Joy of Creativity Blog
Joy of Creativity Blog
“You can’t use up creativity; the more you use, the more you have” – Maya Angelou
Welcome to The Joy of Creativity, my blog that shares the profound benefits of creativity as well as and the humbling mysteries of dreamwork. This blog also shares monthly “Dreamdrops” – sneak peaks into my personal dreams with brief interpretations that share an introductory (and oftentimes amusing) glimpse into this profound work.
“You can’t use up creativity; the more you use, the more you have” – Maya Angelou
Welcome to The Joy of Creativity, my blog that shares the profound benefits of creativity as well as and the humbling mysteries of dreamwork. This blog also shares monthly “Dreamdrops” – sneak peaks into my personal dreams with brief interpretations that share an introductory (and oftentimes amusing) glimpse into this profound work.
DreamDrop #3: It’s Really REAL!
Elizabeth2024-08-25T09:22:23-07:00August 25th, 2024|
This visitation dream happened exactly two weeks after my very best friend, Byron Keith Byrd, left the earth. Through my dreams, he is as present for me now as he was when he was physically [...]
Dream Drop #2: The Pancake Dream
Elizabeth2024-08-25T08:24:17-07:00March 26th, 2024|
Infinite discoveries like the sewing machine, the periodic table of elements, the law of relativity, and even Google came through the ancient practice of “Dream Incubation.” This profound process has been around for millenia - [...]
DreamDrop #1: Hugged by Jamie Fraser ❤️
Elizabeth2024-08-25T08:36:16-07:00February 8th, 2024|
Welcome to my very first DreamDrops installment, where I share one of my dreams with context, symbols, metaphors, insight and dream guidance. This sneak peek into my psyche is a great example of how a [...]
Life and Depth Dream Tip One: “Life is but a dream”
Elizabeth2022-03-04T11:13:15-08:00March 4th, 2022|
Metaphor: a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them Even if you have zero propensity [...]
The Joy of Creativity: More than Meets the “I” – Documenting Your Dreams
Elizabeth2022-01-03T12:45:53-08:00January 3rd, 2022|
Materials: Journal, online journal, or notes app While the process of documenting your dreams is a personal preference, an online journal like Penzu.com can be very useful. In this way, you can “search” for patterns, [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Awakening to Your Inner Symbols
Elizabeth2021-09-13T14:17:12-07:00September 13th, 2021|
Awakening to our personal symbols is a lifelong journey. They can be individual or collective, they can differ cross-culturally, and can change over time. Symbols are the bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind, offering continual information [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Collage Cards – Discovering Your Inner Symbols
Elizabeth2021-05-22T08:02:23-07:00May 22nd, 2021|
"Nike" by Elizabeth Bryan-Jacobs Set up your materials. Close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths, quieting the mind Set an intention for you unconscious to serve up some symbols Flip through [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Next-Life Treatment Planning
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:58:58-07:00February 22nd, 2021|
Identify One Presenting Problem: what is the one thing that makes you most unhappy now, that you really don’t want to continue…or repeat? Decrease: Commit to one measurable and attainable goal that will help you [...]
The Artist in the Art Therapist; The Artist in You
Elizabeth2021-02-20T08:11:23-08:00February 20th, 2021|
Image courtesy of Barbara Fish, PhD To quote art therapist Pat Allen, “Art is a Way of Knowing,” and for me, there is no greater truth. I have always known that I could [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Setting an Intention
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:54:37-07:00October 22nd, 2020|
Artfulmusings.blogspot.com You will need: 10 minutes of quiet time, paper, pen and any art materials of your choice. Quiet your mind. Close your eyes, and connect with your breath. Notice the gentle rising [...]
Joy of Creativity: Getting Real Answers from an Imaginary You
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:39:24-07:00July 22nd, 2020|
Self-figureand Tree Angel Find a quiet, private place to set up your clay and connect with your breath: Eyes open or closed, notice your inhales and exhales. Maybe it’s your chest rising and falling, [...]
