When you think of creativity, you might imagine an artist painting a landscape, a musician composing a song or anyone who considers themselves ‘creative’. But creativity isn’t just about being artistic or producing something perfect. It’s the process of making, exploring and expressing yourself, and doing this in a shared creative space can be a powerful way to build connection. In fact, many of the wellbeing benefits come from enjoying the process of making something, rather than the finished result.

Whether it’s sculpting, knitting, photography, collaging or simply colouring in, group creative activities offer something many of us are looking for: a chance to slow down, focus on the present, and spend time with others without the pressure of making conversation.

Stepping out of her Spark Creative class, Adelaide Hills local Joanne says she always leaves feeling more connected than when she arrived. “I love that there’s no pressure to talk and I can just mindfully doodle away in the presence of others” she says.

For Joanne, the class isn’t just about dedicating time to creative projects, it’s about sharing a space with others who are working individually towards a common goal. Conversations come naturally, and there’s comfort in simply being alongside other people.

Her experience mirrors the research that participating in arts and creative activities with others can reduce stress, improve wellbeing and foster stronger feelings of social connection and belonging.

• Low-pressure environments
  Unlike networking events or social gatherings where conversation is the main focus, creative activities give everyone something to do with their hands and attention. The activity becomes a focal point, taking the pressure off to make conversation and any conversations that flow feel more relaxed.
• Shared sense of purpose
  Sharing a space for a common purpose, even when you’re working on individual projects, provides a collective sense of purpose, and that shared experience encourages trust and empathy, making conversation easy.
• Breaking down barriers
  Creativity gives us permission to be imperfect. Everyone starts somewhere, and that shared vulnerability can help to break down barriers far more quickly than trying to make small talk with a stranger.

 How to bring more creativity to your week

If you’d like to experience the benefits for yourself, here are a few simple ideas:

• Join a local art or craft group
• Spend 20 minutes sketching, colouring or journalling this week. Don’t give yourself lofty goals that feel intimidating and unachievable. Start small, work up from there.
• Invite a friend over for a creative afternoon with tea and conversation. Try collaging, sketching, clay sculpting, or even take a wild stab at writing poetry!
• Visit one of Spark’s new Spark Creativity sessions and enjoy making something alongside others.

So, have a go at creating something new in a shared space and enjoy the connection and sense of community and belonging it provides. You don’t need experience or natural talent; you simply need a willingness to give it a try.

Spark Creativity is held on the 1st and 3rd Mondays each month
4.30pm – 7.30pm at Woorabinda Environment Centre.