One of my most creative periods was during the '80s when I discovered Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way. It changed my life.

I lived in New York City at that time and it was a cornucopia of daily adventures. I'd go sightseeing every day. Visit museums, parks, landmarks. Go exploring in Little Italy, Spanish Harlem, Hells Kitchen, and Brooklyn Heights. It was one of the most exciting times of my life and it was all in my back yard.An Artist's Date is a way of wooing your consciousness. It moves you into the play of creativity, instead of the work of creativity. Julia Cameron calls it drawing on your inner well vs fishing in your inner well. It's a way to refill your consciousness.Think of it as a block of time devoted to stepping aside from your work to engage in simple, fun activities that nourish your creative spirit

Practice

Today, go on an Artist's Date. It doesn't have to be big and complicated. Here are some ideas:• Take a walk on a nature trail• Write a letter longhand• Visit an art supply store and browse• Spend time with your sketchbook• Make a bucket list• Make a healthy meal for yourselfThis artist's date is all about you. It's not something you do to please someone else. It's something you do that nurtures you, makes you happy or stokes your creative fire. Make it a weekly practice. It will change your life! I'd love to know what you notice.

Related Resources

"Artist Dates are assigned play.

The Artist Date is a once-weekly, festive, solo expedition to exploresomething that interests you. The Artist Date need not be overtly“artistic” — think mischief more than mastery. Artist Dates fire up theimagination. They spark whimsy. They encourage play. Since art is about the play of ideas, they feed our creative work by replenishing our inner well of images and inspiration. When choosing an Artist Date, it is good to ask yourself, “what sounds fun?” — and then allow yourself to try it."Watch Julia Cameron's short video on the Artist's Date.

22. Go on an Artist Date

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