By Tonya Mccain, Mable House Arts Center Coordinator

As a visual artist with an advanced degree in visual art, I often find myself grappling with the challenge of creating new work. Despite my deep passion for art and its intersection with my profession, I frequently feel drained, uninspired, and unsure of where to begin. This struggle is not uncommon among creatives and can lead to feelings of isolation and even depression.

For those experiencing a similar creative block, The Artist’s Way Group offers a promising solution. Originally penned by Julia Cameron over 30 years ago, "The Artist’s Way" has earned acclaim for its transformative ability to unlock creative potential. Its core mission is to help individuals identify and overcome barriers that inhibit their artistic flow, allowing them to rediscover the joy and momentum that come from creating art—whether it's visual art, writing, music, or other forms.

Facilitating this 6-week course is Pamela Malkoff, a local artist and licensed art therapist. Her extensive personal and professional experiences underscore the profound importance of creativity in every person’s life. Through this course, Malkoff aims to guide participants in reconnecting with their spiritual journey toward heightened creativity. Beyond individual growth, the group setting fosters a supportive community where participants can share their challenges, insights, and successes.

The structured format of The Artist’s Way Group is designed to provide participants with practical tools and exercises to reignite their creative process. Each week, students engage in exercises aimed at uncovering and dismantling creative barriers such as self-doubt, perfectionism, and fear of failure. By addressing these internal obstacles, participants can liberate their creative energy and regain their artistic momentum.

Joining the group offers numerous benefits beyond overcoming creative blocks. It provides a safe space to explore artistic identity, reconnect with one’s passion for art, and build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Through guided discussions, art therapy techniques, and shared experiences, participants are empowered to embark on a transformative journey toward renewed creativity and fulfillment.

If you're struggling to find inspiration and motivation in your artistic endeavors, consider joining The Artist’s Way Group led by Pamela Malkoff. Embrace this opportunity to rediscover your artistic voice, break free from creative stagnation, and embark on a path toward greater artistic fulfillment.

REGISTER HERE for the Artist’s Way Group at the Mable House Arts Center. Thursdays, August 15th  – September 19th, from 6:30 – 8 pm. $65 R/ $97.50 NR

PAMELA MALKOFF HAYES, LPC, LMFT, LMHC, ATR-BC is a licensed therapist in the states of Georgia, California, Florida, and Rhode Island. She is also a Registered and Board-Certified Art Therapist. Her specialties include: alcohol and drug addictions, relationships, families and parenting, depression and anxiety, grief, LGBTQ, gender identity, open-relationships and sexuality.