1. Set the Scene Before You Write

Before diving into the details, take a moment to reconnect with the experience.

• Close your eyes & recall the atmosphere: The sounds, the lighting, the anticipation in the air.
• Flip through your ticket stub, playbill, or notes: Physical elements bring memories to the surface.
• Listen to the soundtrack or revisit clips if available.
• Find a quiet space to write where you can immerse yourself fully.

2. Begin with the Emotional Impact

Start by describing how the performance made you feel.

• What emotions surfaced while watching?
• Did a particular moment move you unexpectedly?
• Was there a lingering mood you carried home with you?

Example: “The final pas de deux left me breathless. It wasn’t just the technique—it was the unspoken emotion between the dancers, the quiet intensity in their expressions.”

3. Describe the Performance Through Your Senses

Go beyond what you saw—engage all five senses.

• Sight: Colors, costumes, lighting effects, facial expressions.
• Sound: The orchestra tuning, the rise and fall of voices, the way silence held weight.
• Touch: The chill of the theater air, the texture of the seats, the press of hands during applause.
• Smell: The mix of stage fog, perfume, old theater wood.
• Taste: The intermission drink, the lingering mint from your purse.

Sensory details bring the experience to life in your writing.

4. Capture the Movement & Energy

For dance, theater, or music performances, movement plays a vital role.

• Was the choreography fluid, sharp, weightless?
• Did the actors use stillness or grand gestures to convey emotion?
• How did the musicians shape the energy of the performance?

Example: “The lead actor’s movements felt electric—every step deliberate, every pause heavy with meaning.”

5. Reflect on the Story & Themes

Every performance tells a story, whether abstract or narrative-driven.

• What themes stood out to you?
• Did the story unfold in a way you expected?
• Were there symbolic elements in the set, lighting, or costumes?

Example: “The costuming told its own story—muted tones for the past, vivid jewel colors for the present. It was a visual timeline of the character’s journey.”

6. Compare Your Expectations vs. Reality

• Did the performance surprise you?
• Were there standout moments that defied your assumptions?
• Did it remind you of past experiences or performances?

Example: “I expected the score to be dramatic, but the subtle shifts in volume were what really drew me in—soft, barely-there notes that made the loud moments even more powerful.”

7. Give Yourself a Creative Prompt

To deepen your reflection, try a writing exercise:

• Write a letter to the performers expressing what the show meant to you.
• Describe a single moment in detail as if you were painting a picture with words.
• Rewrite a scene or movement from your perspective.

These prompts push your writing beyond description into personal interpretation.

8. Make It a Habit

Your journal entries can become a personal archive of artistic experiences.

• Keep a dedicated performance journal to track your reflections.
• Include sketches, playbill snippets, or ticket stubs.
• Note how each performance changes the way you see art and storytelling over time.

By capturing performances in a journal, you transform fleeting moments into lasting memories. What’s the next show you can’t wait to write about?

The post How to Capture the Feeling of a Performance in a Journal Entry appeared first on The BJY.

1. Romanticize Your Everyday Entrances & Exits

Theater is all about making an entrance (or exit) with intention.

• Start your day like a scene change. Picture yourself stepping into a new act, ready to embody the role of your most creative self.
• Dress with flair. Whether bold or understated, let your outfit choices reflect a curated persona.
• Leave a space with presence. Walk with purpose, close doors softly, and embrace the power of movement.

Try this: Next time you enter a room, imagine what kind of lighting, music, or mood would match the moment. How would you stage it?

2. Set the Scene With Lighting & Sound

Theater directors use lighting and sound to create atmosphere—so can you.

• Use warm, moody lighting at home instead of harsh overhead lights.
• Create a playlist for different moods, just like a film score.
• Experiment with candlelight, fairy lights, or colored bulbs to shift the energy of your space.

Try this: Light a candle as if cueing a new scene, signaling a shift from work to relaxation, day to night, or reality to imagination.

3. Speak With Intention & Expression

In theater, words are powerful. Make your communication just as intentional.

• Pause for dramatic effect. Let words land before rushing to the next thought.
• Enunciate and play with tone. A well-timed whisper or an excited exclamation can make ordinary conversations feel dynamic.
• Read aloud with theatricality. Whether it’s poetry, dialogue, or even a simple text message, embody the rhythm of the words.

