The Power of Creative Community

Making art in the presence of others reduces isolation and creates a sense of connection - Bruce Moon

There's something profound that happens when we create art together. As a Board Certified Art Therapist and artist, I've witnessed how the simple act of making art in the presence of others can transform both individual experience and group dynamics. Bruce Moon, a pioneer in art therapy education and renowned expert in art-based group therapy, has extensively studied and written about the unique power of creating in community. His work has shaped how art therapists understand and facilitate group processes. As Moon notes, "Making art in the presence of others reduces isolation and creates a sense of connection" (Moon, p. 87). This connection forms the foundation for deeper healing and understanding, offering opportunities for growth that simply aren't possible in isolation.

The Unique Power of Creating Together

When we make art alone, we engage in dialogue with ourselves. But when we create in community, we open up new possibilities for connection and understanding. The energy in the room shifts as people begin to work with materials, each finding their own rhythm while remaining aware of others' presence. The simple act of working alongside others, even in silence––and even virtually––builds a sense of shared purpose and understanding that transcends verbal communication.

Moon observes that "Through the process of creating together, sharing and responding artistically, group members are able to receive meaningful support from one another" (Moon, p. 191). This mutual support creates a container where both individual expression and collective wisdom can flourish. Whether we're working with collage materials, exploring paint, working digitally, or drawing with simple materials, the act of creating alongside others adds depth to our experience. I've witnessed this in my groups time and again - someone might begin tentatively with their materials, but as they observe others engaging freely with their creative process, their own expression begins to open up.

Through the process of creating together, sharing and responding artistically, group members are able to receive meaningful support from one another

In my upcoming winter art-based healing group for adult adoptees, we'll explore this power of collective creativity through various artistic processes. Participants often discover that seeing others navigate creative challenges gives them permission to experiment in their own work. Sometimes it's watching someone else boldly apply color that inspires us to take risks in our own piece. Other times, it's the shared vulnerability of trying something new together that builds connection. Whether we're creating vision boards, exploring symbolic imagery, or engaging in spontaneous mark-making, the group energy supports and enhances individual expression.

Building Trust Through Shared Creation

The act of creating together builds trust in unique ways. Unlike traditional group settings that rely solely on verbal exchange, art-making offers a different pathway to connection. Colors, shapes, and marks become a shared language, allowing people to communicate beyond words. In art therapy groups, we often witness how "Creative self-expression in the presence of others fosters group members' abilities to reclaim power and the accompanying responsibilities that come with power" (Moon, p. 127). This reclamation of power happens naturally as people discover their creative voice within the safety of the group. When someone feels seen and accepted in their creative process, it often translates to feeling more empowered in other areas of their life. The group becomes a microcosm where members can practice vulnerability, receive support, and develop confidence in their own capabilities.

Deepening Self-Understanding Through Community

Perhaps one of the most profound aspects of creating in community is how it deepens our relationship with ourselves. Moon articulates this beautifully when he states, "Making art with others in a group setting helps clients attune to themselves to the ultimate concerns of existence and develop self-awareness" (Moon, pp. 161-162). This self-awareness emerges not just through our own creative process, but through witnessing and being witnessed by others. When we create alongside others, we naturally begin to notice our own patterns, preferences, and ways of being. The presence of others acts as a mirror, reflecting aspects of ourselves we might not otherwise see. This reflection isn't about comparison or judgment; rather, it's about deepening our understanding of who we are in relation to others and the world around us.

Conclusion

The power of creative community extends far beyond the act of making art together. It creates ripples that influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and engage with the world. When we create in community, whether in person or across digital spaces, we participate in a tradition as old as humanity itself - coming together to make meaning through creative expression.

The simple act of working alongside others, even in silence––and even virtually––builds a sense of shared purpose and understanding that transcends verbal communication

As we move through the winter months, there's something particularly nurturing about gathering intentionally to create together. It's an opportunity to explore our stories, support each other's growth, and discover new aspects of ourselves through the mirror of community. Whether you're an experienced artist or haven't touched art materials since childhood, there's a place for your voice in creative community.

This winter, I invite you to experience the power of creative community in our 6-week Art-Based Healing Group for Adult Adoptees, starting January 23, 2025. Meeting weekly on Thursdays (9am PST / 12pm EST / 5pm GMT / 6pm CET), we'll create a supportive virtual space where your whole story is welcome. No artistic experience is needed - just an openness to explore and connect through creative expression. Together, we'll discover how making art in community can open new pathways for understanding ourselves and connecting with others.

References

Moon, B. L. (2016). Art-based group therapy: Theory and practice (2nd ed.). Charles C Thomas Publisher.