Can we just talk for a moment how incredibly hard it is to be creative while navigating the news cycle?
Unprecedented times
I’m sure you’ve heard someone at some point exclaim that we’re living through unprecedented times. Often accompanied by hands waving and voice raised. OK, maybe that person was me. I’ve been known to get rather agitated by the news cycle.
But how do I know we’re living through unprecedented times? For all I know, I’m simply living through times. Only history will be able to show me if they’re unprecedented or not. And by that time I will be long dead.
Whatever this is that we’re collectively experiencing, it’s confusing. Because the life I’m currently experiencing is strangely normal while also rapidly shifting. Life is both incredibly beautiful and heartbreaking.
Both things are true
Being able to live within this contradiction takes energy and practice. It’s easy for me to get swept away in the outrage. But when I’m honest with myself I know that this isn’t helpful; for me, or anyone else.
So I sit in my anger and my sadness and my joy.
I let these emotions wash over, through me and even change me. Then I put my often overwhelming emotions into my photography.
Honestly, if I didn’t have my creative photography practice, I think I’d go crazy. Taking photos, continuing to find the beauty in the world and expressing myself, is what keeps me moving forward.
Sharing is caring
So while the current news cycle makes being creative feel like slogging through molasses – I will continue to move forward. Not only for myself but for anyone else who sees my work.
Social media is an imperfect vessel for sharing, but it’s what’s currently available. On my Instagram posts I receive comments such as: “Thank you for the reminder to dream and for sharing it in such a vivid and creative way!”, or “Love the photo and quote!! You’re so inspiring 
” or “This one really touched me. I’m so glad you make art. 
“.
Whenever I get discouraged (because I do), I think back on these and other comments. I know that my small contribution to a more beautiful world is appreciated. Not only be me, because I have a place to put my emotions. But also by anyone who takes a moment to view and appreciate my work.
Sharing happy and positive images seems like an insignificant act in the face of everything [waves hand] that’s going on. But I have faith that I’m on the right path.
My ripples have an impact. Even if I can’t always see it.
What a wonderful world
Whatever we’re living through, I need a framework to keep my creative practice moving forward. That molasses analogy is real! Which is why I use large scale projects like my calendar to keep me moving. Nothing like a deadline to help motivation!
I also have an amazing group of workshop friends who keep me energized. Every two weeks we meet-up to share creative wins and recent images. Each session is filled laughter, friendship and a certain camaraderie that only a shared passion fuels.
No matter how terrible life might seem, the world is still filled with beautiful moments like these. And I’m grateful.
If you’re looking for creative support please reach out to me and we can discuss the best way to proceed. If you’re feeling stuck, The Purpose Clarity Program will help you define a path forward. My photography Workshops will help you improve your photography skills. Individual Coaching is a great choice if you have a specific project that needs support.
“I see trees of green, red roses too
I see them bloom for me and for you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world”
—Louis Armstrong
8 Responses
Trying to funnel feelings of these trying times into my photography is mixed bag. Sometimes I want to funnel my discontent into a dark image with a cryptic caption, and other times I want to just take a “normal” photo to forget all the turmoil and uncertainty. You know “normal” in the before times… Regardless, creating is my vessel to cope… or try to cope…
Jason – In my humble opinion there is no right way to cope. These are times that try men’s souls. Like you, sometimes I go dark (although not as dark as you) and sometimes I lean into the positivity. It’s hard to know what is the right path. Just more confusion I guess. Whatever path we choose Im grateful for my toys and my toy friends. <3
You are as expressive in words as you are in your photography. It’s so good to find other people feel the same way I do. I’m missing the workshops right now, but I’ll be back. Had to sign on for something else for this season. Having to make choices is hard but it is part of life. I miss the Creativity Clubhouse but I never hear about them until after they’ve past. I must be missing something somewhere. Thank you for what you do.
MAry I appreciate that you are a part of this community. I will look into my list and make sure you get notification for the next Clubhouse. I look forward to working with you again when your schedule frees up. Have fun during choir season!! 😀
Even though I generally avoid the news cycle, other things in life can easily steal my creative energy. My life is so packed with “worthy” commitments that my toys end up sitting sadly staring at me from my desk and nearby shelf, untouched for months… months that turn into years. So I appreciate hearing how you keep yourself going — AND the behind-the-scenes is always an inspiration. Taking a break during the day and taking a toy outside can result in something beautiful and resonant that is captured to be enjoyed forever. Thank you, Shelly!
Teddi it’s so good to hear from you! I’m glad to know that you’re keeping busy with what is I’m sure all manner of amazing projects. But remember, you’re toys need you!! Take care my friend! 😀
Sometime just recently, I came across the idea that creativity is an act of rebellion in times of unprecedented turbulence in society. And also a salve for people living through this horseshit.
I took a lot of solace in that idea, because making photographs is something I *can* do and leaving behind artifacts of joy and beauty during these times is important work.
Bill – I’ve also heard similar. I think of my joy / photography practice as my shield against all the chaos. Sometimes it doesn’t feel like it’s enough. But then I remember the word I chose for the year – Trust. I need to trust the process. I hope you can find time to keep creating. Your images always delight me!