Try this: Recite your favorite line from a play or movie in the mirror and experiment with different deliveries.

4. Add a Touch of Costuming

What you wear tells a story—lean into it.

• Wear pieces that evoke a character. A long coat, structured silhouette, or vintage accessory can change how you carry yourself.
• Incorporate theatrical elements. Embroidered details, lace gloves, or a dramatic hat can add just enough flair.
• Experiment with eras. One day, you’re in a 1920s-inspired silk dress; the next, you’re in a structured avant-garde look.

Try this: Pick a theme for a day—Old Hollywood, French Romantic, or Dramatic Minimalist—and let it influence your outfit.

5. Embrace Grand Gestures & Expressive Movement

Theatricality thrives in movement.

• Let your body tell a story. Walk like you belong in a scene, move with grace, and use your hands to emphasize emotion.
• Dance through daily tasks. Choreograph simple movements into your routine—stirring coffee, putting on shoes, closing a book.
• Sit and stand with poise. Imagine yourself in a period drama, and carry yourself accordingly.

Try this: When getting dressed, try the costume change reveal—throw on a jacket dramatically, spin into a skirt, or step into heels with intention.

6. Create a Signature Ritual or Monologue

A well-loved theater piece often features a monologue or repeated motif.

• Write a personal “opening line” for your mornings. Something uplifting to set the tone.
• End your evenings with a closing ritual. A handwritten note, a deep breath by candlelight, or a whispered phrase.
• Recite a line of poetry or a favorite script before starting your day.

Try this: What’s a phrase you want to embody? Say it aloud as if you’re delivering it to an audience.

7. Make Time for Theatrical Inspiration

Surround yourself with creative influences.

• Watch classic plays and films for set design, costuming, and dialogue inspiration.
• Read scripts or attend live performances to immerse yourself in the rhythm of storytelling.
• Decorate with theatrical elements, like vintage playbills, dramatic drapery, or opera-inspired details.

Try this: Start a tradition of watching a filmed stage production once a month and reflecting on its artistic choices.

8. Allow for Improvisation & Spontaneity

Theater is full of unexpected moments—invite them into your life.

• Say “yes, and” more often. Treat opportunities like improv—build on ideas instead of shutting them down.
• Try new experiences with a sense of adventure. Treat your life like an unfolding script.
• Embrace serendipity. The best moments aren’t always planned—they happen when you’re open to them.

Try this: Let go of routine for a day and follow whatever creative impulses arise.

By bringing theatrical magic into your daily life, you turn ordinary moments into something cinematic, expressive, and unforgettable. What scene will you create today? View our other articles: Reconnect with Your Inner Energy here, Unlock Your Creative Potential here, and Reignite Your Sense of Wonder here.

The post How to Bring Theatrical Magic Into Your Daily Life appeared first on The BJY.

1. Define Your Vision & Concept

Before you gather images, clarify your goal: Need inspiration? Check out our post on Francesca da Rimini’s set design here.

• What story are you telling? Think of a mood board as a narrative tool.
• What emotions do you want to evoke? Cozy, ethereal, dramatic, nostalgic?
• What time period or aesthetic are you channeling? Classic, futuristic, minimalist, baroque?

Set designers begin with a strong vision—so take time to define yours before collecting visuals.

2. Choose a Strong Color Palette

Color is one of the first elements that set the tone of a space or scene. Like they did in the set design for Casanova here. Consider:

• Muted pastels for softness & nostalgia
• Rich jewel tones for drama & elegance
• Monochrome palettes for minimalism & sophistication
• Earthy neutrals for warmth & organic storytelling

Set designers often pull colors from paintings, fabrics, or even nature to find authentic palettes.

3. Gather Visual References from Diverse Sources

Don’t just pull from obvious places—set designers look everywhere for inspiration. You can see the example in the set design for The Fire Shut Up In My Bones here.

• Fine Art: Classic paintings, sculpture, abstract textures
• Photography: Editorial fashion, travel, documentary imagery
• Architecture: Historical buildings, modern interiors, unique spaces
• Typography & Graphic Design: Fonts, posters, signage
• Textiles & Materials: Fabrics, wallpaper patterns, natural textures
• Film & Theater Staging: Cinematic stills, lighting styles, production design

Mixing these elements creates a mood board that’s layered and dimensional.

