Finding Creativity in the Spaces Between
Embracing the unseen work of the creative process: Discovering how intentional pauses contribute to more meaningful artistic expression.
In the relentless pursuit of creativity, we often forget that our most valuable tool—our mind—needs moments of respite. As I sit here, contemplating the whirlwind of active projects and our community of amazing artists, I'm reminded that creativity isn't a tap we can simply turn on and off at will. Sometimes, the mind decides it's time for a breather, often without consulting our meticulously planned schedules or looming deadlines.
This reflection was born from a personal experience of creative block. Not a pause in our publication’s activities, but rather a valuable insight worth sharing as we continue to celebrate the creative process.
When the Mind Checks Out
Let's be honest: rarely does there come a time in your creative projects that feels right to step away. But here's the truth we creatives often struggle to accept: the mind will switch off when it wants to switch off, and often it checks out without warning.
It's a peculiar sensation, isn't it? One moment you're immersed in the flow of creativity, and the next, you're staring blankly at a screen. In the past it’s been my natural instinct to wade through this, even when external pressures scream for our attention as opposed to taking a step back to reset. Forcing the process for less-than-positive results, instead of pausing to allow the mind to repair those connections.
The Paradox of Pausing
There's a paradoxical wisdom in knowing when to step back. It might seem counterintuitive, especially when deadlines loom and expectations mount. But consider this: is it truly beneficial to push through, producing work that doesn't meet the standard we've set for ourselves and whichever creative project we’re working on?
Progress only occurs when we come to accept it’s to wait and continue producing work that excites us, when we can give the process our full attention with the end goal being that our photography represents our intention as want it to be seen. Our work deserve nothing less than our genuine engagement and thoughtful attention, especially when the impact of sharing work online is too often diminished by the fleeting nature of social media.
Honoring the Creative Process
A recent unexpected period of struggle has forced me to confront an uncomfortable truth: sometimes, the most productive thing we can do is acknowledge our limitations. To clarify—this was no hiatus per se. In fact, I'd been actively attempting to be productive, but despite my best efforts, I found myself mired in a stubborn creative block.
The desire to create is there, but the output just doesn't match the intention. I sit at my desk, staring at unedited podcast episodes and half-formed project ideas, willing them to form themselves into something meaningful. But creativity, as we all know, can be a fickle creature. Creativity isn't a production line—it's an organic entity that requires nurturing, including periods of static reflection. These moments of stasis, while challenging to accept, are not wasted time. They're part of the creative process, the unseen work happening beneath the surface.
Creativity isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about savoring every step, including those quiet pauses where magic often happens.
This isn’t about stepping back—it’s about leaning into the natural rhythm of creativity. Understanding that the pace may vary, but the commitment remains steadfast: to celebrate artistry in all its forms and share work that inspires meaningful connection. I invite you to reflect on your own creative journey: Are you allowing yourself space to breathe? Are you embracing those moments when your mind asks for rest?
~ Thom ✌️
Founder + Editor
