Illustrator Wendy MacNaughton and author Laurel Braitman explore creativity, vulnerability, and mindfulness in their friendship, founding an Attention Club to inspire others in unleashing their creativity. They discuss the value of embracing imperfections in creative work and the healing power of writing about loss and connection. Various exercises are shared to tap into listeners' creative capacities and foster genuine connections through artistic expression.
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Quick takeaways
Attention Club promotes creativity through presence and focus in art and writing workshops.
Embracing mistakes as pathways to creativity leads to unexpected and profound outcomes.
Deep dives
Formation of Attention Club
Laurel Braitman and Wendy McNaughton, artists and writers, have initiated Attention Club. The club was born from their shared passion for presence and attention in creativity. Combining their respective specialties in drawing and writing, they used these tools to engage participants in their workshop. Through simple exercises in a conference room, they unlocked creativity and encouraged people to focus on unnoticed details.
Teaching Attention Through Drawing and Writing
In their creative practices, Laurel and Wendy emphasize the importance of paying attention. Through drawing prompts and writing exercises, they guide participants to notice subtle details that often go unnoticed. Wendy's approach emphasizes slowing down through drawing, while Laurel uses thoughtful questions to encourage reflection and exploration. By focusing on the process of creation, they help individuals connect with their surroundings and emotions.
Embracing Imperfection and Mistakes
Wendy McNaughton advocates for using imperfection and mistakes as pathways to creativity. By engaging in the process of drawing without preconceived notions, individuals can immerse themselves in the moment and let go of expectations. Wendy believes that mistakes lead to unexpected outcomes that are more magical and profound than planned creations. Embracing the flow state allows for a deeper connection with one's work and the exploration of limitless creative possibilities.
Normalizing Creative Expression
In their work with aspiring creatives, Laurel and Wendy aim to break down barriers and labels associated with creativity. They encourage individuals to recognize their innate storytelling abilities and unique voices. By normalizing the creative process and fostering a supportive environment, they empower people to embrace creativity without self-imposed limitations. Through exercises that promote vulnerability and authenticity, they inspire individuals to explore their creativity freely and confidently.
If you found yourself doodling or writing a lot as a child but then lost the hobby as you grew up, Wendy MacNaughton and Laurel Braitman want to help you recapture your spark. Wendy MacNaughton is an illustrator, the author of “How to Say Goodbye”, and the creator of Draw Together, an art and learning community. Laurel Braitman is a TED Fellow, the author of the memoir “What Looks Like Bravery”, and the founder of Writing Medicine, a community of writing healthcare professionals. Together, Wendy and Laurel created Attention Club, a group of people pursuing creativity by practicing focus with one another. In this episode, Wendy and Laurel join Chris for an in-person chat at the 2024 TED Conference where they discuss the feelings that arise when sharing art with an audience and why embracing mistakes can lead to more meaningful work.