4. Incorporate Texture & Depth

Set designers don’t work in 2D—your mood board shouldn’t either.

• Layer different materials: Include fabric swatches, paper textures, and paint samples.
• Play with light and shadow: How does the environment interact with the elements?
• Think beyond digital: If possible, create a physical board with tactile elements.

Textures add depth, making your vision feel more immersive.

5. Use Composition & Layout to Tell a Story

A well-structured mood board has rhythm and flow.

• Cluster similar colors together to create visual harmony.
• Use diagonal or asymmetrical layouts for dynamic energy.
• Incorporate negative space to avoid overwhelming the board.
• Create sections for different aspects: lighting, costumes, props, mood.

Set designers organize mood boards to guide the eye naturally through the concept.

6. Include Words & Descriptive Language

Mood boards aren’t just about images—language helps reinforce the vision.

• Add single-word descriptors (e.g., “mysterious,” “ethereal,” “industrial”).
• Use quotes or snippets of text that capture the mood.
• Include font and typography inspiration to guide the tone of a project.

Words anchor the aesthetic, ensuring it translates beyond just visuals.

7. Refine & Curate Thoughtfully

A mood board should feel intentional, not chaotic.

• Edit ruthlessly: Remove anything that doesn’t serve the vision.
• Limit the number of images per section to keep it focused.
• Adjust colors & layouts to maintain harmony.
• Step away & revisit later to ensure the mood still resonates.

Set designers constantly refine their boards to keep them aligned with the artistic direction.

8. Translate Your Mood Board into Action

A great mood board isn’t just inspirational—it’s functional.

• Use it as a guide for styling, design, or creative execution.
• Share it with collaborators to visually communicate your vision.
• Print it out & display it in your workspace for ongoing inspiration.

Mood boards should bridge the gap between imagination and reality.

By approaching mood boards like a set designer, you create more than just a collage—you craft a fully realized visual story that can guide any creative project. What will you bring to life next?

The post How to Build a Mood Board Like a Set Designer appeared first on The BJY.

Smash

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to create a Broadway hit, Smash offers a front-row seat to the drama, ambition, and artistry that define the theater world. The series follows the journey of Bombshell, a fictional musical about Marilyn Monroe, and the rivalries, heartbreaks, and triumphs of the people bringing it to life. With dazzling musical numbers and a star-studded cast, including Megan Hilty and Katharine McPhee, Smash is a love letter to Broadway that’s equal parts glitz and grit. It’s perfect for a summer evening when you want to lose yourself in the magic of showbiz.

Fosse/Verdon

For a deeper dive into the complexities of art and collaboration, Fosse/Verdon delivers a masterful portrayal of the legendary partnership between Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon. This series explores their creative highs and personal lows, offering an unflinching look at the cost of genius and the resilience of their bond. Michelle Williams and Sam Rockwell give powerhouse performances, bringing to life a story that’s as emotionally charged as it is visually stunning. Fosse/Verdon is a reminder of the power of collaboration and the enduring impact of iconic art.

This month’s Watch Party lineup invites us to explore the glimmering world of Broadway through two very different lenses. Whether you’re basking in the ambition and spectacle of Smash or reflecting on the raw humanity of Fosse/Verdon, these shows offer a perfect blend of entertainment and insight.

Take your screen time outside, set up a cozy backyard viewing, or pair an episode with a breezy evening walk. However you choose to watch, we hope these stories spark your creativity and add a little drama (the good kind!) to your summer.

What are you most excited to watch this June? Share your thoughts with us, and let’s make this summer one to remember!

The post June Watch Party: Broadway Drama and Dazzle with Smash and Fosse/Verdon appeared first on The BJY.

1. Identify Your Creative Mood

Start by asking yourself: What kind of inspiration am I craving? Different moods call for different types of books. Yes, like our review of Women Painting Women here.

