What are YOU hiding in your SHADOW?
Welcome!
Unsure where to channel your creativity?
Do you believe in a myth that you have no creativity?
Want to add more spark to your life?
Read on
Shadow Work and Creativity
When I was kid, long before the days of technology, I spent summer evenings and fall days stretching my arms wide to make silly shapes with my shadow. Maybe I was just bored.
But shadows ARE mysterious, aren’t they?
Now, I think of shadows in terms of art and of self. The opposite of boring.
When you add shadows to a piece of artwork, it creates more definition and texture. Not boring. Using a filter to darken the shadows in a photograph can add depth, which complements other features in the picture.
Similarly, when people engage in personal shadow work, light can better highlight their life. Again, not boring.
So, what is shadow work?
Shadow work refers to exploring the parts of oneself that are suppressed and/or shadowed by inauthenticity. Engaging in shadow work involves facing these hidden elements, integrating them into your conscious awareness, and developing personal growth. Examples of shadow work include reflecting on uncomfortable patterns like denial, manipulation, projection, superiority, blame, and helplessness.
How is this related to creativity, you ask?
Creativity thrives when we are willing to be vulnerable and authentic in our expression. By exploring and accepting our shadows, we tap into deeper emotions that can fuel our creative process. We unlock new perspectives, ideas, and creative energies that were previously untapped. This often leads to more imaginative and innovative ideas. Creativity can sometimes be hindered by internal barriers such as self-doubt, fear of failure, or perfectionism. Shadow work helps us address and transcend these blocks by uncovering their underlying causes and working through them. This can free up mental space for more creative flow.
But how?
There are lots of ways to explore your shadows. I’ve linked you to a book for more specifics, but begin by journaling. Take a walk in the woods to ponder what you cover up. Mediate. Make a list of negative patterns in your life. Forgive yourself and give gratitude for the lessons you’ve learned. A shadow is attached to you, so embrace your imperfections. You’re human.
Try playing with shadows. Do it in your art, your photographs, your writing, and in your life. It’s not always easy, but it is transformative.
Discover what’s been hiding in the shadow and uncover the light!
Quotes
“Follow your inner moonlight; don’t hide the madness.”
“There are dark shadows on the earth, but its lights are stronger in the contrast. ”
“Find beauty not only in the thing itself but in the pattern of the shadows, the light and dark which that thing provides.”
Fall Classes are Filling and College EssayEditing is Here!
Check out all the options on my website and contact me if you’d like a private art, writing, or journaling workshop.
What folks say:
“I haven't had this much fun playing with art since kindergarten”
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“Carrie’s process and philosophy about creativity with both art and words is hands-on, accessible, and welcoming. I’ll take more classes with her!”
Thanks for reading. Creativity is not a command performance, but I hope you’ll stay and become inspired. If you know someone interested in creative endeavors, please forward this on!
Yours in spirited creativity,