In the EMPOWER phase, we tap into the positive power of the creative process – cultivating empathy – the better understanding of self and others. We offer reflection and outreach opportunities for artists to align their personal vision and mission with others in their personal, community, and global spheres. 

Artists connect their art and experience to the real world, other artists, occupations, local and global issues, core values and beliefs, and/or their own hopes and dreams. 

Ages 14-15 will spend the most time in the phase, eager to find ways to be advocates, activists, and allies. 

“Knowing my creative process empowers me to give myself permission to be outwardly curious, to more courageously engage with myself to make more meaningful art, expand more fully in new and established relationships, to not shy away from sharing myself and asking others to share with me, and more vibrantly express myself while walking through daily life. It has given me vocabulary to move through the world when words are not usually easy to come by.

The main way I’d like to use the creative process to empower others is to help them move away from perfection, engage with art and creating from a learning perspective or a playful perspective so making art is more accessible and not something someone can fail at.” — Jes

“I learned that with a bit of planning, organization, and patience, I can create better work with less struggle. Taking that time in the beginning makes the “making process” smoother and way more fun.

The Creative Process makes me an ally and cheerleader; it takes away (or at least diffuses) the jealousy and imposter syndrome, and puts me in a place where I can genuinely encourage others because i am secure in myself. It’s essentially a shift into abundance mindset.” — Jaime