• Feeling Dreamy & Romantic? Choose books filled with stunning photography, fashion, or nature.
• Need a Creative Boost? Look for design, architecture, or behind-the-scenes theater books.
• In the Mood for Reflection? Pick up books on art history, philosophy, or poetry.
• Seeking Playfulness? Opt for quirky pop culture books, bold graphic design, or playful typography collections.

2. Choose a Book Based on Your Artistic Interests

Let your personal creative passions guide your selection. Like Solange Knowles’ Coffee Table book here.

• For Fashion & Style Enthusiasts: Books on haute couture, ballet costumes, or fashion photography.
• For Theater & Film Lovers: Behind the scenes Broadway books, cinema set design, or vintage movie posters.
• For Art & Design Admirers: Books on modern art movements, design principles, or an artist’s personal sketchbooks.
• For Writers & Poets: Anthologies, books on creative writing, or handwritten letters from historical creatives.

3. Look for Books That Are Visually Inspiring

The best coffee table books engage not just your mind but your senses.

• Photography Books: Stunning landscapes, portraits, or conceptual art can shift your perspective.
• Illustrated Collections: From botanical drawings to whimsical sketches, these spark imagination.
• Typography & Design Books: Bold graphics, color studies, and lettering styles stimulate creative thinking.
• Curated Essays & Quotes: Sometimes a single sentence can unlock a new idea.

4. Consider the Book’s Format & Aesthetic

A coffee table book is part of your space its presence should reflect your style.

• Large, Statement Pieces: Oversized books with luxurious imagery create an instant focal point.
• Compact & Minimalist: Smaller books with refined covers complement a clean aesthetic.
• Textured or Interactive: Books with embossed covers, fabric bindings, or fold-out pages add tactile interest.
• Stack & Layer: Mixing different sizes and orientations creates an effortlessly artistic display.

5. Rotate Books to Match the Season or Your Current Interests

Your coffee table books don’t have to be static switch them up!

• Spring & Summer: Floral photography, travel books, and bright, airy art collections.
• Autumn & Winter: Cozy literary anthologies, historical art movements, and deep color palettes.
• New Creative Phases: If you’re diving into a new artistic practice, find books that complement your exploration.

6. Source Unique & Meaningful Books

Instead of buying mass market books, seek out ones with a personal connection. We have made a curated list here.

• Independent Bookstores & Museum Shops: Often have rare or exclusive editions.
• Vintage & Antique Finds: Adds character and a sense of history.
• Artist or Designer Editions: Limited run books often feel more special.
• Gifts & Personal Memories: A book from a meaningful trip or a loved one carries sentimental value.

7. Let the Book Inspire an Experience

A coffee table book can be more than just something to browse it can set the stage for a creative moment.

• Host a Coffee Table Book Club: Discuss art, fashion, or culture over tea or wine.
• Use It for Daily Inspiration: Flip to a random page each morning and let it shape your mood.
• Pair It With an Activity: Read a dance photography book before a ballet class or a Parisian art book before a trip to a museum.

A well-chosen coffee table book is more than just a beautiful object it’s a gateway to new ideas, emotions, and artistic exploration. What book will you reach for next?

The post How to Pick the Perfect Coffee Table Book to Match Your Creative Mood appeared first on The BJY.

1. Define Your Creative Purpose

A strong arts ritual starts with intention. Need help with your intention check out our course Creativity Unleashed as a jump start here. Ask yourself:

• What kind of creative work excites and fulfills me?
• How do I want my art practice to make me feel?
• What time of day am I naturally most inspired?
• What environment best supports my creativity?

Clarifying these questions helps you create a ritual that aligns with your artistic needs and lifestyle.

2. Set Up a Dedicated Creative Space

Your environment influences your artistic flow. Whether it’s a full studio or a cozy corner, curate a space that inspires you.

• Keep tools easily accessible: Brushes, notebooks, or instruments should be within reach.
• Minimize distractions: Create a tech free or quiet zone.
• Incorporate sensory elements: Candles, playlists, or natural light enhance the experience.
• Personalize it: Surround yourself with art, quotes, and objects that inspire your creativity.

3. Choose a Ritual Structure

Your arts ritual should have a repeatable flow that signals to your mind, It’s time to create. Consider:

• Opening Cue: A short practice to begin (lighting a candle, making tea, stretching).
• Creative Session: Dedicate 15-60 minutes to engaging with your art.
• Closing Reflection: A moment to jot down thoughts, take a breath, or review your work.

