10 Creative Legacy Projects to Preserve Your Artistic Journey

1. Write a Memoir About Your Life
I love a good memoir! Unlike a traditional biography or autobiography, memoirs are lighter, more flexible, and deeply personal. They can capture a single moment, a life-changing experience, or even stretch across decades. Whether you're writing just for yourself, to share with family and friends, or with the intention of publishing, a memoir allows you to tell your story in your own unique way.

2. Create a Time Capsule of Creative Milestones
Not gonna lie.  I’ve always wanted to do a time capsule.  Do people do these in real life?  I guess I’ve only ever seen it on television.  What would you put in it?  Where would you hide it?  An attic?  Maybe bury it in your back yard?  That seems super impractical.  Who would find it? Do you tell someone it’s there? In any case, you can pack your favorite pieces, personal reflections, and art tools into a time capsule to be opened by future generations.

3. Start a Blog to Document Your Process
I just started this, I know—about 20 years late to the party—but hey, better late than never! It’s kind of like a memoir, but online, where you can share whatever you want. For me, it’s about being older, single, and Christian. I don’t have kids, but if I can inspire someone else who's in the same boat, that’s legacy right there!

4. Leave a Collection of Works in an Exhibition or Gallery
Is there a space in your community where you could showcase your work? Think beyond traditional galleries—community centers, libraries, and universities often feature art from local creators. It’s a great way to connect with your community and share your talent! 

5. Publish a Book of Your Creative Work
Not interested in writing a memoir? How about poetry, or compiling some of your favorite photographs? I recently attended a memorial where a friend put together a beautiful collection of paintings, writings, and photography to honor our loved one. It was such a touching tribute, and it inspired me to create something similar for my nieces. What kind of creative project would celebrate you and showcase your unique talents?

6. Give future creatives a glimpse into your thought process by leaving behind notebooks filled with unfinished ideas.
I love this kind of stuff! I would be thrilled if I stumbled across something like this while cleaning out someone’s house, but the thought of someone finding my own unfinished ideas? Horrifying! I tend to brain-dump when I journal, so I probably come across as completely unhinged. You could also include notes and sketches of unfinished ideas—it’s all part of the creative process. 

7. Write a Creative Manifesto
Let’s channel our inner Jerry Maguire and create a manifesto to leave behind for the next generation—a declaration that captures your personal philosophy on creativity and artistic expression. Bonus points if you actively live out the principles in your manifesto, showing future generations how your ideas have come to life. What a powerful legacy to inspire others!

8. Compile Your Thoughts in a Zine or Create an Art Journal
Self-publish a zine or art journals that weave together your reflections on art and creativity with illustrations, poetry, or photography. Consider making a few copies to share with friends and family; it could even serve as a unique Christmas card! It’s a fresh take on the traditional end-of-year letter that many people (not me) enjoy sending out. What a thoughtful way to share your artistic journey!

9. Support your favorite Arts Organization
Become a monthly patron or establish a fund to support future creative projects in your community, ensuring that your legacy continues to nurture and inspire others. Not sure where to start? I’m here to help you figure it out! 😉



10. Curate Playlists That Fueled Your Creativity
I’m a huge fan of a good playlist, and at The Spark, we create a new playlist every month! What songs inspire you? Consider sharing the music that has influenced your art by leaving behind playlists that capture the different creative phases of your life. It’s a beautiful way to reflect on your journey and inspire others!