Back in 2019 when I took an online art mastery course I was introduced to a group of art colleagues from around the world and we became good friends. It was during the pandemic that we would check in with one another and encourage each other over zoom calls and texts. We all agree that those weekly check-ins really helped us stick with our practice and got us through a really challenging time. We applied as a group into some exhibitions and we did multiple shows together. It’s now been over 4 years and we still check in with one another and in fact are starting up another challenge together! Being in the studio day in and day out, it can get a little lonely and discouraging so having a community I think is key for staying motivated and keeping up your creative practice.

I thought I would share 4 tips in how you can go and find your tribe/ community.

1. Attend Local Art Events

   * check out galleries, art fairs, exhibitions, and open studios in your area. These are set up for you to come and appreciate the arts and as you do take a look around as you will be surrounded by others that are there probably for the same reason you are!

   

2. Join Art Organizations and Groups

   * these could be online but also local/national art organizations that align with your medium or interests. Membership often provides accesss to private social media groups or classes that would give you more resources and networking events or opportunities.

   
   

3. Take Classes, and workshops

   * I already mentioned above that my first online class put me in touch with my art colleagues, who then became friends, but I also enrolled in an Art University that has also given me some great connections and friendships. You learn so much and grow from linking arms with those around you.

   

   
   

4. Participate in Art Residencies or Study Abroad

   *I was blessed to go with my Univeristy to Italy for two summers in a row and I came away with friendships and tons of inspiration.

If you want to see other work or highlights from my Italy trip, you can see them under Italy ‘24 Highlight at the top of my instagram profile.