The consistency of a ritual helps overcome creative resistance and makes it easier to start.

4. Experiment With Different Rituals

Not all rituals work for everyone try different approaches to see what feels right. If you want to enhance your Wonder and Curiosity check out our course here.

• Morning Pages: Write 3 pages of free-flowing thoughts every morning (a practice inspired by Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way).
• Movement & Expression: Stretch, dance, or walk before beginning your creative work.
• Time-Based Practice: Set a timer for 20-30 minutes and create without judgment.
• Daily Sketch or Doodle: Draw something simple every day to keep ideas flowing.

5. Make It Enjoyable, Not Rigid

Rituals should feel inviting, not restrictive. Movement for Movement’s Sake maybe of interest to you here.

• Allow for variation some days may be longer or shorter.
• Change elements as your creativity evolves.
• Take breaks if needed, but always return to the practice.

The goal is to develop consistency without pressure.

6. Connect With Other Creatives

Surrounding yourself with like minded individuals fuels inspiration.

• Join an artist collective or online community.
• Attend workshops, open mics, or gallery nights.
• Share your progress with a creative accountability partner.

Engaging with others keeps you motivated and introduces fresh perspectives. Check out our post about supporting local artist here.

7. Track & Reflect on Your Creative Growth

Looking back on your progress can be incredibly rewarding.

• Keep a creativity journal: Note ideas, breakthroughs, and challenges.
• Create a “done” list: Celebrate completed projects instead of only focusing on what’s next.
• Review & adjust: If a ritual stops working, tweak it to fit your current creative season.

By developing a personal arts ritual, you turn creativity into a habit—one that evolves with you and becomes a source of daily inspiration. What small ritual can you start today to nourish your artistic self?

You don’t need a plan just curiosity. The Art of Wonder is a self-paced 4-week course to help you slow down, notice more, and reawaken your creative gaze. HERE!

The post How to Build a Personal Arts Ritual (Inspired by Artists & Creatives) appeared first on The BJY.

1. Attend Local Performances and Exhibitions

One of the simplest and most impactful ways to support the arts is to show up. Check out this months Compass for performance recommendations here.

• Buy tickets to performances, plays, and concerts even smaller productions need audiences.
• Visit art galleries and exhibitions, especially those featuring emerging local artists.
• Explore community arts festivals and street fairs where artists and performers showcase their work.
• Consider season passes or memberships to local theaters and museums to sustain them year-round.

2. Purchase Directly from Local Artists

Investing in local creatives keeps their work alive and accessible.

• Buy original artwork, prints, or handmade goods instead of mass produced alternatives.
• Commission custom pieces if you want something unique for your home or as a gift.
• Support independent musicians by purchasing albums, merch, or digital downloads instead of streaming alone.
• Shop at local craft fairs, markets, and artist-run boutiques instead of large retail chains.

3. Spread the Word

Your voice can help amplify an artist’s reach.

• Share your experiences on social media, whether it’s an art show, theater performance, or local concert.
• Write reviews for productions, galleries, or arts organizations on Google, Yelp, or local forums.
• Recommend artists and theaters to friends and family who might be interested.
• Tag artists and businesses when you post about their work to give them direct exposure.

4. Volunteer Your Time and Skills

Not all support requires financial investment your time is just as valuable.

• Offer to help with event setups or promotional efforts at community art events.
• Lend professional skills (photography, graphic design, social media management) to an artist or arts organization.
• Join a local arts committee or nonprofit board to help shape cultural initiatives in your city.
• Teach or mentor young artists by hosting workshops or collaborating with local programs.

5. Advocate for the Arts in Your Community

A thriving arts scene benefits everyone, but it often requires public support.

• Attend city council meetings where arts funding or policies are discussed.
• Vote for policies and initiatives that protect and fund local arts programs.
• Encourage schools and organizations to prioritize arts education.
• Join or support arts advocacy groups that work to keep creative industries thriving.

6. Engage With Artists Beyond the Gallery or Stage

Building relationships with artists deepens your connection to their work.

