Creativity as our natural state of being

Hi, and welcome to my new site and blog!

Last year, I underwent a crucial shift in my creative transformation. Workwise, I had already been working on the "Transitions"-series of paintings for over two years. I had also spent several years meditating with various guides. For example, I used Sam Harris’s Waking Up app for years, and I highly recommend it for both beginners and experienced meditation practitioners, especially for those with little time (like parents of small human beings, radiant with life and love) or those unable to attend circles or group practices.

But the funny thing is, I had never consciously connected my spiritual practice with my creative work, not in a clear and intentional way, at least. One book and one practice changed all of that.

Through a random Google recommendation, I discovered Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way, and I can say without exaggeration that it changed my life in many ways. As I read her words, tears rolled down my cheeks because she described feelings I had been unable to put into words myself. Following her twelve-week program and doing the work, I reached a whole new understanding of my creative needs and personality. What was a small revelation at first became something profound, my artistic aspirations were, in essence, a spiritual practice.

For those unfamiliar with Julia Cameron’s work, here’s a brief summary:

The Artist’s Way is a 12-week program designed to help individuals unlock their creativity. Cameron introduces two key tools: Morning Pages, daily stream-of-consciousness writing to clear the mind—and the Artist Date, a weekly solo excursion to nurture inspiration. She emphasizes that creativity is a natural part of being human, often blocked by fear, self-doubt, or past conditioning. She encourages readers to overcome these blocks by identifying negative beliefs and replacing them with affirmations.

The book integrates spirituality, suggesting that creativity flows from a higher source and that trusting this process leads to artistic breakthroughs. Cameron highlights the importance of play, curiosity, and taking small steps toward creative goals. Resistance, perfectionism, and external criticism are natural challenges that must be acknowledged but not obeyed. She stresses consistency, urging readers to make creativity a daily practice rather than waiting for inspiration. The Artist’s Way serves as both a guide and a catalyst for anyone looking to reconnect with their creative self.

For me, the Morning Pages have been crucial in maintaining creative flow and releasing stagnant thoughts. But the most transformative part of my journey has been the connection between art and spirituality. What I once treated as separate practices are now woven together like strands of a rope, forming a singular and unbreakable whole.

You don’t have to be a spiritual practitioner to enjoy my art. It’s not about overthinking, it’s about over-feeling. If something resonates with you, just enjoy it. Don’t try to intellectualize or rationalize what you’re feeling.

Your feelings are true.

Big love.

/Jacob