Joy of Creativity: “Coming to Your Senses” a Deep Gratitude Practice
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:35:30-07:00May 22nd, 2020|
You will need: colored pens, pencils or markers, paper and a quiet space. Quiet your mind: Take 2 – 3 minutes to sit down, close your eyes and connect with your breath. If your mind [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Make Art Outside and FEEL BETTER NOW.
Elizabeth2020-03-10T15:58:17-07:00March 10th, 2020|
As an artist, I feel fortunate to continually reap all the goodies that come out of creative practices. Becoming an art therapist has made this even more clear: sharing quick, beneficial creative practices as self-care [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Say, “Goodbye” to Stress by Making a Self-Symbol in Nature
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:29:14-07:00November 22nd, 2019|
Self-Symbol by Elizabeth Bryan-Jacobs Creating a Self-Symbol in nature is a simple, powerful practice that supercharges the benefits of creativity and Mother Earth. It is also a wonderful path to deeper insight and [...]
Joy of Creativity: Fall and Winter Self-Symbols in Nature
Elizabeth2019-11-07T09:05:12-08:00November 7th, 2019|
Creating a Self-Symbol using the earth as a canvas is an incredibly powerful experience that supercharges the healing powers of nature and creativity. I began with a walking meditation as I entered the woods surrounding [...]
MONTHLY BREATH OF FRESH ART: HUSBAND AND WIFE ARTIST TEAMS
Elizabeth2019-10-07T11:11:19-07:00October 7th, 2019|
MONTHLY BREATH OF FRESH ART: HUSBAND AND WIFE ARTIST TEAMS This month’s Breath of Fresh Art pays homage to the husband and wife artist teams that came before me and my artist husband, Bobby [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Discover the Healing Messages in Things You’ve Made
Lauren2019-10-07T11:08:14-07:00October 7th, 2019|
The Joy of Creativity: Discover the Healing Messages in Things You've Made Art-making and creative practices involve three living entities: the artist, the viewer, and whatever it is you’ve made. That’s right: Art therapy teaches [...]
ABCVIP and Creative Awakenings Presents: Art Making as a Celebration of Life!
Elizabeth2019-09-17T11:03:16-07:00September 15th, 2019|
After sharing Creative Awakenings with hundreds of women over the years, I’ve noticed a re-occurring theme: It’s really hard for women to give themselves permission to fully let go! Whether it’s how we were raised, [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Healing Veterans’ Invisible Wounds of War Through Art-Making
Elizabeth2019-09-16T13:05:49-07:00September 4th, 2019|
I am truly honored to share this remarkable story by Amanda Carlson and Ann Thompson about the profound impact that art-making has had on a small group of veterans. These incredible men and women have [...]
Tiny Buddha: Big Blessing!
Elizabeth2019-09-17T08:31:06-07:00September 4th, 2019|
This month, I am especially grateful to have been published on "Tiny Buddha," the world's leading site, blog, community/ social media platform for peace and happiness. It shares simple wisdom from readers and writers all [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Let ‘er Rip
Elizabeth2021-05-22T07:21:12-07:00August 22nd, 2019|
You will need: junk mail or other paper you intend to toss, a few minutes of private time, and permission from yourself to indulge in this joyful, creative practice. Place your junk [...]
MONTHLY BREATH OF FRESH ART: Ridiculously Complicated Made Easy
Elizabeth2019-07-03T13:15:38-07:00July 3rd, 2019|
Have you ever heard a wonderful idea for art that you wished was easier to explain? Here’s one from me: it’s completely unique, inspired by nature, highly personalized, and allows the collector to participate in its [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Four Fast Ways to Feeling Better – Creatively!
Elizabeth2019-06-28T14:08:43-07:00May 19th, 2019|
It's a scientific fact: creativity and creative practices reduce stress, increase well-being, and yes – can even improve medical outcomes.(1) Benefiting from creativity has nothing to do with the end result of what you make [...]
The Joy of Creativity: Make Mandalas on Post-its and Boost Seratonin TODAY
Elizabeth2019-06-24T13:09:12-07:00April 25th, 2019|
You may be thinking that some extra serotonin could be useful right about now but have no clue what a mandala is, much less how to make one. “Mandala” is the Sanskrit word for [...]