• Follow local artists and theaters on social media to stay updated on new projects.
• Attend artist talks, Q&A sessions, or backstage tours to understand their creative process.
• Subscribe to artist newsletters to get exclusive insights and updates.
• Support crowdfunding efforts for upcoming projects, exhibitions, or performances.

7. Make Art Part of Your Everyday Life

Incorporating the arts into daily routines keeps creativity thriving in the community.

• Decorate your home with local art instead of mass produced decor.
• Listen to local musicians or attend open mic nights.
• Incorporate art based activities like poetry readings, dance nights, or film screenings into your social calendar.
• Encourage friends and family to engage with the arts by inviting them to shows and exhibits.

Supporting the arts isn’t just a one time act it’s a lifestyle. Whether through attending events, buying art, or simply sharing enthusiasm for creativity, your efforts help ensure that the arts continue to flourish in your community. How will you engage with the local arts scene this week?

You don’t need a plan just curiosity. The Art of Wonder is a self-paced 4-week course to help you slow down, notice more, and reawaken your creative gaze. HERE!

The post How to Support Local Artists and Theaters in Your Community appeared first on The BJY.

1. Choose a City With a Vibrant Arts Scene

Before planning your itinerary, pick a destination that speaks to your artistic spirit.

• Major Cultural Hubs: New York City, Paris, London, Chicago, San Francisco.
• Underrated Arts Cities: Santa Fe, Charleston, Montreal, Mexico City, Kyoto.
• Themed Getaways: A city known for a specific art form (e.g., Nashville for music, Venice for visual art, Vienna for classical performances).

Try this: Choose a city based on the art experience you’re craving gallery hopping, theater, street art, or fashion.

2. Book an Artistically Inspiring Stay

Where you stay sets the tone for your arts filled retreat.

• Boutique Art Hotels: Many feature rotating exhibits and artist designed interiors.
• Historic Inns & Themed Stays: A charming literary themed B&B or a converted artist loft can add to the experience.
• Artist Residencies or Creative Spaces: Some cities offer short term artist residencies where you can live among creatives.
• Hotel with a View: Opt for a stay near a museum, theater district, or historic quarter.

Try this: Research hotels or rentals known for their artistic atmosphere and unique decor.

3. Plan Your Museum & Gallery Visits Strategically

No arts trip is complete without immersing yourself in museums and galleries, but avoid overwhelming your schedule.

• Start with a flagship museum. The Louvre, The Met, The Tate pick one major institution.
• Balance with small, intimate galleries. Visit emerging artists or niche collections.
• Explore unique art spaces. Museums inside historic homes, sculpture parks, or digital art experiences.
• Attend curator talks or guided tours. They offer deeper insight into the exhibits.

Try this: Pick one large museum and balance it with two to three smaller, off the beaten path spots.

4. Immerse Yourself in Live Performances

A weekend arts getaway should include a night of live creativity.

• Theater & Musicals: Book tickets to a Broadway show, experimental theater, or Shakespeare in the park.
• Dance & Opera: Check for ballet, modern dance, or opera performances.
• Live Music: Explore jazz clubs, classical concerts, or indie music venues.
• Spoken Word & Poetry Readings: Many cities have hidden literary gems, from open mics to famous author readings.

Try this: Plan one evening centered around a performance choose the venue, then plan a pre show dinner nearby.

5. Explore Public & Street Art

Some of the best art is free and out in the open.

• Mural Walks: Many cities have guided tours or maps of their street art districts.
• Sculpture Parks & Outdoor Installations: Seek out interactive and large scale works.
• Architectural Gems: From Art Deco to Brutalism, buildings can be artistic experiences in themselves.
• Graffiti & Alternative Art Spaces: Visit places where underground artists showcase their work.

Try this: Research a self-guided street art walk and document the experience through photos or sketches.

6. Experience Art Through Food & Drink

Food is an art form seek out experiences that are visually and conceptually creative.

• Dine in Artist-Owned Restaurants or Historic Cafés. Find places with a strong artistic connection.
• Visit a Literary or Art Themed Café. Places inspired by writers, poets, or movements add to the atmosphere.
• Attend a Theatrical Dining Experience. Some cities offer immersive dining where food and storytelling intertwine.
• Indulge in Artisanal & Conceptual Cuisine. Choose places known for their plating, seasonal artistry, or experimental food design.

