Ever heard the phrase “Community is Resistance”? We get it, but honestly… we’re a little tired of everything feeling like a battle. How about, “Community is RESILIENCE.” Let’s be gently subversive and create strength and connection amidst the chaos. 

Think of a wild, messy garden. Monocropped fields not only look boring, they’re also easy targets for all kinds of pests and diseases. But a diverse mix of flowers, weeds and vegetables? They’ve got superpowers! Some plants attract pollinators, some have pest-warding skills, and others share nutrients below the soil. They help each other by simply doing what they each do best.

And aren’t we humans the same? We’re better together, especially when life gets weird. A meal train when someone is ill, watching a friend’s kids when they're in the midst of toddler mind-melt, or simply pooling crazy ideas when a community problem needs solving. If we join across cultures, ages, abilities, and species, our strengths become pure magic. The more diverse and interdependent communities can become, the stronger we’ll be. 

Making art is no different! By coming together in community we learn to face our self-doubt. Alone with your thoughts is prime territory for self-doubt and a blank mind. Making art together? That’s where the magic lives. More and bigger ideas find their way out into the open. We laugh, we talk, and we celebrate each other’s risk-taking. We learn by watching each other, and we realize that it's somehow easier to be vulnerable together. This is why we love hosting Art Labs. 

“What’s an Art Lab?” you ask? Imagine the adult equivalent of parallel play. At an Art Lab, everyone is creating something different, so there is no place for comparison. Instead, we can find inspiration in one another’s creations. That knit pattern Bill is working on reminds you of a bird. Jude’s beading has such a beautiful rainbow of colors. You find yourself collaging a rainbow bird and then using the letter stamps and ink to print it with words that inspire your creative flight. You didn’t plan it, it just sort of happened. Your creation is completely unique, yet inspired by those around you. 

Dig out that unfinished project from the back of your closet, try one of our prompts or projects, or simply choose a material and explore. We have a room full of supplies at our disposal, ranging from pencils and paint to collage fodder and sewing machines. (We’re also always open to supply suggestions and requests.) This is a choose-your-own-adventure! A chance to experiment with materials and ideas you’ve never tried. 

We all need this. Step away from the world of individualism, rushing around, and competition. Call a babysitter for your kids and leave your “grown-up” shoes at the door. Take a deep breath, look at the wonderful humans around you and see where your paintbrush takes you. Come be a kid again. 

Bonus round: This month we’re also hosting a free family-friendly community event (yes, you can bring the kids to this one!). We’ve got a fun craft called Joomchi, which involves felting mulberry paper into a fabric-like product. Colorful, fun, messy, and easy to learn for all ages. Plus, kids tend to be incredibly free and creative, so think of this as a great chance to learn from the masters!

To read our full September newsletter follow this link: https://www.dopamineartlab.org/so/e4Q1LBNm9?languageTag=en