Writer’s Resources: The Artist’s Way
I never recommend anything. With that in mind, I still come very close to recommending–without reservation–THE ARTIST’S WAY, written by Julia Cameron.
THE ARTISTS WAY is an offshoot of art therapy. It uses visual arts to kick start an artist past difficult spots in their development, no matter what the artist’s main art form is: visual, performing, written. Difficulties can range from “writer’s block” on a current work, to exploring one’s art and moving past a rut in one’s work.
Like all therapy modalities, this one will work for some and not work for others. Art therapy is backed by significant research and success. If I recall correctly, the author might not have strong credentials in the field but she has extensive practical experience working with professional artists. This book would be particularly suited for those who want to make medium or long range change in their artistic expression but don’t have the resources for a personal, professional art therapist.
TAW requires a moderate investment of time–a few hours a week–but otherwise is low impact.
When this book–or art therapy in general–is successful, the artist is most likely to achieve a richer understanding of the artist herself, her relationship to her work and her life–where she wants to progress. The results can be profound and rewarding. That’s a lot for $16.
Someone loaned their copy to me. I found it valuable enough that I went out and purchased my own. I would rate the book a 3 1/2 on a scale of 0 (useless) to 5 (totally changed my life), with the understanding that I’ve never found a ‘5′ and that I find most self help books on writing to be a 2. This one is easily above average and I suspect that I would have rated it higher if I had fulfilled more of the exercises. Wrong time in my life.
Keep in mind: the exercises of TAW lead you to challenge your comfort zone indirectly. I experienced a transitory increase in dissatisfaction. I believe it would have helped if I stuck with the method. Certainly I wish my copy wasn’t in storage right now.
If you are stuck in your art because of competition for “copious spare time,” give this book a pass until later. If you are stuck–or want to avoid becoming stuck–because you want more out of your creative process, this would be the book I recommend.
In the same way that I think it is worthwhile for every artist to have a good, easy access, entry-level guide to journaling, I think TAW belongs on the reference shelf of all artists as a “learn by doing” guide to art therapy. I believe TAW will help a writer to the extent that you permit.