Try this: Pick a dining spot where the experience itself feels like a form of art.

7. Engage in Hands-On Creative Activities

Sometimes the best way to experience art is to create it yourself.

• Take a Workshop or Class. Pottery, printmaking, dance, or floral arrangement.
• Visit an Artist’s Studio. Some cities offer open studio tours where you can meet artists.
• Join a Sketch Walk. Draw cityscapes or museum pieces with a group of artists.
• Participate in an Art-Themed Experience. Immersive exhibitions often have interactive components.

Try this: Book a short creative class in the city you’re visiting—it makes for a unique and memorable souvenir.

8. Build in Time for Reflection & Inspiration

An arts-filled getaway isn’t just about seeing—it’s about absorbing.

• Keep a Travel Journal. Sketch, jot down impressions, or collect ticket stubs.
• Have a Slow Morning at a Museum Café. Let the art settle in rather than rushing.
• Take a Book That Enhances the Experience. A novel set in the city, an art theory book, or poetry that fits the mood.
• Walk Without a Destination. Some of the best creative moments come from wandering.

Try this: Set aside an hour at the end of each day to write, reflect, or create based on your experiences.

By designing an arts filled itinerary, your weekend getaway becomes more than just a trip it becomes an immersive, inspiring experience. If you liked this post check out others: How to Cultivate a Deep Connection With Art (Beyond Just Viewing) here and How to Explore a New City Like a True Arts Enthusiast here. Where will your next creative journey take you?

You don’t need a plan just curiosity. The Art of Wonder is a self-paced 4-week course to help you slow down, notice more, and reawaken your creative gaze. HERE!

The post How to Curate an Arts Filled Itinerary for a Weekend Getaway appeared first on The BJY.

1. Step Away & Shift Your Environment

Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need.

• Go for a walk. Let your mind wander while observing your surroundings.
• Rearrange your workspace. Shift furniture, add fresh flowers, or declutter.
• Visit a new place. A museum, bookstore, park, or even a different café can spark new ideas.

Try this: Move to a different space and bring your creative tools with you see how your ideas shift in a new environment.

2. Engage in a Different Art Form

Creativity thrives on cross pollination. We offer a great course that helps exploring movement without all of the pressures of normal movement classes. It’s called Movement for Movement’s Sake which can be found here!

• Writers: Listen to music, paint, or dance.
• Artists: Read poetry, watch a film, or experiment with sound.
• Musicians: Visit an art gallery, study architecture, or try photography.

Try this: Spend 15 minutes engaging in an art form you normally don’t practice and see what connections emerge.

3. Create Without Pressure or Expectation

Not everything has to be a masterpiece. We also have a great course that just gets you started creating called Creativity Unleashed it can be found here.

• Doodle, free write, or improvise. Let go of perfection and just create.
• Use a limited time frame. Set a timer for five minutes and see what emerges.
• Make bad art intentionally. Remove pressure by playing with imperfection.

Try this: Give yourself permission to make something without showing it to anyone.

4. Seek Inspiration in the Mundane

Beauty and creativity exist everywhere you just have to notice.

• Observe small details. The patterns in your coffee foam, the way light hits a surface, the sounds of a street corner.
• Write down overheard conversations. Snippets of real life dialogue can spark ideas.
• Reframe the ordinary. Imagine your daily routine as a film scene or a novel chapter.

Try this: Take a five-minute walk and find something beautiful in a place you usually overlook.

5. Change Your Creative Process

If your usual approach isn’t working, experiment with a new one.

• Reverse your workflow. Start with the ending and work backward.
• Use constraints. Limit yourself to a single color, one sentence, or a single instrument.
• Try a new tool. Swap digital for analog, try a new medium, or work in a different format.

Try this: If you always work seated, stand. If you always start with an outline, begin with a freeform sketch.

6. Take an Inspiration Break

Sometimes, forcing creativity does more harm than good.

• Read about other artists’ creative struggles. Their journeys can remind you that blocks are temporary.
• Watch a film, listen to a podcast, or flip through a coffee table book. Let visuals and stories guide your thinking.
• Do something completely unrelated. Cook, garden, organize—your brain will still be working in the background.

