The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron is a powerful work that's popular with writers and artists; many people also use Cameron's book to conduct workshops all over the world. Cameron's advice is powerful and helpful, her method fun and enlightening. Although she has other books on the same subject, many would agree that this title is the one to start with.
The Book The Artist's Way
This is a helpful book for those writers and artists who want to increase their creativity. The book is divided in 12 chapters (for each week) and each one includes keen insights from the author and practical exercises.
Though it is best to follow the workshop on a weekly basis, it is also possible to follow it at the individual's own pace. Some people may want to cover a chapter every two weeks or even longer.
Cameron's"'secret" rests on two tools:
- The Morning Pages are three pages of stream-of consciousness writing written without breaks in long hand. These are to be done every single morning before doing anything else, preferably as soon as one wakes up.
- The Artist's Dates are fun outings at least once a week where the person does something interesting all by him or herself. Could be a trip to a museum, a long walk on the beach, a visit to the local flower shop, etc. The important thing here is that it must be enjoyable and the person must do it alone and not with a friend.
According to Cameron, after three weeks of doing these two activities regularly, one experiences a shift in consciousness. Topics covered in the chapters include creative affirmations, the power of attention and intention, synchronicity, dealing with criticism, blasting through blocks, imagination and many, many others. At the end of each chapter there are exercises, tasks and check-ins.
The book is filled with insight into the nature of creativity and is written in a clear, friendly, engaging style that will be enjoyed by most readers. The chapters and topics follow a natural logic and are well structured, making them easily to follow in group meetings and discussions.
Also, this book is not one to read once and then put away in a shelf; this book is one that many readers will want to keep on their bedside table for easy reach.
About Author Julia Cameron
Julia Cameron has had a remarkable career, which in turn has given much help to others. An award-winning poet, playwright, and filmmaker, she has written thirty books, ranging from her widely-praised, hard-hitting crime novel The Dark Room to her volumes of children's poems and prayers.
Despite her extensive film and theater credits, which include such diverse work as Miami Vice and the prize-winning romantic comedy God's Will, which she both wrote and directed, Cameron is best known for her hugely successful works on creativity.
The Artist's Way has sold more than two million copies worldwide, and her followup bestsellers The Vein of Gold, Walking in this World and The Right to Write are likewise flagship books which are taught in universities, churches, human potential centers and even in tiny clusters deep in the jungles of Panama.
Mayra Calvani - Multi-genre author and reviewer Mayra Calvani has penned 10 books for children and adults. She's a regular contributor to Blogcritics ...
