For creatives in general, it’s so important to make art often, and it’s easiest to do so alone. It’s not uncommon for artists of all types to spend significant time alone concentrating on their work. However, it’s also important to create art with others. It can help us foster social connections and improve our art. The benefits of making communal art are numerous, and creating time for it allows us to engage with others in a creative way.
Why should I make art with others?
It increases creative flow
In art making, creative flow is the state in which we are fully engrossed and concentrated on the task at hand. It is a state in which we are fully focused on our art. Creative flow often comes a short period of time after we start the piece we’re working on. When we work in a communal art space, creative flow is easier to achieve, since those around us are also engaged in this process. Communal art space is often set up for art processes, including supplies, silence or music, and a space in which others are also creating. This allows us to be more focused and create better art.
It helps us build community
Working in communal art spaces also allows us to build relationships with like minded people who also have an interest in art making. Creating in a shared space allows us to interact socially, but also to engage in working on the same art piece together. Through this experience, we increase our social interactions, but also engage in a sensory process that connects us with others.
For those who feel disconnected from others, especially as a result of the pandemic, building community might be an important priority, and making art in groups can certainly foster connection and communication.
It helps us generate new ideas
When we create art with others, or even just in the same space as others, it’s inherent that we feel inspired by the creative process, materials, and energy around us as we work. By drawing on inspiration from those around us, we generate new ideas that help us connect to and improve our art, while also learning new techniques, using new materials, or editing existing pieces with new ideas.
It makes helps us make better art
In group art spaces, art critiques generally occur. An art critique helps us think about additions we can make to our art, see art from a new lens other than our own, and gives us ideas that we may not have considered. Working with other creatives inspires us to improve our skills, and engage in positive interactions that help us see art through other perspectives. The communal art space is a great place to improve the art we’re already making.
Where can I make art with others?
Making art with others can be as simple as meeting with a group of friends and making art together. It can also look like attending a class or workshop. In addition, open art studios are another great way to work on art in a group setting. Open art studios do not require that you interact with others in the studio, although you can if you’d like. Being in a creative space can help foster better art and expression, even if you don’t interact socially.
The other option for making art in groups through virtual platforms, such as Zoom. When the pandemic hit, many artists transitioned to virtual art spaces to meet, connect, and create together. Although many artists are willing to meet in person these days, virtual platforms still exist for art spaces. Virtual platforms might be worth a shot if you’re hesitant about going to an unfamiliar in-person space.
Learn more about the author, Sam Nolan, here.
Photo by “My Life Through A Lens” on Unsplash