A Love Letter for Dissolving Barriers
Elizabeth2018-10-18T14:34:38-07:00October 17th, 2018|
One of the most challenging things in life is having an invisible wall or barrier between ourselves and a loved one. “Love and Courage,” Bobby Jacobs, fossilized bluestone, 78” x 60” x 48” [...]
A Welcome Mat for Worries
Elizabeth2018-09-12T14:47:08-07:00September 11th, 2018|
Featured Art: “NOVA" Mixed media on paper, 20 x 16 inches Rosemary Laurent Let’s face it – most of us worry too much. Worries can be like a stream: they may continually flow, [...]
The Rewards of Teaching Art to Homeless Seniors
Elizabeth2018-08-30T14:40:11-07:00August 30th, 2018|
One of the main tenets of Creative Awakenings is the healing benefits of Creativity. This article about artist Zahava Sherez teaching art to homeless seniors is particularly meaningful - this quote by Zahava stood [...]
Featured Art: Journey Runestone
Elizabeth2018-02-14T13:32:46-08:00January 18th, 2018|
This month’s featured art is a genuine, contemporary Runestone – one that my husband and I created together for a dear friend and collector, Karen C. It tells the story of her “journey” in ancient [...]
Solving Problems Through Art
Elizabeth2018-01-18T12:54:13-08:00January 17th, 2018|
I so enjoyed this Artnet News article about renowned philanthropist/art patron Agnes Gund when it first appeared in May 2017, and was glad to see it recognized as one of the best articles about [...]
Healing Your Personal World
Elizabeth2017-10-17T07:24:32-07:00October 11th, 2017|
Hundreds of people gather in Downtown Las Vegas, during First Friday, Oct. 6, 2017, for the opening ceremony of the Community Healing Garden in memory of the victims in the mass shooting at the [...]
How to Continually Feel Appreciated
Elizabeth2017-08-03T17:36:04-07:00August 2nd, 2017|
Featured Art Secret II: Letting Go Mixed media with oil and watercolor on paper, 17.5 x 11 inches ElizabethBryanJacobs.com This topic is a wonderful continuation of last month’s post, “Breaking Through Personal [...]
Breaking Through Personal Barriers
Elizabeth2017-06-05T13:51:27-07:00June 4th, 2017|
Canyon Ranch Guest Art, Session I Mixed media on paper, 11 x 14 inches I could easily start this blog post out by offering, “Six Top Tips to Breaking Through Personal Barriers,” [...]
Outsmarting Stress
Elizabeth2017-05-11T14:08:09-07:00May 10th, 2017|
Featured Art “Spread Your Wings” Mixed Media on Canvas 39 x 78 inches The experience of creating this month’s Featured Art has been one of the most abiding and uplifting ways to outsmart stress that [...]
Making Resolutions you can actually KEEP
Elizabeth2017-02-27T13:33:34-08:00December 28th, 2016|
I’m losing ten pounds, leaving my partner and am forgoing my lifelong relationship with salted cashews – again. “Box of Crayons,” by Melissa Mason Acrylic on Canvas, 52 x 70 inches MelissaMason.me How [...]
How to Feel Grateful when you feel like $#@!
Elizabeth2017-02-27T13:26:48-08:00October 28th, 2016|
This month’s Spiritual Toolbox Addition is right in tune with the Thanksgiving: it’s called Gratitude, and when you practice it on a regular basis (we are not talking lip service), life is a whole lot [...]
The Myth of Feeling “Behind”
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:42:17-08:00September 27th, 2016|
THIS MONTH'S ADDITION TO THE SPIRITUAL TOOLBOX IS A PROFOUND INSIGHT: Turning Point Oil on canvas, 32.5 x 20.5 inches ©2016 Elizabeth Bryan-Jacobs If you are farther ahead than where you were, you can’t [...]
Featured Art: “Self-Portrait”
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:42:34-08:00August 29th, 2016|
This might not be your typical self-portrait, but at the time in my life when I made it, I like to think you might have recognized if you saw it. Found wood, cast bronze [...]
