flourishing creative community can make all the difference in keeping us motivated and inspired.

By actively engaging in the lives and work of my fellow creatives, I've discovered new perspectives, ideas, and techniques that have enriched my own creative practice and personal life. Furthermore, the sense of belonging and connection that comes from being part of such a community has given me the confidence and encouragement to push beyond my comfort zone and explore new horizons.

As you continue to build and nurture your creative community, it's important to consider offering mutual support and encouragement to your fellow creatives. This not only strengthens the bonds within the community but also fosters an environment where everyone can thrive and grow.

Here are a few ways you can actively offer support and encouragement to your creative peers:

Engage with their work: Take the time to genuinely engage with your fellow creatives' work, whether that means attending their exhibitions, reading their blog posts, or sharing their content on social media. Your interest and support will be deeply appreciated and can lead to meaningful connections.
Offer constructive feedback: When appropriate, (which usually means only when directly asked) offer constructive feedback on their work, always being mindful of their feelings and intentions. Be honest, but also be kind and empathetic in your approach. Remember, your goal is to encourage, support and help them grow, not to take the wind out of their sails.
Share opportunities: If you come across an opportunity that you think might be a good fit for someone in your creative community, share it with them. It could be a call for submissions, a grant application, or an artist residency. Sharing opportunities not only shows your support but can also open doors for your fellow creatives.
Celebrate their successes: Whenever a creative peer achieves a milestone, be it big or small, take the time to celebrate and congratulate them. A simple message of appreciation or a public shout-out on social media can mean a lot and help to reinforce the supportive nature of your creative community.
Be a sounding board: Sometimes, creatives just need someone to listen to their ideas, frustrations, or challenges. Offer to be a sounding board for your peers, providing a safe space for them to express themselves and, when appropriate, offer your perspective or advice.
Collaborate: Look for opportunities to collaborate with your fellow creatives on projects, events, or workshops. Collaboration can lead to incredible growth, learning, and connection for everyone involved.

By actively offering support and encouragement to your fellow creatives, you contribute to the overall health and well-being of your creative community. In return, you'll likely find that the support you give is reciprocated, helping you to grow and flourish as an artist or entrepreneur. The more we lift each other up, the stronger and more vibrant our creative communities become, and the more we all benefit from the collective wisdom, experience, and connections that arise from these supportive relationships.

Share resources and knowledge:

As my creative journey has progressed, I've discovered the immense value and joy in sharing my knowledge and resources with others in my community. By imparting my experiences, insights, and expertise, I not only contribute to the growth and success of my fellow creatives, but also strengthen the connections within my creative network.

Some of the ways I've shared my knowledge and resources include:

Hosting workshops: Through organizing and leading workshops, I've been able to teach specific skills or techniques, share my creative process, and provide valuable guidance to other creatives. These workshops have also allowed me to connect with fellow artists and entrepreneurs on a more personal level, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
Writing blog posts: By sharing my thoughts, experiences, and insights on my blog, I've been able to reach a wider audience and spark discussions around various creative topics. This has not only helped to establish my credibility within my field but has also allowed me to engage with and learn from my readers.
Creating educational content: Developing videos, courses, or tutorials has enabled me to share my knowledge in a more structured and accessible way. This type of content can be incredibly beneficial for those looking to deepen their understanding of a specific creative field or technique.
Mentoring and coaching: Providing one-on-one support to other creatives, whether in the form of mentoring or coaching, has been a deeply rewarding experience. By offering personalized guidance, feedback, and encouragement, I've been able to help others overcome challenges and reach their creative goals.
Collaborating on projects: When working on collaborative projects, I've found that sharing my skills, knowledge, and resources with my creative partners has led to a more enriching and fulfilling experience for everyone involved. It's also opened up new opportunities for learning and growth that might not have been possible otherwise.
Participating in panel discussions and speaking engagements: By sharing my expertise through panel discussions or speaking engagements, I've been able to contribute to the broader creative conversation and inspire others to pursue their own creative passions.

Sharing resources and knowledge with your creative community not only enriches the lives of those you support but also deepens your own understanding and appreciation of your creative field. As you continue to grow and evolve as an artist or entrepreneur, remember that your unique experiences and insights can be a valuable contribution to the collective growth and success of your creative network.

Stay in touch and nurture relationships:

Building and maintaining a strong creative community takes time and effort.

I've made it a priority to stay in touch with fellow creatives I've met along the way, check in on their progress, and continue to engage with their work. Nurturing relationships is an ongoing process that requires genuine care and commitment, but it is so rewarding and worthwhile, in my experience.

Cultivating a supportive and flourishing creative community has been essential in my creative journey.

Actively engaging with fellow creatives, offering support, and collaborating on projects has created a network of like-minded individuals who share my passion and love for creative expression. These connections have provided inspiration, encouragement, and valuable resources, helping me to grow both personally and professionally.

I hope these ideas might inspire your own creative journey and spark some ideas on how you can nurture and grow your own creative community. And of course, I hope to see you in my Creative Hearts Community! We would have so much fun connecting in there!

Thank you for joining me for another episode of The Art of Creative Living. I hope these tips and personal experiences inspire you to nurture your own creative community and enjoy the many benefits it brings.

Until next time, be kind to yourself and nurture your creativity!

Join us in Flourish: The Art of Creative Living!

If you are feeling inspired to deepen your own relationship to creative living, including nurturing your creative expression and being kind to yourself, you can receive direct support, guidance and tools from me inside Flourish: The Art of Creative Living.

It's a program that weaves together supportive practices for Creative Hearts from all walks of life - whether you're an aspiring creative, a creative professional, or a creative entrepreneur - into one complete tapestry.

Along the way, you'll meet an incredible, encouraging community of fellow Creative Hearts, who you can both receive support from and offer support to in return while you explore painting, journaling, photography, writing, mindfulness, and other creative practices to help your craft a life that is deeply fulfilling, meaningful, and true to you.

Registration for Flourish: The art of creative living is now open.

You can find out more about it at www.nicolanewman.com/flourish. You're also invited to receive my free seven-day Art of Creative Living introductory course, which is a wonderful overview of my approach and gives you tools and practices you can implement right away, giving you a taste of what you'll experience inside the full program. You can find that free mini-course here https://www.nicolanewman.com/flourishwithpainting

I hope you enjoy this episode!

With my warmest wishes,

Nicola x

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About the Host

Nicola Newman is a creative business coach, award-winning artist and creative living mentor. As host of The Art of Creative Living Podcast and founder of the Creative Hearts Community, Nicola’s passion is inspiring and supporting Creative Hearts to build loving relationships with themselves, express their creativity, trust their inner wisdom and carve out a life that’s personally meaningful and fulfilling to them.

She offers multiple resources for educating, inspiring, and supporting Creative Hearts. You are invited to take her free Creative Archetype Quiz, join her free Art of Creative Living mini-course, sign up for her Inspiration Letters and nurture your creativity through her online courses, coaching programs and retreats.

Nicola’s creative business coaching is tailored to support sensitive, heart-led creatives to develop, grow, and expand their creative offerings. Her approach is to embrace gentleness, playfulness and self-care to navigate self-doubt and instead cultivate deep self-trust so you can truly enjoy the creative process, bring together your body of work, make money doing what you love and leave a creative legacy you’re proud of.

www.nicolanewman.com

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