This #MakeItHappenMonday, we’re diving into a concept from Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way” that can revolutionize your creative journey: the Artist Date. This week, we’ll explore the importance of refilling our artistic well by experiencing art, not just expressing it.

The Artist Date: A Play Date for Your Inner Artist

In her best-selling book, Cameron introduces the idea of an artist date as a block of time, perhaps two hours weekly, dedicated to nurturing your creative consciousness. Think of it as a play date with your inner artist. No lovers, friends, spouses, children—just you and your creative self. This might sound indulgent or impractical, but it’s a critical practice for sustaining and enriching your creativity.

Why You Need an Artist Date

Spending quality time with your inner artist is essential. Just as troubled relationships benefit from quality time, your relationship with your creativity thrives on it. An artist date helps you:

• Replenish Your Creative Well: Regularly drawing from your creative resources without refilling can leave you feeling depleted. Artist dates help restock your artistic reservoir.
• Stimulate Inspiration: New experiences and environments can spark fresh ideas and perspectives.
• Rediscover Playfulness: Creativity is rooted in the joy of play. An artist date invites fun and spontaneity back into your artistic process.

Ideas for Your Artist Date

Here are some budget-friendly ideas to get you started:

• Visit a Junk Store: Explore the unique items and let your imagination run wild.
• Solo Trip to the Beach: Enjoy the tranquility and let the natural surroundings inspire you.
• Watch an Old Movie Alone: Immerse yourself in a different time and place through cinema.
• Explore an Art Gallery: Appreciate the diverse expressions of other artists.
• Attend a Local Performance: Support fellow performers and gain new insights into your craft.

Guarding Your Artist Date

It’s easy to let life’s demands encroach on your sacred artist date time. Be vigilant:

• Preplan and Defend: Schedule your artist date in advance and treat it as a non-negotiable appointment.
• Stay Solo: Resist the urge to invite others. This time is for you and your creativity alone.
• Listen to Your Inner Artist: Pay attention to what your creative self enjoys and needs. If something feels too serious or obligatory, switch it up and make it fun.

Take Action: Plan Your Artist Date

1: Schedule Your Artist Date
Take out your calendar and block off two hours this week for your artist date. Commit to this time and protect it from all interruptions.

2: Choose Your Adventure
Pick one of the ideas above or come up with your own. Remember, the goal is to nourish your creativity and have fun.

3: Share Your Experience
After your artist date, share your experience with us! Post a photo or a reflection on social media and tag us with #MakeItHappenMonday. Let’s inspire each other to keep our creative wells full.

This #MakeItHappenMonday, let’s embrace the wisdom of Julia Cameron and make time for our inner artist. By dedicating ourselves to regular artist dates, we’ll not only enhance our creative potential but also rediscover the joy and playfulness that fuels our passion for performing. So, go ahead, plan your artist date, and make this week a masterpiece!