There is a better way . . .
The magic lies within us. Sadly, society encourages us not to use it.
What is this powerful tool?
I want help you reconnect with your innate creativity. I want us all to discover the true power of collaborative creativity.
Creative power, especially collaborative creative power, is more powerful than almost anything else! It’s true, especially if you want to build social structure or challenge societal norms.
Perhaps a tiny voice inside of you is saying things like:
“I’m not creative.”
“There’s no power in creativity.”
“Creativity is a luxury and makes no difference in the world”
The gremlins in your head or your inner critic.
These are messages we’ve been taught over the years, in many different ways. They are reinforced by society and people in power who want complete control.
According to a study by Dr. George Land, 98% of children are creative geniuses.
By adulthood, that percentage dwindles down to 2%.
Land, George.”George Land the failure of succes” TedXTucson, Feb. 16 2011. https://youtu.be/ZfKMq-rYtnc
Why does this happen? When we stop using our creative muscle, we become weaker. (This happens with any muscle.
When we strengthen our creative muscles, we harness this power that could change the world. Once we give ourselves permission to embrace this innate ability, and to explore our creative spirit with others—anything can happen.
My goal is to help both individuals and groups:
- rediscover and strengthen our innate creative muscles,
- channel that creativity toward community building, social justice, and strengthening communication
- encourage a collaborative and playful approach to problem solving
- nurture the understanding that there are healthier ways to live and work that can benefit society, not just the bank accounts of the wealthy
How does this work?
I use the creative techniques I have learned over a lifetime of creative research and work as a theatre artist, author and educator. Through collaboration with you, I develop workshops and 1:1 programs that help you discover what you and your communities need.
My creative toolbox contains:
Techniques from Improvisation and Theatre
No, I will not make you perform or put on a show. (Unless that is something you want to do.) However, through my work as a theatre director, educator, manager, etc. I learned the amazing abilities of a passionate creative group of people to come together and get the job done. Theatre and improv teach you things like: collaboration, public speaking, adaptability, communication, flexibility, organization, empathy and many, many other skills.
Gateless Writing
Gateless writing is a methodology designed by Suzanne Kingsbury, that combines creative brain science with Zen philosophy to help free you from your inner critic and the societal blocks that keep you from creating. As one of fewer than 100 certified Gateless instructors, I adapt these methods to both writing and other forms of creativity to help people connect with their own creative passions.
Focusing on Process
In my experience, innovative and creative processes that allow for flexibility, collaboration, and communication will result in more meaningful products. Sure, it’s great to have a goal in mind, and we will always work toward a goal–but what if the goal isn’t the right one and you are stuck in producing something that does more harm than good? That’s where learning how to embrace your innate creativity allows for new ideas, possibilities, and ultimately better results. I am not here to tell you what your product should be. I am here to facilitate your own discoveries and processes toward a successful conclusion.