Dissolving Pain
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:36:58-08:00August 29th, 2016|
I’ve lost count of the number of challenging times in my life that I was soothed by the #3 necessary Tool in Every Spiritual Toolbox. It lowers stress, increases well-being, improves performance, and yes, has [...]
What to Do When You Are Speechless: The #2 Tool in Your Spiritual Toolbox
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:53:04-08:00July 27th, 2016|
We already learned that the #1 Tool in your Spiritual Toolbox is you, because you really do have all the answers. But what is the tool that helps you access you when things are so [...]
Creating Your Spiritual Toolbox
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:35:43-08:00June 29th, 2016|
I’m on the other side of an emotional upset (aren’t we all?), and the Universe has been serving up lots of goodies. What I’m about to share is not all that stuff about being beautiful [...]
Featured Art: “Discovery”
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:49:22-08:00June 29th, 2016|
“Discovery” is a visual account of this month’s blog post - and my life. Discovery, oil on canvas, 13" x 34" Art was the first form of communication (think cave paintings) and it [...]
Featured Art: “Secrets”
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:47:43-08:00May 26th, 2016|
I have been spending weeks going back to the figure and underlying anatomy, which I haven’t practiced since art school... Secrets Watercolor on paper, 21” x 12 It’s probably part of my quest [...]
What to do When Things go South
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:31:16-08:00May 26th, 2016|
Many situations are not really “good or bad,” in and of themselves – we make up those definitions, and they often have nothing to do with reality. By removing the idea that something is bad [...]
Runes: A Powerful Tool of Self-Discovery
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:33:57-08:00April 26th, 2016|
Gebo, Rune of Partnership Runes are an ancient oracle available to anyone ever seeking counsel on a specific situation, and should be part of everyone’s Spiritual Toolbox. Runes don’t answer “yes” or “no” [...]
Five Minutes to Fearlessness: Get “Sense-able.”
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:37:59-08:00March 30th, 2016|
I know. You're thinking, “Here we go again with the Love thing, and I don’t feel very loved or loving right now, even when I look at this super-cute monkey-cuddling-a-tiger photo.” It doesn’t matter – [...]
Get Happier With this Ten-Second Practice!
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:40:08-08:00February 27th, 2016|
Ok. It’s hard enough to believe we have up to 75,000 thoughts a day, but the fact that 75% of them are negative is really crazy. Does that number get even higher if we are [...]
Meditation fully changed the course of my life.
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:41:49-08:00February 27th, 2016|
Sounds dramatic; I know, but it’s true. I was going through extreme personal challenge, and at forty years of age, I had to re-create my life with my two small sons, completely from scratch. I [...]
Runestones: A Powerful, Personalized and Continual Connection to the Universe
Elizabeth2017-02-27T14:59:48-08:00February 2nd, 2016|
Runes and Runestones have long fascinated me. "SoulMating"Elizabeth Bryan Jacobs and Bobby JacobsHand Carved Runestone4’ x 2’ x 4”Fossilized BluestoneCollection of the Artists The earliest Runestones date back to the 4th century, and [...]
As the morning light streamed in the studio window…
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:46:26-08:00January 3rd, 2015|
January 3, 2015: As the morning light streamed in the studio window onto the finished sculpture, we both lost our breath. Not because we created it, but because we knew we really didn’t. “In [...]
Of course the bark arrived before I did…
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:51:20-08:00December 30th, 2014|
December, 2014: Of course the bark arrived before I did, but I made Bobby promise to wait for me to open it. It was holiday, and opening that box of bark was magical – the [...]
It all began in San Diego, but that’s another story…
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:49:37-08:00November 30th, 2014|
November 2014: Living on different coasts has its challenges – but one amazing gift that’s come out of it is that Bobby uses every spare minute to chisel, weld or build spectacular Angel Wings out [...]
It is amazing to me how a 2-3 Day workshop can truly change a person’s life!
Elizabeth2017-03-01T14:50:20-08:00March 4th, 2014|
The time that I spent with you in Ojai did just that for me. Your insights on “Mindset” helped me to reprogram the way I approach each day. In the short time since the workshop, [...]
