You don’t make a photograph with just a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read,

the music you have heard, the people you have loved.

– Ansel Adams

HOW DO YOU MEET YOUR MUSE?

My what? Your muse … your source of inspiration. As visual artists and photographers, we need to “fill our well” on a regular basis with things that push us to do something creative. If you’ve ever said that you just don’t see things or wish you could see things differently, it’s possible you’re not looking in the right places. While many artists wait for the muse to find them, Jamie and I have discovered ways to be inspired by putting ourselves in the right places and situations to do so.

This workshop is not about your gear. It’s not about technical skills, though they do matter. More importantly, this workshop is about learning how to become a better “seer” and receiver. It’s about honing the ‘view finder” in your head. Our days will be structured with wells of opportunity and assignments that guide you through practical steps to find your muse on any path.

To live as an artist is a way of being in the world. A way of perceiving. A practical way of paying attention. Refining our sensitivity to tune in to the more subtle notes. Looking for what draws us in and what pushes us away.

— Rick Rubin, The Creative Act: A Way of Being

WHERE DOES YOUR MUSE RESIDE?

Whatever we are consuming, receiving, taking in steers our creative boat. To grow in our creative journey, we must learn to be a curator of things that enable us to expand our range and elevate our work. The places we visit, the people we meet and the foods we eat all have the potential to spark our minds.

Consider how time spent in nature, museums and art events feed our souls and inject excitement for learning new things, discovering connections and motivate us to look, see and photograph in ways we may not have considered without the experiences. Architecture and visual design can inspire us to interpret abstractly. Viewing art we don’t understand can still offer new insights and perspectives. Do you remember the last time you were inspired? (We do.) If not, this is the perfect workshop for you!