Try this: Take an intentional break, then return to your work with fresh eyes.

7. Move Your Body to Move Your Mind

Physical movement can unlock creative flow.

• Dance, stretch, or do yoga. Shake out stagnant energy.
• Go for a run or a swim. Repetitive motion helps process thoughts.
• Change your posture while working. Sit on the floor, stand, or lie down and brainstorm.

Try this: Set a timer for two minutes and move freely before returning to your creative work.

8. Use Prompts & Challenges

Sometimes, structure can spark creativity.

• Use creative prompts. Pick a random word, image, or phrase and create something around it.
• Set a fun challenge. Draw with your non dominant hand, write a story in six words, compose a melody in five minutes.
• Join a community challenge. Participate in a daily art, poetry, or journaling challenge.

Try this: Open a book to a random page, choose the first sentence you see, and use it as inspiration for your next creative piece.

9. Look to Nature for Inspiration

Nature offers endless creative fuel.

• Sketch natural patterns. Leaves, waves, clouds nature is full of interesting shapes.
• Write about sensory experiences. The smell of rain, the feel of tree bark, the sound of wind through grass.
• Photograph details. Zoom in on textures, reflections, and organic compositions.

Try this: Spend 10 minutes outside without a phone, simply observing and absorbing your surroundings.

10. Trust That Inspiration Will Return

Creative blocks don’t last forever sometimes, you just need to give yourself grace.

• Let go of self-judgment. Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing it’s part of the process.
• Remind yourself of past inspiration. Revisit old work that you’re proud of.
• Allow rest. Creativity often returns when you stop chasing it.

Try this: Write a note to your future self with encouragement for the next time you feel creatively stuck.

Creative blocks are temporary, but inspiration is always within reach. What’s one small action you can take today to invite creativity back?

You don’t need a plan just curiosity. The Art of Wonder is a self paced 4-week course to help you slow down, notice more, and reawaken your creative gaze. HERE!

The post How to Find Inspiration When You’re Feeling Creatively Stuck appeared first on The BJY.

There’s the work everyone sees the posts, the product, the launch.
And then there’s the work that holds all of that up:
the checklists, the quiet thinking, the way I leave myself notes on yellow paper like I’m sending a message to the version of me who might forget why this all matters.

This post is about that part.

The Invisible Part of the Studio

People assume that when you run a creative studio especially one that looks a certain way you’re just creating all the time. Flowing effortlessly between big ideas, client projects, and inspired blog posts.

But the truth is:
I don’t get to create unless something beneath it is solid.
Something quiet. Something stable. Something soft but firm.

That’s what I’ve been building.

Behind every visual, every series, every piece of curriculum there’s a rhythm.
Not rigid. Just rooted.

The Way I Work

I’m a morning person.
I like when the world is still a little foggy, when there’s time to settle into something without being pulled in five directions. That’s when I do my best thinking.

I only take on 3 to 6 freelance clients at a time
not because I couldn’t do more, but because I don’t want to.

I don’t thrive in noise. I don’t perform under pressure.
My version of success looks like calm systems, loyal relationships, and a Google Drive folder that actually makes sense.

Most of the studio lives in Notion and Docs.
I build client trackers, content calendars, project plans not to look productive, but because they let me breathe. And when I breathe, the work is better.

Why It Matters

Sometimes I think we forget that structure isn’t the opposite of creativity.
It’s the thing that allows it.

My systems protect my time.
They protect my energy.
They hold the weight so my art doesn’t have to.

It’s the same for my clients.
When I support them whether through backend ops, content planning, or project flow I’m not trying to “streamline their brand.” I’m just trying to give their work room to land.

Because when you remove the chaos, people start to remember what they actually wanted to build.

The Quiet Part

I don’t know if anyone will read this, but I know I needed to write it.
And if you found it, maybe you needed a reminder too:

You don’t have to be loud to be powerful.
You don’t have to rush to be relevant.
The quiet part matters.

PS — Want to See the Work?

This post lives on the blog, but the client side of the studio lives here!

Explore a work example here!

The post How I Hold the Work appeared first on The BJY.